Barrel power cables are cylindrical connectors primarily used for delivering DC power to electronic devices. Featuring a concentric conducting surface design, they provide reliable electrical connections while maintaining mechanical stability. These cables play a critical role in modern electronics by enabling efficient power transmission for consumer, industrial, and specialized equipment.
| Type | Functional Features | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Barrel | Basic DC power delivery, 2.1-5.5mm diameter variations | Laptops, routers, consumer electronics |
| High-Current Barrel | Enhanced contact area for >5A applications | Industrial machinery, 3D printers |
| Locking Barrel | Mechanical locking mechanism for vibration resistance | Medical equipment, aerospace systems |
| Waterproof Barrel | IP67-rated sealing for outdoor/harsh environments | Outdoor LED displays, construction equipment |
Typical construction includes: - Central copper conductor (4-18 AWG) with tin/silver plating - High-density polyethylene (HDPE) insulation layer - Braided shielding (aluminum/mylar) for EMI protection - Durable PVC/TPU outer jacket - Precision-machined brass contacts with gold/nickel plating The barrel shell maintains concentricity within 0.02mm tolerance.
| Parameter | Value Range | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Rating | 12-48V DC | Determines power delivery capacity |
| Current Capacity | 1-15A | Affects thermal performance |
| Contact Resistance | 5m | Impacts power efficiency |
| Temperature Range | -40 C to +105 C | Defines operational limits |
| Durability | 5,000-10,000 mating cycles | Determines service life |
Major application areas include: - Consumer Electronics: Notebook adapters, gaming consoles - Industrial Automation: CNC machines, robotics - Medical Devices: Diagnostic equipment, infusion pumps - Telecommunications: Network routers, base stations - Automotive: EV charging systems, infotainment units
| Manufacturer | Representative Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Amphenol | DCB Series | 15A rating, military-grade durability |
| TE Connectivity | Power Barrel 703 | Hybrid power/data transmission |
| Molex | Mini-Fit Jr. | Compact 4.0mm design |
| Bel Fuse | PWR-BLK | Integrated fuse protection |
Key selection criteria: - Match voltage/current requirements with safety margins - Consider environmental factors (temperature, moisture) - Verify mechanical compatibility (diameter/plug depth) - Assess EMI shielding needs - Prioritize connectors with IP ratings for harsh environments - Confirm compliance with RoHS, REACH, and UL standards
Emerging trends include: - Miniaturization (sub-3mm barrel diameters) - Increased power density (>20A capabilities) - Integration of smart power management - Adoption of eco-friendly halogen-free materials - Standardization of quick-lock mechanisms