idiot proof sockets

[silverseal]

I have been trying to source idiot proof plugs and sockets for use within the boat to plug in VHF radio, GPS, SSB radio etc, and have had no joy. Have tried Maplin without success.. the external type plugs and socket found in chandlers are OK outside but dont sit well inside. Any ideas of a suitable source I reckon a max of about 6 amps would be OK

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[Talbot]

Best source of these is from Index. Are you trying to get a one size fits all type of plug? cause you have a very large amp range in the items you list. Personnally I dont secure these with a plug and socket cause the only time they are removed is at most once a year for the winter. (I normally remove my electronics to keep them dry and to keep them out of reach of the scumbags.)

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[LadyInBed]

I use the ‘cigarette lighter’ sockets and plugs for hand held / portable devices but if they don’t suit you can use multi pin DIN plugs and sockets (wire several pins together to up the amperage). You can also get a ‘screw lock’ type from <A target="_blank" HREF=http://rswww.com/cgi-bin/bv/browse/Module.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@1548731693.1102270063@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccccadddfehedelcfngcfkmdgkldfin.0&cacheID=ukie&3279722940=3279722940&stockNo=486117> Radio Spares </A>

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[Geordie]

For the application that you specify, you can't beat the Fischer range from RS. Beautifully engineered, expensive, tiny but can carry quite large currents.

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[Evadne]

The best keyed, locking IP67 rated connectors I've come across are Lemo, which are beautifully made, mind-bogglingly difficult to order from the catalogue and hideously expensive by yacht standards. But they are very good. I think Farnell do a range of them off-the-shelf. I use them at work, but I've none on the boat.

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[towzer240]

try the bulgin range from rs components or mailspeed marine. they also do one for usb.

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[Robin]

I'm puzzled as to why these items fitted internally should special need plugs nd sockets?

Personally I use French bought double chocolate box terminal connectors, one half is like the normal ones the other half has plug pins fitted that fit into part one and screw tighten. These allow easy removal for example for winter storage but give a good connection and are cheap. They come in various sizes to match the cable size used.



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[roger]

I query your view that external sockets work OK. IMHO they are mostly liable to give trouble and should be avoided whenever possible. Its better to make the joints below deck

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