What are some nice types of PCB wire connectors? I don't like the ones that use a screw to tighten down the wire, they irk me.
Do they have kinds that you can leave in an open state without tension, adjust your wires, then switch in?
I don't like working one handed (like on WAGO stuff you need to fiddle around with a lever while you also groom wires with one hand).
Using a screw driver, which is ready to short shit out on a PCB you are working on is totally bogus.
Connecting and disconnecting wires to a powered PCB is not usually good practice anyway.
I like those speaker type connectors as well, even slightly more, but there is no huge issue with the screw type (although you need a screwdriver).
I only used that (screw type) so far on a Chinese step down module (it's used for connecting the output). One advantage over the standard banana plug system is that you can screw the component leads (or PCB power wires if you have such) directly onto the module. Or, if quickly testing a component you could directly push the leads onto the screws to make a contact.
One disadvantage is that the screw action will not last indefinitely. I guess once it does die out, it can be replaced or upgraded to a different connector.
As for shorting things out, it can happen when connecting stranded wires while the power is on at the output (as you could get + - connected by a stray strand). Although that's when you are less careful. That module does have short protection though, but obviously not all inputs/outputs where the screw terminals are used will be protected.
Once you use a ferrule, you will never want to go back to stranded wires!
CopperCone: Thanks for mentioning wire ferrules (also called cord-end terminals). I bought a modular crimper a while ago that has a die pair for these terminals, and I meant to try them but never bought any...
until now. I'm excited to try them. I picked up a variety of sizes from ali express on the cheap, guessing that US sellers probably import such things from China anyway.
Yes, I think those are very useful, just need a crimping tool. But I'm not sure if the cheap ones are useful. The one you linked is pricey (I'm sure it's quality, but still pricey).
For which type of circuit do you need them (contact density, current, frequency/speed)?
4 Signal lines, 100mA rms max, audio frequencies and DC current <50mA
Oxley has some little ball-shaped snap-on connectors which are easy to handle and well suited for repeated manipulation. Also some other sources (Keystone) for test point terminals. Also, you could fit size 22 PCB contacts from a Sub-D or other Mil-derived series and use #22 Mil contacts with a little rubber boot on the wire. As the female side is spring loaded, they retain well. Or do you think it is necessary to connect/disconnect the wires simultaneously?
I don't like working one handed (like on WAGO stuff you need to fiddle around with a lever while you also groom wires with one hand).
I am working on a project that uses a lot of connectors. I have been trying out everything that has the word "connector" on Aliexpress. Not knowing anything about WAGO before I like these the best:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Wago-Connector-222-Series-10PCS-Cage-Spring-Universal-Connector-Fast-Wire-Wiring-Conductors-Terminal-Block-China/32787524448.htmlLook at the number of orders. You can get real (maybe) ones on Amazon.
There is another type: 221 and it is thinner
The only thing is the spring is so strong that you can hurt yourself closing the switch. I have hurt my fingers several times. Also I to use two hands to use it otherwise I would pick up the equipment. My only complaint is the spring is very strong. I do not know if the real deal is as strong.
Once you use a ferrule, you will never want to go back to stranded wires!
Yep. One of the best inventions besides heat shrink tubing.
