4-pin cable parts?

[boopidoo]

Hello!

I've been trying to ask this question twice using e-mail but to no avail so I'll try here instead.

I need extension cables for the GPS as well as for the USB-interface on the V3-logger. The 30cm extension cable available (CAB-EXP-EXT) is not the perfect length for me since I need both longer and shorter lengths. The best option for me would be to build one myself or that you stocked more lengths.

Is it possible to buy the 4-pin cable including male and female connector parts separately so that I can cut the cable and solder the connectors myself?

[cvandenb]

Hi Boopidoo,

Yes, that is certainly possible. I built my first cable too. I do however not know if there is a maximum length of cable, Bill will have to state that.

One thing i would advise is that you do a Full range check before any flying, cos i had some interference issues with longer cables.

Good Luck

[dhares]

I have used variable length 3 pin and 4 pin cables. Reasonable lengths (2 or 3 cables connected end to end) work fine and do not interfer with my radios. Parts are easy to find, except for 4 wire cable. Check out digikey.com.

[boopidoo]

Wow, digikey has a lot to choose from. Since you have ordered from them before maybe you could tell me exactly what you have bought which works?

Both 4 wire cables and 4-pin connectors (male+female)?

OR

If Bill sees this I might buy the same material ET uses?

[billpa]

Hi Boop,

digi-key is probably your best source. Molex makes a version of the 4 pin cable, but a special crimper is required for the pins. I don't have the part numbers, but hopefully it won't be hard for your to find it on digi-key.


Regards,

Bill, for Eagle Tree

[boopidoo]

Hi again!

These should work right? I almost positive it's 2.54mm spacing between the pins.

http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail&name=A28399-ND
http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail&name=A34238-ND
http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail&name=A28442-ND

[boopidoo]

I've bought a flat cable now but it seems kind of thin since it's only 1.27mm thick, that is about 16AWG. Are these too thin or should they work well as a 4-pole cable for GPS and USB?

I'll make one and find out I guess. Sadly the cable I found wasn't color coded so I will have to take care when installing so I don't short anything.

[dhares]

I usually use 4 wire phone cable - the flat grey stuff. It's color coded, stranded #22, and easy to find. If you want, you can remove the grey insulation and twist or braid the wire. Most servo wire is #22 or #24

[boopidoo]

Ah, thanks for the tip! :)

It seems that the 1.27mm wire I bought isn't really 1.27mm at all it's much thinner so I guess I'll try the phone wire if that has worked ok for you.

[rceagle1a]

I want to make a USB cable to go between my laptop and the dashboaard. What is the wire combo from the USB to the 4 pin?

[rceagle1a]

I actually mean what wire from the USB cable goes to what pin? Also I have salvaged some internal Computer cables that I can use for the flat 4pin connector

[dhares]

Eagletree pin 1,2,3,4 go to USB cable pins 1,2,3,5.

Pin Name Color Description
1 VCC Red +5 V
2 D− White Data −
3 D+ Green Data +
4 (Eagle Tree not used) ID none permits distinction of
Micro-A- and Micro-B-Plug
Type A: connected to Ground
Type B: not connected
5 (Eagle Tree 4) GND Black Signal Ground

The data cables are a twisted pair to reduce noise and crosstalk.

Regards,
Dave

[nioa]

The connectors are available at Hansen Hobbies:

1x4 Connector Housing (http://hansenhobbies.com/products/connectors/pt1inconnectors/pt1in_1x4/)

and don't forget the pins:

Male Gold Terminals (http://hansenhobbies.com/products/connectors/pt1inconnectors/pt1in_mt/)

You will also need a crimper:

Crimping Tool (http://hansenhobbies.com/products/connectors/tools/crimp_ec/)

But the Hansen one is more expensive then the one available at Radio Shack. I have seen a Philco crimper at Fry's Electronics for $7.95. Regardless of the brand, the crimper is same from the venders I list above. So if you can save money, go ahead. You may be tempted to buy a "deluxe" crimper, but the economy shown here does a great job; again, save your money.

Nick