What is MC4 connector
Solar cable connectors are designed to connect internal and external photovoltaic system components. The Mc4 connector adopts internal drum reed, male head, junction box and cable, and is made of PPO. The shell has strong anti-aging and anti-ultraviolet ability; it meets the requirements of harsh outdoor environmental conditions, and is connected by inserting and fixing a self-locking structure. Both male and female connectors have safety locks so they won't come apart. Mc4 connectors are the standard way to connect solar panels. They're also built for outdoor use, making them perfect for rooftop solar panels and RVs. This solar connector has passed TUV certification.
Mc4 Connector Parameters
| Rated voltage | 1000V DC | Contact resistance | ≤0.3mΩ |
| Rated current | 30A ( 4.0mm2 , 6.0mm2) | Insulation material | PPO |
| Test voltage | 6kV (50Hz, 1min.) | Locking system | snap-in |
| Contact material | tinned copper alloy | Operating temperature range | -40°C to 90°C |
| Overvoltage category | CAT III | Protection Level | IP68 |
| Flame retardant grade | UL-94-V0 | Termination Type | Crimp |
| Contact system | Stamping | Cable outer diameter range | Ø4.5mm – 7.8mm |
How To Connect Solar Cables
You will need wire strippers, MC4 connectors, MC4 connector crimping tool and 4mm cable. MC4 connectors are designed for 4mm cables and even 6mm cables, so compatibility is no problem. Cable length will depend on the distance of the panel from other components. If you're installing solar panels in an RV, you might need a few feet, or if it's a house, you might need a few feet.
Crimp the male connector.
Push the cable into the connector until it clicks. Tighten it.
Crimp the female fittings in the same manner as the male fittings.
connecting cables. You should hear a click.
Why Use Waterproof Mc4 Connectors
Because the photovoltaic system has been operating in extreme cold and extreme temperature changes for a long time. Because the MC4 connector must be able to maintain stable working performance in such a harsh environment. Not only can it withstand high temperature and moisture water, but also has touch safety protection, and the ability to pass large currents. In addition to the above requirements, low contact resistance is also an important consideration.
How To Install Waterproof Mc4 Connector
MC4 is the name given to the type of connection on all new solar panels, providing an IP67 waterproof and dustproof safe electrical connection. MC4 will not interface with older MC3 style connectors.
MC4 connectors work best with 4mm and 6mm solar cables.
When you buy any new solar panel (usually over 30 watts) it already comes with two 500 - 900mm wires with MC4 connectors attached so you can get power from the solar panel safely.
You can buy pre-cut wire from 2m to 10m, we sell these, but it's more efficient to buy a cable that can be cut to the exact length you need, and connect to the MC4 connector.
How To Use MC4 Connectors In Solar Panel Series
It is easy to connect the MC4 connector to the solar panel series. The female connector is positive and the male connector is negative. Simply connect the positive lead of module 1 to the negative lead of module 2. Repeat for other PV modules to add to the series.
Connecting solar panels in series increases the voltage. If you have two 12V modules, connecting them in series will boost the voltage to 24V. Add a 12V module and it becomes 36V. In a series, the current remains constant.
How To Use MC4 connectors In Solar Panel Paralleling
Parallel solar system configurations require the same wires to be connected. That is positive to positive, negative to negative. Paralleling the system keeps the voltage level consistent but increases the amperage.
So if you have several 6A modules and a 36V system, the voltage will stay at 36 while the amps increase to 12. You must use multi-branch MC4 connectors to connect the male connectors. You will also use this to attach the female connector. A combiner box is required to connect more than two solar panels in parallel.
