Better DC connections: PowerPole

Generally for connecting 12V devices I've been using banana plugs but while they're great on the bench, they tend to fall out rather easily and expose live voltage which can lead to some nasty surprises...

WICEN NSW have standardised on Anderson Powerpole connectors and I grabbed a few at the local Jaycar (Product code PT4405).

Here's my little adapter from forks for the screw terminals to PowerPole:



They are a clever design, very easy to solder and construct and feel very sturdy.

They don't stop you from doing bad things in that they aren't keyed in any way, but the colours are clear enough.



The connections are sprung so they press together for a solid electrical contact.



Once plugged in they won't vibrate out. On the sides there are little matching slots so they slide in and lock together to make a pair, which is handy for keeping the wires together too.

Here's my adapter for the bench supply:



Next I plan to add one to the car, probably just from the cigarette lighter socket for now.

Here's a little distribution bus, it's great how the connectors slide together to make a rigid block.

I ordered a commerical board, the RigRunner 4005 just arrived and it looks excellent.



The only bad thing about this system is the choice of Red and Black as the colours. Didn't we switch away from those because of the high proportion of males who are colour blind?