A Journal of our Travels
Anderson PowerPole Connectors
PP15, PP30, PP45
These connectors come in 15A, 30A and 45A versions. The difference is the wire size for the pins.
The Anderson Powerpole series is used extensively for Amateur Radio 12v supplies.
- 15 amp contacts are recommended for 20-16 gauge wire
- 30 amp contacts are recommended for 14-12 gauge wire
- 45 amp contacts are recommended for 10 gauge wire
PP75
This version is larger than the PP15-45 series, and takes the same pins as the SB50 series.
Points to watch
These connectors are recommended for 12V (nominal) use only. Those requiring high-current connectors for other voltages (such as 24V or 48V systems) are urged to source physically incompatible connectors such as the Anderson SB range, to avoid any chance of connecting wrong-voltage devices together.
- Red is to be used for +12v, black for ground. Makes sure they are connected as per diagram.
- Make sure that any power supplies are adequately protected. The Anderson system allows two or more power sources to be connected in parallel (intentionally or otherwise), so make sure your devices can handle this without damage. Batteries must be fused (or have other protection) as close as possible to the positive terminal.
- If you use 75A connectors, make sure you carry adaptors to allow 30A loads to be connected to the larger connectors
- Don't dove-tail multiple connectors together in such a way that it is possible to inadvertently connect a load to two halves of different connector pairs with reverse polarity.
Make sure you terminate wires in the connectors properly. If crimping, be sure all strands are held tightly along the full length of the pin's barrel, and use reducing bushings if necessary on smaller gauge wires. If soldering, keep soldering time to a minimum and make sure no solder flows onto the contact area.
Recommended Usage
The 30A connectors are recommended for most uses, including power connectors on radios, and accessories such as TNCs, computers, small inverters and the like, as well as on power sources such as batteries and power supplies. These are the most commonly used.
The 75A connector is expected to be used where either high current devices are used (such as high-power inverters), or other applications where heavy gauge cable needs to be terminated, such as the heavy-duty 50A or 100A flexible cable sold by various outlets. Such an application could be a long cable run from a 12V battery to a breakout box located in a tent, for example.
Where 75A connectors are used on power sources, it is recommended that one or more 30A connectors also be provided to enable appliances to be connected directly to the power source without needing to find an intervening adaptor cable or breakout box.
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