How do I match connectors to my existing cables?

Respuesta rápida: Cable matching is critical for reliable connections. Key factors: Cable outer diameter (must fit connector), number of conductors (must match connector pins), conductor size (must handle your current), jacket material (must suit your environment). We offer cable assembly service – send us your cable specs or samples and we’ll match the right connector. Popular cable types: Polyurethane (flexible, ROV), TPE (general purpose), Polyethylene (deep water). Tell us your cable OD and we’ll recommend compatible connectors.

Cable-Connector Matching Guide

Key Matching Factors

1. Cable Outer Diameter (OD)

Most critical dimension! Connector must grip cable properly.

Cable OD RangeCompatible Connector SeriesGland Size
4-6mmMCM miniature seriesSmall
6-10mmMCBH 2-6 pinMedio
10-14mmMCBH 8-12 pinLarge
14-20mmMCBH 14-24 pinExtra Large
20mm+Custom connectorsCustom

2. Number of Conductors

Must match connector pin count (or use fewer pins than available).

  • 2 conductors → 2-pin connector (or larger)
  • 4 conductors → 4-pin connector (or larger)
  • Cannot use 6-conductor cable with 4-pin connector (waste)
  • Can use 4-conductor cable with 6-pin connector (2 pins unused)

3. Conductor Size (Wire Gauge)

Must handle your current without overheating.

Wire Gauge (AWG)Max CurrentIdeal para
22 AWG3ASignal, low power
20 AWG5ASignal, sensors
18 AWG10AControl, medium power
16 AWG15APower, thrusters (small)
14 AWG20APower, thrusters (medium)
12 AWG30AHigh power
10 AWG40AVery high power

4. Jacket Material

Must suit your environment.

Jacket MaterialIdeal paraTemperaturaFlexibility
Polyurethane (PUR)ROV, high flexDe -40 °C a +80 °CExcelente
TPEMarina en general-30°C to +70°CMuy bien
Polyethylene (PE)Deep water, static-50°C to +60°CBien
PVCFreshwater, budget-15°C to +60°CFeria
NeopreneOil & gas-40°C to +90°CBien

Cable Assembly Service

Don’t want to match yourself? We’ll do it for you!

Option 1: Send Us Your Cable

  1. Ship 1-2 meters of your cable to us
  2. We measure and identify specifications
  3. We recommend compatible connectors
  4. We can assemble connectors for you

Option 2: Tell Us Your Specs

Email us:

  • Cable outer diameter (mm)
  • Number of conductors
  • Conductor size (AWG or mm²)
  • Jacket material (if known)
  • Application (ROV, sensor, etc.)

We’ll recommend the right connector.

Option 3: Buy Complete Assembly

We sell pre-assembled cable assemblies:

  • Connector already attached
  • Pressure tested
  • Ready to use
  • Custom lengths available

Popular Cable Types for Underwater Use

ROV Tether Cable

  • Construction: Multiple conductors + strength members
  • Jacket: Polyurethane (high flex, abrasion resistant)
  • OD: Typically 8-15mm
  • Conector: MCBH series with appropriate gland

Sensor Cable

  • Construction: 2-8 conductors, often shielded
  • Jacket: TPE or polyurethane
  • OD: Typically 4-8mm
  • Conector: MCM or MCBH series

Power Cable

  • Construction: 2-4 large conductors
  • Jacket: Neoprene or polyurethane
  • OD: Typically 10-20mm
  • Conector: High-current MCBH series

Ethernet Cable (Underwater)

  • Construction: 4 twisted pairs + drain wire
  • Jacket: Polyurethane
  • OD: Typically 6-10mm
  • Conector: Ethernet-compatible underwater connector

Cable Preparation Tips

For Connector Installation

  1. Strip outer jacket: Carefully, don’t nick conductors
  2. Prepare conductors: Strip to correct length
  3. Tin conductors: Solder tip for easier insertion
  4. Insert into connector: Follow pinout diagram
  5. Pot/seal: Use epoxy or potting compound
  6. Assemble connector: Follow torque specifications

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Cable OD too small (won’t seal properly)
  • ❌ Cable OD too large (won’t fit in connector)
  • ❌ Conductors too large for contacts
  • ❌ Wrong stripping length
  • ❌ Damaged conductor insulation
  • ❌ Inadequate potting/sealing

Need Help?

Cable matching can be tricky. We’re here to help:

  • 📧 Email: sales@hysfsubsea.com
  • 📎 Attach: Cable spec sheet or photo
  • 📏 Include: Cable OD measurement (most important!)
  • ⚡ Specify: Current/voltage requirements

Related: Especificaciones técnicas | Cable Assemblies

Need cable matching help? Email sales@hysfsubsea.com with your cable details.

Imagen de John Zhang

John Zhang

(Director general y ingeniero jefe)
Correo electrónico: info@hysfsubsea.com
Con más de 15 años de experiencia en tecnología de interconexión submarina, dirijo el equipo de I+D de HYSF en el diseño de soluciones de alta presión (60 MPa). Mi objetivo es garantizar la fiabilidad sin fugas para los ROV, los AUV y la instrumentación marina. Superviso personalmente la validación de nuestros prototipos de conectores personalizados.

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Soluciones probadas en el campo

Una muestra de nuestras exitosas colaboraciones con socios globales en los campos de la robótica marina, la energía y la investigación. Cada proyecto refleja nuestro compromiso con la integridad sin fugas y la confiabilidad operativa.

Comience su proyecto submarino con HYSF

Tanto si necesita un presupuesto rápido para conectores estándar como si necesita un conjunto de cables personalizado complejo, nuestro equipo de ingenieros está listo para ayudarle. Le daremos una respuesta técnica en un plazo de 12 horas.

John Zhang

Director general

Jason Liu
Kevin Wang
Cindy Chen
Lily Li
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