[sdiy] a cable with 50+ pin connectors ?

[Neil Johnson]

Paul Maddox wrote:
> JH,
>
> > Are there front panel mount IDC connectors ?
>
> ahh, sorry missed that bit..
> No, but you can get 50way centronics that are panel mounted and have IDC
> 'crimps' for connecting directly to IDC cable

Sorry to be pedantic here, but IDC is a means of binding wires to a given
connector: "Insulation Displacement Connection".  So there are IDC
D-connectors, IDC Centronics-style connectors, IDC headers, even standard
telephone connections in streetside boxes are IDC.  You can even get IDC
mains plugs (the clamp-style).

In this instance I would go with 50-way IDC Centronics connectors (as used
by SCSI-I) and use SCSI-I cables as recommended by Paul.

It also depends on how many times you expect to make/break the connection.
Connectors have a specified number of guaranteed connections, and after
that they _can_ start to become dodgy.  Generally, the more you pay the
more times the manufacturer guarantees reliable connection.  Aim for
gold-plated if you can afford it.

Neil

--
Neil Johnson :: Computer Laboratory :: University of Cambridge ::
http://www.njohnson.co.uk          http://www.cl.cam.ac.uk/~nej22
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