Issue link: https://te.mouser.com/i/1410848
Naturally, any connector must meet agency requirements for any region of the world in which it is used. Regulatory agencies like UL and CSA in North America and IEC, TUV, and VDE in Europe have requirements to provide for safe application of a product. Selecting components that have already gone through the approval process speeds design and simplifies approval of the final product. Given the global nature of the lighting market, the designer must confirm components meet all regional or local requirements. Being cognizant of the connector agency requirements as well as those needed by the end application is critical to the successful selection and integration of the appropriate connector system. A Quick Checklist The following list gives an overview of the myriad of decisions involved in selecting a connector. It is often very beneficial to consult the product specifications (that define connector performance) as well as application specifications (that define how to use the connector) to confirm the connector meets the intended end application requirements. This checklist can serve as a valuable guide when you discuss the connector requirements with your preferred connector supplier. Agency requirements UL (e.g., UL 1977 often applicable for connectors)? CSA? VDE/TUV? Other? Performance requirements Current? Voltage? Number of positions? Specific centerline? Connector envelope size requirements (height, width, length)? Wire gauge size, type, and range? Hot plugging – capacitive or inductive load? Mating/unmating force desired? Mating direction, vertical or right angle? Make-first ground required? Maximum/minimum temperature (both operating and processing)? Chemical/solvent resistance? Durability, mating cycles? Shock & vibration requirements? Sealing level required. To what IP level? Wire/cable/PCB retention requirements? Footprint compatibility required? PCB mounting: SMT or through-hole, right angle or vertical header? PCB thickness?