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Title: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on July 05, 2020, 12:25:55 AM
Hey guys,
Like many of you, I've been building my own cables for my rigs for some time, however I'm trying to find a good source for multipin connectors so that I can custom make my own for my rigs.

Some of the companies Ive searched for all seem to be in Europe or UK. Is there a site that you guys recommend that sells and supplies here in the states? Looking for multicore cable, panel mount 54 pole connectors (16ch) male and female connectors..

Thanks in advance,
-Sam
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Rick Powell on July 05, 2020, 04:53:48 AM
Quote from: Sam Costa on July 05, 2020, 12:25:55 AM
Hey guys,
Like many of you, I've been building my own cables for my rigs for some time, however I'm trying to find a good source for multipin connectors so that I can custom make my own for my rigs.

Some of the companies Ive searched for all seem to be in Europe or UK. Is there a site that you guys recommend that sells and supplies here in the states? Looking for multicore cable, panel mount 54 pole connectors (16ch) male and female connectors..

Thanks in advance,
-Sam

www.markertek.com
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Brian Bolly on July 05, 2020, 09:36:11 AM
First, what type/kind of connector do you want to use?  There are benefits and detractors to each. 

You mentioned 16 channels - that puts you into most commonly either 61-pin Whirlwind W2 or compatible, or a 54-pin from Amphenol (MP-41 series), Link, Syntax, or Ten47.  Those are the ones that I can think of offhand, there's probably more.

For US distributors, any one of the cable manufacturers (Whirlwind, CBI, Entertainment Manufacturing, Rapco, etc) can get these connectors.  So if you know someone who is a dealer, you can get the connectors.  And if you don't you can call the manufacturer directly and they'll point you in the right direction - I know Link has a US office, but you can get any of those easily in the US. 

Whichever connector you go with, I recommend investing in the proper crimp tool (most likely a DMC with the correct head) and crimping the multipin instead of soldering if the option is available.  Years ago Dr Don Pearson had a good article on why crimping multipins was a more long-term reliable solution, but I can't seem to find it at the moment.

As for cable, do you want IS, IJIS, what?  How flexible?  Pretty much everyone makes bulk multipair, so it comes down to what you want, type of jacket, and how much you're willing to pay.  For fanouts, I like using the individual wires and adding bulk shrink at the base where it hits the multipin strain relief instead of taking a chunk of multipair and shrinking each line.  Entertainment Mfg has some good cable for this, but I can't find the part number at the moment.

Word of advice: do things like add some extra (unshrunk) clear shrink to cables to add labels later, along with techflex on fanouts, etc.  It's worth the couple extra bucks to do it right now than wish you'd done it later.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: James Paul on July 05, 2020, 01:09:45 PM
https://www.emfgrp.com/
https://www.linkusa-inc.com/
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on July 05, 2020, 02:57:39 PM
Quote from: Brian Bolly on July 05, 2020, 09:36:11 AM
First, what type/kind of connector do you want to use?  There are benefits and detractors to each. 

You mentioned 16 channels - that puts you into most commonly either 61-pin Whirlwind W2 or compatible, or a 54-pin from Amphenol (MP-41 series), Link, Syntax, or Ten47.  Those are the ones that I can think of offhand, there's probably more.


Hi Brian,
Thanks for the reply. Correct, it's for one of my digital rack consoles and I would need the 54 pole/pin setups.

I prefer going with a twist lock connector like the LK series. (I use to use EDAC moons ago and didn't care for them) and I too prefer going with a crimping style connector for the pins. I like to solder, but not that much! ;)

I would like the multicore cable to be somewhat flexible, enough that it will allow me to easily over/under and store in side the rack when I'm done. 50'ft worth and have it hard wired to the box end of the snake, no need for it to disconnect at that location.

I've done my fair share of cable making with XLR, powercon, siamese, so having Techflex is a must for me with the added dual adhesive shrink tube. :)

Thanks for the info, I appreciate it.
-Sam
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Luis_Marquez on July 05, 2020, 05:37:14 PM
www.redco.com carries amphenol multi pin. I have not used this brand but like you, had used Edac and itt canon for light duty.
Entertainment metals now EMG carries large and small Ramlatch brand and also 12ch 37 pin cpc connectors if you can split those 16channels for smaller gigs. They have a slick back shell available in different colors and is easy to assemble/service.

You could also try Dave rat at ratsound. I believe they are in the west coast
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Brian Bolly on July 06, 2020, 03:46:14 AM
So you are familiar with all the ills that are EDAC connectors.   :D

Before the current world state of affairs we went down the rabbit hole of looking at a couple new 32 channel splits for M32 setups and the like, and had settled on one with Syntax SVK connectors (I have a special disdain for the MASS connector).  I checked out the tooling for Syntax, and it is all the standard Daniels crimp tool setup:  Daniels M22520/1-01 crimper with the M22520/1-05 crimp head.  It's the same tool Whirlwind and Amphenol use, and likely Link as well, but I suspect the crimp head may be slightly different for each manufacturer.  As far as specs on each:
I think Syntax is the least expensive of the bunch, but give Entertainment Mfg a call - they will sell the parts, as well as the full systems. They also have multipair that has good specs, is decently flexible and easy to terminate, but I would cross reference with what Redco carries as well.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Helge A Bentsen on July 06, 2020, 04:48:56 AM
I don't know how your marked is, but in my area LK37 is the only connector people use. So everybody is setting up their stage racks, splitters, stage boxes etc. with LK37.
I use the ones from Link, never had any issues with them.

Might be worth looking around your area and see if cross rental compatibility is something worth considering.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on July 09, 2020, 11:48:19 PM
Quote from: Helge A Bentsen on July 06, 2020, 04:48:56 AM
I don't know how your marked is, but in my area LK37 is the only connector people use. So everybody is setting up their stage racks, splitters, stage boxes etc. with LK37.
I use the ones from Link, never had any issues with them.

Might be worth looking around your area and see if cross rental compatibility is something worth considering.

Thanks for all your help fellas. Was able to source a supplier for LK37 connectors and tools required (DMC AK8) all for a fairly good price.
Looking forward to making my multipins. :)
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Luis_Marquez on July 11, 2020, 10:13:08 AM
Quote from: Sam Costa on July 09, 2020, 11:48:19 PM
Thanks for all your help fellas. Was able to source a supplier for LK37 connectors and tools required (DMC AK8) all for a fairly good price.
Looking forward to making my multipins. :)

Sam

I’m interested. Can you do a show n tell?
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on July 13, 2020, 02:40:43 PM
Quote from: Luis_Marquez on July 11, 2020, 10:13:08 AM
Sam

I’m interested. Can you do a show n tell?

Sure can. Once I get all my components in the coming week.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Mark Scrivener on July 14, 2020, 05:41:28 AM
I'm particularly interested in proper crimp tools at "a good price". The Amp crimp tool is over $500 on Redco. Add a few hundred more to the for the pin extractor tool (which you are bound to need). For us small guys who would like to connect a few racks with multi pin setups, the tooling cost approaches or even exceeds that of the cable and connectors.

BTW - All of the multipin connectors listed appear quite similar to the "MS" industrial/military multipin connectors that have been around for decades. Amphenol has a ton of different series for circular multipin connectors, with wildly different price points for the same pin count. Would be nice to better understand the differences. I can find Ampehnol 37 pin circular connectors anywhere from $13 to well over $100.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on July 16, 2020, 10:54:47 AM
Quote from: Mark Scrivener on July 14, 2020, 05:41:28 AM
I'm particularly interested in proper crimp tools at "a good price". The Amp crimp tool is over $500 on Redco. Add a few hundred more to the for the pin extractor tool (which you are bound to need). For us small guys who would like to connect a few racks with multi pin setups, the tooling cost approaches or even exceeds that of the cable and connectors.

BTW - All of the multipin connectors listed appear quite similar to the "MS" industrial/military multipin connectors that have been around for decades. Amphenol has a ton of different series for circular multipin connectors, with wildly different price points for the same pin count. Would be nice to better understand the differences. I can find Ampehnol 37 pin circular connectors anywhere from $13 to well over $100.

Mark, I contacted several different suppliers and received a call from a good friend of mine who has A Daniels DMC AK8 Crimping and it came with 2 Turrets for proper pin and crimping sizes. I purchased that for $190 shipped, to me that’s a good price and it’s the proper crimping tool I need for my projects.

The company I ended up buying my cable mount and panel mount multipin connectors (LK37) an extra turret, positioner, insert tool, extraction tool, pins, was from LINK USA.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 04, 2020, 09:48:39 PM
Quote from: Luis_Marquez on July 11, 2020, 10:13:08 AM
Sam

I’m interested. Can you do a show n tell?

So just a quick update, I got the parts ordered and just waiting on one more panel male connector (LK57) to come in sometime tomorrow but I have the whip just about finished that is coming from my soundcraft Ui24r nearly completed and ready to be installed and also just finished installing the cable mount on the Perseus 16 channel snake that I had ordered with a blunt end.

I’ll update with finished photos when it’s all complete here soon.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 04, 2020, 10:00:33 PM
Quote from: Sam Costa on August 04, 2020, 09:48:39 PM
So just a quick update, I got the parts ordered and just waiting on one more panel male connector (LK57) to come in sometime tomorrow but I have the whip just about finished that is coming from my soundcraft Ui24r nearly completed and ready to be installed and also just finished installing the cable mount on the Perseus 16 channel snake that I had ordered with a blunt end.

I’ll update with finished photos when it’s all complete here soon.


Here are some photos along the way of the box end to the multi-pin LK54

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/8F0E4C20_2B1D_4FD4_B18E_982E81F98BC3_IMG_4693.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/761412d1-d8a8-4648-92d7-3bb01fab8013)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/EB82F49E_FCF0_4587_9699_979C29EFF044_IMG_4696.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/8dc0b694-0ef7-4afc-8a5d-fc7027cc734f)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/F563687E_8993_45DB_8889_1885552F558C_IMG_4698.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/31d5b32f-8dc2-477c-a8a1-880ebb317c1d)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/85D24F7F_C909_44D7_975E_8AB0A5A9114F_IMG_4692.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/1dfc1434-66c6-4a71-b2ab-95f0639f7bac)


And here are some of the whip I made and ready for install when the Panel Mount comes in tomorrow:

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/7822FE37_C1F2_459E_91B9_C483395B2F08_FullSizeRender.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/22291f80-a411-4910-b29e-d6310a87c486)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/4CCDEB75_111B_4D49_BC0D_EEFA06D397C5_FullSizeRender.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/2dd11961-eebf-4344-9433-2dbea9504b19)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/C04B76D4_5BA7_40E9_A21E_8065BAE4E306_FullSizeRender.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/883772b5-ad92-4e3f-a571-3b2f1a3dff47)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/008D952A_60C8_409C_BAF1_D2BEB8C09825_FullSizeRender.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/dfddcdf0-3204-4194-8eff-4bdca27e7de5)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/C247ED34_E6DD_4CAE_A86D_0BE2F898CE89_FullSizeRender.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/e4598888-87f5-46b4-88f3-9923ecdac7b4)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/C1ADBFCF_DFEC_4739_AE2F_3A326432B8DE_FullSizeRender.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/9ad2feb6-4f1a-421e-9e6f-4f9d55335572)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/E2A033CE_54A2_4662_A792_BDA66A95027E_FullSizeRender.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/695ce9f3-0d2b-49e2-bc6c-5ae3147b3650)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/B13C6514_E706_4CF6_842F_E29822D3FFFA_FullSizeRender.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/ca0660d1-ef9c-4d58-bf46-ebf6a7a9d114)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/217F1CA7_9F4E_46B2_8E31_636544C21169_IMG_4746.HEIC?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/fb6b4df9-2c3b-4b1c-a7f1-1c16839d9bc1)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/E66C2A17_F314_456F_B49E_C57C271E0DBD_FullSizeRender.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/43b57017-2a89-4923-a080-584f78f58d42)
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Mark Scrivener on August 05, 2020, 01:13:00 AM
Curious about your setup...

You have 4 PSM300 transmitters, each of which can do a stereo mix or two mono mixes, but you only have 4 aux sends going to them (so a mono signal to each). If you only want 4 mono mixes, why not set your receivers up for mono, and set to use either the left or right channel (but play it in both ear buds as mono)? I've done this many times to get 4 mono mixes with only 2 PSM300 transmitters.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 05, 2020, 11:02:32 AM
Quote from: Mark Scrivener on August 05, 2020, 01:13:00 AM
Curious about your setup...

You have 4 PSM300 transmitters, each of which can do a stereo mix or two mono mixes, but you only have 4 aux sends going to them (so a mono signal to each). If you only want 4 mono mixes, why not set your receivers up for mono, and set to use either the left or right channel (but play it in both ear buds as mono)? I've done this many times to get 4 mono mixes with only 2 PSM300 transmitters.

Hi Mark, I do have them setup in stereo for certain bands/artists. What you dont see is another whip I have setup that allows for stereo mix. Other times I have 3-4 stage wedges and the rest of the band on ears and they don’t mind running 4 separate Mono signals because every band member would like their "own mix"
I try and make it as flexible as possible for my clients.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 08, 2020, 01:18:39 AM
Quote from: Luis_Marquez on July 11, 2020, 10:13:08 AM
Sam

I’m interested. Can you do a show n tell?

Ok. Finally got everything buttoned up this evening with my Multi pin connectors.
Planning on making a few more with my other systems and snakes. It was a lot of fun and look forward to making some for other guys as well.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/B56A2A1D_7CCA_4235_99BF_169BC24B4D7C_FullSizeRender.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/a/c14ea8bb-21a4-4b17-80ef-b0623eba3a3c/p/e25d1f0e-ba67-4442-9df7-d5d5504dce9b)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/CF788582_CBCA_46C9_BA88_EAB647FED0BA_FullSizeRender.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/a/c14ea8bb-21a4-4b17-80ef-b0623eba3a3c/p/a5fe72ad-3a4a-48fe-b166-615ee6d914df)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/CD09697F_5803_42CE_9A89_7DBCE5017AB4_FullSizeRender.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/a/c14ea8bb-21a4-4b17-80ef-b0623eba3a3c/p/cc15fff7-a104-4af6-bea8-b8f08e9e1a84)

Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Scott Holtzman on August 08, 2020, 05:24:35 AM
Quote from: Sam Costa on August 08, 2020, 01:18:39 AM
Ok. Finally got everything buttoned up this evening with my Multi pin connectors.
Planning on making a few more with my other systems and snakes. It was a lot of fun and look forward to making some for other guys as well.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/B56A2A1D_7CCA_4235_99BF_169BC24B4D7C_FullSizeRender.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/a/c14ea8bb-21a4-4b17-80ef-b0623eba3a3c/p/e25d1f0e-ba67-4442-9df7-d5d5504dce9b)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/CF788582_CBCA_46C9_BA88_EAB647FED0BA_FullSizeRender.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/a/c14ea8bb-21a4-4b17-80ef-b0623eba3a3c/p/a5fe72ad-3a4a-48fe-b166-615ee6d914df)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/CD09697F_5803_42CE_9A89_7DBCE5017AB4_FullSizeRender.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/a/c14ea8bb-21a4-4b17-80ef-b0623eba3a3c/p/cc15fff7-a104-4af6-bea8-b8f08e9e1a84)


Don't let untrained hands put that rig together.  While not as delicate as Elco connectors the untrained can wreck that in a heartbeat.



Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Alec Spence on August 08, 2020, 10:35:43 AM
Quote from: Sam Costa on August 08, 2020, 01:18:39 AM
Ok. Finally got everything buttoned up this evening with my Multi pin connectors.
Planning on making a few more with my other systems and snakes. It was a lot of fun and look forward to making some for other guys as well.
Tidy job, though it does seem a little ironic to buy a cheap(ish) remote lunchbox mixer and then spend at least as much again on a top quality detachable snake, when half the point of this kind of mixer is to put it on stage and avoid a snake...
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 08, 2020, 11:05:18 AM
Quote from: Alec Spence on August 08, 2020, 10:35:43 AM
Tidy job, though it does seem a little ironic to buy a cheap(ish) remote lunchbox mixer and then spend at least as much again on a top quality detachable snake, when half the point of this kind of mixer is to put it on stage and avoid a snake...

Thanks, but for my applications I dont mind spending the money on something that's ultimately going to give me a quicker and cleaner setup/strike. I like a clean stage and having several "lunchbox mixers" in my arsenal I've had my fair share of messy looking spaghetti on stage because of the front panel designs.
I really enjoy expanding my knowledge on making my own cabling and if I can make it for less than what can be purchased out there from places like Whirlwind, proco, etc, and able to help out other engineers by selling them the same product for less, then I've done my part in helping out a fellow brother..  :)

Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 08, 2020, 11:07:46 AM
Quote from: Scott Holtzman on August 08, 2020, 05:24:35 AM

Don't let untrained hands put that rig together.  While not as delicate as Elco connectors the untrained can wreck that in a heartbeat.

NOBODY is touching this particular rig expect for me :)
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Luis_Marquez on August 08, 2020, 03:27:55 PM
Great work Sam! Years ago, I did a project similar to what you have done and for the same reasons. One man operator but wanted a faster setup/ tear down, cleaner stage. I have my project in a box somewhere. Mine is loaded with ITT canon multi pin and have thinking of changing over to CPC 37 pin connectors. One item I added on the milti pin and fan outs sides was a hanger grip on each end. Then would strap or bungy cord to solid case. Countless times someone would walk up stepping on the multi core cable. Guaranteed cable, pins or damaged connectors would have resulted.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 10, 2020, 06:12:49 PM
Quote from: Luis_Marquez on August 08, 2020, 03:27:55 PM
Great work Sam! Years ago, I did a project similar to what you have done and for the same reasons. One man operator but wanted a faster setup/ tear down, cleaner stage. I have my project in a box somewhere. Mine is loaded with ITT canon multi pin and have thinking of changing over to CPC 37 pin connectors. One item I added on the milti pin and fan outs sides was a hanger grip on each end. Then would strap or bungy cord to solid case. Countless times someone would walk up stepping on the multi core cable. Guaranteed cable, pins or damaged connectors would have resulted.

Thank man, I appreciate it. I'm about to actually make a few more multipin connectors for a few guys (1 from here, 2 locally)

I can see that being a promblem with someone damaging it had you not done that.. the good thing about my application is that the connector is mounted on the back and that never gets in any cross traffic, on or off stage so that won't be an issue.

Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Tim McCulloch on August 10, 2020, 06:52:12 PM
Quote from: Sam Costa on August 10, 2020, 06:12:49 PM
Thank man, I appreciate it. I'm about to actually make a few more multipin connectors for a few guys (1 from here, 2 locally)

I can see that being a promblem with someone damaging it had you not done that.. the good thing about my application is that the connector is mounted on the back and that never gets in any cross traffic, on or off stage so that won't be an issue.

Sure, Sam... until it does.  Use a clove hitch and put a piece of tie line about 18" from the multi, and use that to tie the cable up to a rack handle.  Trust me.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Jay Marr on August 10, 2020, 09:24:02 PM
Quote from: Tim McCulloch on August 10, 2020, 06:52:12 PM
Sure, Sam... until it does.  Use a clove hitch and put a piece of tie line about 18" from the multi, and use that to tie the cable up to a rack handle.  Trust me.

Sounds like you've met my drummer.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Tim McCulloch on August 10, 2020, 10:44:07 PM
Quote from: Jay Marr on August 10, 2020, 09:24:02 PM
Sounds like you've met my drummer.

Yep.  Your drummer, stagehands, me... it's easy to mess up.

The multi-pin is now a mission critical item.  If it fails Sam will need to have a stagebox to fanout snake in a case somewhere.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 10, 2020, 11:37:45 PM
Quote from: Tim McCulloch on August 10, 2020, 06:52:12 PM
Sure, Sam... until it does.  Use a clove hitch and put a piece of tie line about 18" from the multi, and use that to tie the cable up to a rack handle.  Trust me.

NOTED! :)  Thanks for the heads up Tim.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Chris Hindle on August 11, 2020, 03:13:30 PM
Quote from: Sam Costa on August 10, 2020, 06:12:49 PM
......... the good thing about my application is that the connector is mounted on the back and that never gets in any cross traffic, on or off stage so that won't be an issue.
Famous last words.........
Make it idiot proof, and God comes out with an improroved model idiot.
Some day, you'll have to put a rack in a not so great position.
Chris.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Dan Mortensen on August 11, 2020, 03:36:53 PM
Quote from: Sam Costa on August 10, 2020, 11:37:45 PM
NOTED! :)  Thanks for the heads up Tim.

Yes. Think about a situation where somebody is standing on your cable 10' or so away from the rack, or there's an amp or something on the cable holding it down. Now imagine somebody else walking by and catching their foot on the the cable and yanking. Without a strain relief, what's going to happen to that rack mounted multipin connector?

Even with a strain relief, what's going to happen to the rack if the strain relief's connection point is up on top of a second rack, like in your picture?

Answer those questions in a way that your multipin and the gear in the rack it's in all survives, and your system'll be much more long-lived than if you fail to answer them.

(Hint: an answer is to have the strain relief connection point at the bottom rack, not the top one. That way you won't pull the top rack off/over. There may be more answers, too.)
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 11, 2020, 04:12:53 PM
Quote from: Dan Mortensen on August 11, 2020, 03:36:53 PM
Yes. Think about a situation where somebody is standing on your cable 10' or so away from the rack, or there's an amp or something on the cable holding it down. Now imagine somebody else walking by and catching their foot on the the cable and yanking. Without a strain relief, what's going to happen to that rack mounted multipin connector?

Even with a strain relief, what's going to happen to the rack if the strain relief's connection point is up on top of a second rack, like in your picture?

Answer those questions in a way that your multipin and the gear in the rack it's in all survives, and your system'll be much more long-lived than if you fail to answer them.

(Hint: an answer is to have the strain relief connection point at the bottom rack, not the top one. That way you won't pull the top rack off/over. There may be more answers, too.)

Dan, I appreciate the reply, but I'll explain as this will be a NON issue for me. First in all my years of engineering and setup sound and stages I've never had anyone ever yank a cable from it's fixed location (ie speakon, electrical, xlr, etc) especially a multicore cable, the reason for this is I never EVER leave home without my gaff and carpet to place over the cabling to not only minimize on such mishaps of someones foot accidentally getting caught on the cable or otherwise, it doesn't happen on my stages. Third, the top case is fixed to the bottom case which houses all my patch cabling, connectors, splitters, misc cables, etc, it's heavy and I always setup my digital racks right behind the FOH speakers so that it's not only in the most secure place but also a location that none of the musicians on stage ever go to or people in general. If they are not setup directly behind the FOH audio then it is placed behind a stage near a corner or off to the side where nobody is allowed and that only I have access to and the cables all follow behind the stage to their locations for the musicians. I keep a pretty tidy stage. I understand your saying though..

Example:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/2D2C23A8_AB27_40EB_A473_1C730A26DAEE_IMG_4869.JPG?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/b4015049-dade-4e7e-9ae8-078dbcbb32b3)

All cabling strung across the stage, what you dont see here is that after this I placed Safcord carpet on top of those wedge siamese cables, that was done after this photo. This particular event the digital rack (prior to the multipin project was done) was placed right behind the subs and nobody was allowed in that area expect for me and the musicins:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/a136/fullforcesound/.highres/D4C69234-00D1-4E9C-9775-20C0DBC9EA19_zpstw48abko.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/9d4cd091-df09-4b81-9bee-451835a10520)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/a136/fullforcesound/.highres/BDE81DAA-21AE-4C8D-93D2-0A2B7050B4DD_zps2dmwtd85.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/c1963352-9652-438a-82b2-2fad0979ac4e)
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Scott Holtzman on August 12, 2020, 02:14:09 AM
Quote from: Sam Costa on August 11, 2020, 04:12:53 PM
Dan, I appreciate the reply, but I'll explain as this will be a NON issue for me. First in all my years of engineering and setup sound and stages I've never had anyone ever yank a cable from it's fixed location (ie speakon, electrical, xlr, etc) especially a multicore cable, the reason for this is I never EVER leave home without my gaff and carpet to place over the cabling to not only minimize on such mishaps of someones foot accidentally getting caught on the cable or otherwise, it doesn't happen on my stages. Third, the top case is fixed to the bottom case which houses all my patch cabling, connectors, splitters, misc cables, etc, it's heavy and I always setup my digital racks right behind the FOH speakers so that it's not only in the most secure place but also a location that none of the musicians on stage ever go to or people in general. If they are not setup directly behind the FOH audio then it is placed behind a stage near a corner or off to the side where nobody is allowed and that only I have access to and the cables all follow behind the stage to their locations for the musicians. I keep a pretty tidy stage. I understand your saying though..

Example:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a136/fullforcesound/2D2C23A8_AB27_40EB_A473_1C730A26DAEE_IMG_4869.JPG?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/b4015049-dade-4e7e-9ae8-078dbcbb32b3)

All cabling strung across the stage, what you dont see here is that after this I placed Safcord carpet on top of those wedge siamese cables, that was done after this photo. This particular event the digital rack (prior to the multipin project was done) was placed right behind the subs and nobody was allowed in that area expect for me and the musicins:
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/a136/fullforcesound/.highres/D4C69234-00D1-4E9C-9775-20C0DBC9EA19_zpstw48abko.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/9d4cd091-df09-4b81-9bee-451835a10520)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/albums/a136/fullforcesound/.highres/BDE81DAA-21AE-4C8D-93D2-0A2B7050B4DD_zps2dmwtd85.jpg) (https://app.photobucket.com/u/fullforcesound/p/c1963352-9652-438a-82b2-2fad0979ac4e)


You set a neat stage, nice job.  Is that your stage?
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 12, 2020, 10:46:37 AM
Quote from: Scott Holtzman on August 12, 2020, 02:14:09 AM

You set a neat stage, nice job.  Is that your stage?

Thanks Scott.
The first photo is my stage, the stage on the second and third photos was supplied by the Fairmont in San Jose.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Caleb Dueck on August 12, 2020, 06:09:44 PM
Quote from: Scott Holtzman on August 12, 2020, 02:14:09 AM
You set a neat stage, nice job.

Agreed, congrats. 
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: James Paul on August 12, 2020, 06:25:53 PM
Congrats Sam on your relatively rapid and successful endeavor. Nice and tidy rack and stage pics.
A comment and subsequent question for the community at large inspired by your mult-ipin assemblies.
The in-line female to chassis male connectors of your build would be the reverse of the long held established convention of signal flow path of gender discreet connectors of the LK, W1/W2, ITT CANNON, JAE or DDK variants. WW MASS aside, curious as to what and how others round about here practice and preach in regards to gender. Of mulit-pin assemblies of course. wink wink
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Sam Costa on August 13, 2020, 02:00:59 PM
Quote from: Caleb Dueck on August 12, 2020, 06:09:44 PM
Agreed, congrats.

Thanks man. Appreciate it.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Brian Bolly on August 13, 2020, 03:27:36 PM
Quote from: James Paul on August 12, 2020, 06:25:53 PM
The in-line female to chassis male connectors of your build would be the reverse of the long held established convention of signal flow path of gender discreet connectors of the LK, W1/W2, ITT CANNON, JAE or DDK variants. WW MASS aside, curious as to what and how others round about here practice and preach in regards to gender. Of mulit-pin assemblies of course. wink wink

The only one I know of whose "standard" is non-conforming as well is Ramlatch (Ramtech, also these days Entertainment Manufacturing Group, also formerly for a hot minute Six-2).  On those the factory "standard" is panel mount females, line mount males.  I know some companies follow differently for these connectors, but each to his/her own.

Sidebar question/non-sequitur: does anyone know if Ramtech is still in biz, or if Rambo is living out the retirement life on the beach?  I figured all that stuff was built by EMFG these days, but his website(s) is/are still around, although not updated in the last 8+ years.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Riley Casey on August 13, 2020, 03:45:54 PM
I've had an email advert from Rambo in the last six months under the Ramtech flag so he's still soliciting business under that name. He hadn't toned down the cheesy motorcycle parts shop advertising motif it seems.

Quote from: Brian Bolly on August 13, 2020, 03:27:36 PM

Sidebar question/non-sequitur: does anyone know if Ramtech is still in biz, or if Rambo is living out the retirement life on the beach?  I figured all that stuff was built by EMFG these days, but his website(s) is/are still around, although not updated in the last 8+ years.
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: John Sulek on August 14, 2020, 12:02:10 PM
Quote from: Brian Bolly on August 13, 2020, 03:27:36 PM
Sidebar question/non-sequitur: does anyone know if Ramtech is still in biz, or if Rambo is living out the retirement life on the beach?  I figured all that stuff was built by EMFG these days, but his website(s) is/are still around, although not updated in the last 8+ years.

Rambo is still around and running Ramtech. He brought me some parts when I had a show near him last year and I had an email conversation with him before everything shut down. It seems to me he lets the folks at <www.emfgrp.com> deal with all the manufacturing while he does sales/support.

Stay safe out there!
Title: Re: Source for multipin cable and connectors?
Post by: Tim McCulloch on August 14, 2020, 02:48:07 PM
Quote from: John Sulek on August 14, 2020, 12:02:10 PM
Rambo is still around and running Ramtech. He brought me some parts when I had a show near him last year and I had an email conversation with him before everything shut down. It seems to me he lets the folks at <www.emfgrp.com> deal with all the manufacturing while he does sales/support.

Stay safe out there!

It's an interesting relationship.  When AMP discontinued the AMP Latch, Rambo bought the rights from AMP for that product and the pin blocks it uses.  The contacts are the same as used in the AMP CPC and a few other designs... and for some time he was building everything in house.  After a few years RamLatch stopped building complete assemblies in house and a new fabrication company (located in the same industrial park) started up, ran for a couple of years or so, and then closed... only to have another one pop up shortly after.  Entertainment Metals (or whatever they're called today) is the latest and possibly the best of them. :)

Of the various multi pin connectors we like the RamLatch for simplicity, lots of work room, and the possibility of field repair.  Compared to a W4, it's a cake walk... But it's big, bulky and not as rugged as some of the newer products out there.  That we've got a bunch of legacy analog snakes that use them, we're unlikely to change (no matter how sexy some of the LinkUSA connectors are).