Compact, high current, low cost – two pole power connectors.
The XT series connectors are from a Chinese manufacturer Amass. The most common version is the XT60 connector. They were developed for radio-controlled and drone applications where many projects have motors that can demand very high current surges, require a quick disconnect, low-weight, low-cost connector system but are still capable of reliably passing high currents with minimal loss.
Common variants are the XT30, XT60 and XT90 two pole connectors; they have a peak current capacity of 30, 60, and 90 amps, respectively. Note that the constant current capacity is half of the peak.
For on-car motorsport applications, the uses may be limited as there is no latch for the mating halves, but items such as test looms, pit equipment, etc. are a great solution. We use them extensively on the leads from bench power supplies and the connection to a myriad of power-up looms and test leads.
Overview
- Fixed contacts in housing, with solder connection only. No crimp or insertable contacts.
- XT60H-F and XT90H-F versions have a non-sealing optional back shell.
- Friction fit connector with a notch and housing shape to ensure correct mating.
- Gold-plated contacts, although the quality is unknown, it does appear very effective in normal workshop conditions.
- The female half is a plain sleeve, and the male is cross split spring pin style.
- The specification gives a dielectric rating of 500 volts DC, but given they were designed for the radio-controlled battery market, they should be considered for low-voltage applications only.
Variants
- Single/Loose pin versions exist all the way from the XT30 to XT150. Bear in mind the rating system for these connectors refers to peak current, and constant current handling is half the stated value.
- A very handy option is the panel mount variant, available in either gender and in XT60 & XT90 sizing.
- There is the MT60, a 3-pin variant based on the XT60 contacts.
- The newest variant is the XT60W, which is waterproof, utilising a rubber seal, but I could not determine the IP rating.
Summary
There are often applications where you want a low-cost, simple friction fit and high current connector. The XT series is certainly worth consideration, whilst they are not going to suit every on-car motorsport application, for many bench and workshop projects, they are an excellent solution.