Looking for recommendations for a simple connector

[e1p3dr0]

I'm looking for a simple, small, cheap connector preferably for a pair of wires that can be connected and disconnected without any tools, but doesn't tend to work itself loose. The smaller the better.

This for extra low voltage (anywhere up to 24V) and low current <3A and the wires will be a narrow gauge.

The closest thing I can think of is a DC jack connector like https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/253696560129?hash=item3b117e4c01:g:4R0AAOSwJ7dbJ9K8. Is there anything perhaps even smaller? I don't mind having to install something that requires solder and heat shrink. Strain releif isn't essential, but would be welcome.

Background:
In this particular case, I'm going to be using it in the middle of a run of 24V LED strip: One part of the strip is permanently fixed, and the other part is fixed to an appliance which needs to be removed from time to time so it would be useful to be able to disconnect the one half from the other.

[themadhippy]

For small and locking i tend to use mini xlr. https://www.switchcraft.com/category.aspx?Parent=806

[mariush]

You could simply go on a site like Digikey at the connectors section, and then filter by how you want the connector ... for example right angle through hole or surface mount connectors, only connectors with a friction fit or a locking mechanism so the connectors can't be pulled apart, then i'd filter by thickness of wires they support (no sense selecting connectors for awg14 gauge wires if you plan to use awg24-20) , and then maybe sort by volume of parts in stock as that may be a good indicator of connector popularity.

Here's an example of such filtered list : https://www.digikey.com/short/1f8hp5vj

On the second page, I see molex MicroFit 3 : https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/molex/0436500200/268989
which mates with this (housing only) : https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/molex/0436450200/268974
and you have crimp contacts here : https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/molex/0430300007/252479

If you don't feel like buying a crimping tool for the pins, you can buy cable assembly ready made :

(tin plated) https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/molex/2147511021/12369955
(gold plated) https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/molex/2147512021/12366204


Would seem like a good combination for your needs... they're all available in 40000 pcs + , can do 3A with awg24..awg20 wires, that connector uses little space on pcb, has latch so it won't pop out by itself...


Another suggestion... how about MiniFit Jr and the equivalent series from other manufacturers ... same as the pci-e 6 pin and 8 pin connectors used on video cards?

Here's a link : https://www.digikey.com/short/qdz5nt0v

There's right angle versions, straight versions and there's connectors with wires ... and the connector has a lip so you can't pull it out without pressing on that to release.

[jfiresto]

For small and locking i tend to use mini xlr. https://www.switchcraft.com/category.aspx?Parent=806

I like those as well – as the Rean Tiny XLR.

[David Hess]

The Molex SL series has lockable housings.

[tooki]

JST SM series. It’s commonly used on LED strips.

[wizard69]

There are so many possibilities here that ultimately you need to pick a solution based on factors other than electrical.   One thing to consider is safety and making sure the connector is not compatible with any other thing used locally.    If it is compatible and a pinout standard exists use a standard pin assignment that doesn't lead to compatibility issues.

Some suggestions:

• Standard M8 and M12 connectors used in industrial control.   These are often used in 24 VDC installations so should be good if the current rating is right for you.
• XLR connectors.   
• Mate-N-Lock connectors.   No strain relief to speak of and a need for a crimper.
• Barrel connectors come in all sorts of diameters and capacities.
• "Automotive" Weather-Pak type connectors.   Not sure what max voltage is and you would need crimpers yet again.
• Choose your own.

This is just a quick list of things that came to mind without really thinking about it.   The important one might be 'Choose you own', the last item.   The reason I say that is if you go on a suppliers web site and search wire to wire connectors you will likely find thousand of choice by the time you are done. 

It really does come down to how much protection you need.   Connectors used inside of products can be very low mass and even delicate.   Go in the opposite direction and you can find very robust connectors for a variety of harsh environments.