Encoder Cables

[JavaDog]

So, the Servos I bought have US-Digital E2 encoders on them. It was recommended that I use a 10ft CA-3934 cable from US-Digital to connect these up.

The 10ft cables would come out to $13 a cable! What a rip-off!

I'm wondering what everyone else uses to connect up their Encoders? Can I just by the AMP connectors and wire them up with CAT5?

[Al_The_Man]

Do not use unshielded or single strand cable, you could go with Belden 9536 its about 25c/ft.
Al.

[JavaDog]

Originally Posted by Al_The_Man Do not use unshielded or single strand cable, you could go with Belden 9536 its about 25c/ft. Al.

Nice! Looks like that is 24awg. I'll order myself a spool of that!

Is it just me, or is the 5pin AMP connector the same thing that is used on a PC CDROM audio cable??

[Al_The_Man]

Originally Posted by JavaDog the same thing that is used on a PC CDROM audio cable??

I believe those in the link have square pins.
EDIT.I did'nt notice the Audio cable, If those are square you may be lucky depending on the spacing
Al.

[JavaDog]

Originally Posted by Al_The_Man I believe those in the link have square pins. EDIT.I did'nt notice the Audio cable, If those are square you may be lucky depending on the spacing Al.

I have dozens of the CDROM audio style connectors laying around. I will check the fit tonight. Hopefully they will work.

I just ordered that cable, thanks Al!

[Bloy2004]

I could be wrong but the CD audio connectors are 4-pin...you will need 5-pin connectors for the encoders even though you are only using 4 of the five pins..... you will need the two outside pins on the encoder.

[JavaDog]

Originally Posted by Bloy2004 I could be wrong but the CD audio connectors are 4-pin...you will need 5-pin connectors for the encoders even though you are only using 4 of the five pins..... you will need the two outside pins on the encoder.

Yeah, you are right. Oh well...

I refuse to buy the connectors from US-Digital - they overcharge. Pretty sure Mouser will have them...

[Bloy2004]

heres a pic of Digi-key
(conn recept) A19033-nd MTA100 connector that I use for my encoders

These require only "press-fit" for installing the wires...although I took out each individual pin connector and soldered on the wires, then making sure the cable was secured to the motor with ties to prevent failure. Others have said that they have had excellent results with just pressing in the wires.

NOTE there are many types of connectors....the MTA 100 just means that the pin spacing is .1" and style ...I am believing

[JavaDog]

Ooo! That is almost identical to what US Digital sells - and a hell of a lot cheaper too!

You've used these with the E2 encoders? Have to see if they make a 24awg version...

[Bloy2004]

I stuffed the 24 into them with a small flat-blade screwdriver ground even thinner so the as not to relieve the pressure on the clips, on connectors I used with the "press-fit" technique....some of them on the Schumate DRO-350 digital readout kit, and on some other encoders I've been testing on other motors. they should work...

[JavaDog]

Originally Posted by Bloy2004 they should work...

We'll find out soon enough! I just ordered them...

[Al_The_Man]

IMHO those connectors qualify for the title of worst type of connector ever dreamed up.
I hate them with a passion. If you anticipate doing a few connections a hand tool is a great asset, about $5.00 http://www.itwdisty.com/downloads/MASCON_tooling.pdf
Look under the MRT one otherwise it is a royal pain to make sure the connection is good.
Al