You can have the ideal connector and cable for your application, but the wrong method of attaching that connector to the cable can result in an unreliable, problematic connection. Creating connections for cables involves one of two methods: soldering or crimping. Both methods can achieve a long-lasting, high-performance cable connection when applied correctly, but they each have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Soldering
Soldering is the more traditional method of wire termination, and it’s also the most economical. Soldering involves melting and cooling an alloy composed of lead, tin, brass, or silver into solder cups to bond a wire conductor to a contact. This method is typically recommended for general-duty and industrial applications that require reliable signal and power connections.
Unlike crimp terminations that require specialized tools, nearly any size wire and solder contact can be terminated with a basic soldering kit. Because the tooling is so minimal and the only materials required are solder and flux, there can be significant cost savings. In short, the primary benefit of soldering lies in its affordability.
There are, however, disadvantages to soldering. The soldering process generates heat in the contacts, the connector, and even in the cable. This unavoidable heat generation has the potential to cause problems, especially when the temperature rises above the operational limits of the insert. Additionally, a soldered connection will require a RoHS-compliant solder. This is problematic because many solders contain lead, which is banned by RoHS.
Soldered connections can also be more sensitive to both corrosion and vibration if not performed properly. This can be especially problematic for applications that involve harsh environments. However, a proper solder connection will withstand vibration and shock like a crimp connection and may be less susceptible to corrosion.
The soldering process is also more time-consuming than the crimping method, and it can create problems with both quality and reliability if not performed correctly. For example, “cold” solder joints can result if the solder does not completely melt. This creates a rough, uneven, or lumpy surface, resulting in an unreliable bond. In fact, cracks may develop over time and cause serious issues. In addition, the filler metal used for the soldering connection will degrade over time and can cause connector failure.
Crimping
Crimping uses the application of pressure to attach a contact to a wire. This method requires a crimping tool, and the connection is made when the handles of the tool are squeezed together to crimp the contact and wire together to form a solid connection. Crimping is recommended for applications that require high reliability in harsh environments.
Crimping has several advantages over soldering. It is a simple, fast process that can be either performed manually or automated via a crimping machine. Crimped connections create an air-tight seal between the connector and the cable, resulting in long-lasting, reliable connections that are protected from environmental conditions such as moisture, sand, dust, and dirt. When a skilled technician is in charge of the crimping process, the connection may result in a highly durable “cold weld.” Crimping is also more consistent than soldering, which can vary according to the method used or the skill level of the technician.
However, crimping does require tooling that is specific to the type of contacts used, which can get expensive. And the crimping process must be performed correctly to achieve a reliable connection.
All in all, the quality of the solder or crimp connection is the most important factor. The imperfections of either connection are typically the root cause for electrical failures from vibration, shock, and corrosion. Both connections' sensitivity to vibration can be combated through the use of cable accessories such as a backshell (which protects the connection and provides a degree of strain relief), but there is an added cost associated with using a backshell.
PEI-Genesis: Connection Experts
Whether your application involves harsh environment RJ45 connectors for use in transmitting data for oil field applications or high-performance circular connectors for factory automation, PEI-Genesis can help. From specifying the right connector, choosing the most appropriate contacts, setting up custom packaging or kitting, and selecting the best connection method, our experts are ready to help you bring your designs into the realm of reality.
