Molex Cables: Applications, Design, and Evolution

Molex cables and connectors have played a significant role in the electronic and computer hardware industries for decades. These versatile components are known for their reliability and ease of use in various applications. In this article, we will explore the different uses of Molex cables and the evolution of Molex connectors from their early beginnings to modern standards.

Applications of Molex Cables

Molex cables are commonly used in a variety of contexts, from computer hardware to industrial and automotive applications. Here are some key areas where Molex cables find their place:

Power Supply Connections: Molex connectors, particularly the 4-pin variety, are often used to supply power from the power supply unit (PSU) to components like hard drives, optical drives, and some older motherboards. Peripheral Connections: They serve to connect peripherals such as printers and scanners, often in older devices. Internal Wiring: Molex connectors are utilized in a variety of internal wiring applications, including fans and LED lighting in computer cases. Modular Applications: They are also used in modular electronic systems where components can be easily connected and disconnected. Automotive and Industrial Uses: Molex connectors are found in automotive wiring harnesses and industrial equipment, providing reliable electrical connections.

Overall, Molex cables are valued for their reliability and ease of use in connecting various electronic components, making them an indispensable part of many electronic devices.

The Design of Molex Connectors

Molex connectors are specifically designed for two-piece pin and socket interconnections. This design, pioneered by Molex Connector Company, quickly became an early electronic standard. Molex developed and patented the first examples of this connector style in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Initially used in home appliances, the connector soon made its way into other industries, from automobiles to vending machines to mini-computers.

The Molex connector consists of cylindrical spring-metal pins that fit into cylindrical spring-metal sockets. The pins and sockets are held in a rectangular matrix within a nylon shell. A typical connector has 2 to 24 contacts and is polarized or keyed to ensure correct orientation. Each housing can be either male or female, and the pins and sockets can be arranged in any combination.

There are three typical pin sizes: 1.57 mm (0.062 in), 2.13 mm (0.084 in), and 2.36 mm (0.093 in). The 1.57 mm pin can carry 5 A of current, while the 2.36 mm pin can carry 8.5 A. Due to the large contact surface area and tight fit, these connectors are typically used for power applications, making them a preferred choice for high current requirements.

The Evolution of Molex Connectors

One of the early milestones in the development of Molex connectors was the introduction of the Mate-n-Lok connector by AMP (now TE Connectivity) in October 1963. While similar to the patented Molex connectors, the Mate-n-Lok was not interchangeable with them. Both connectors were widely used in the computer industry, and the term 'Molex' became synonymous with this type of connector.

The first 5.25-inch floppy disk drive, the Shugart SA400, introduced in August 1976, used the AMP Mate-n-Lok connector, part number 350211-1. This connector became the standard for 5.25-inch format peripherals, such as hard drives, and was used until the introduction of SATA drives in 1998.

In 1983, Molex introduced the 8981 connectors under the trademark Disk Drive Power Connection System, which was fully compatible with the AMP Mate-n-Lok connector. The Molex 8981 series was only produced in a 4-position option, unlike the Mate-n-Lok family, which included many other contact arrangements.

Over the years, Molex connectors have continually improved, adapting to meet the evolving needs of the electronic and computing industries. From early home appliances to cutting-edge industrial and automotive applications, Molex connectors have remained a reliable and essential component of many electronic systems.