DISTRAP Connector Specification

DISTRAP Connector Specification v0.6

The connectors used are standard MOLEX Mini-Fit Jr connectors, just like on ATX stuff, but unlike the proprietary ones on the PCIe so-called 6-pin and 8-pin GPU Power Connectors.

The aim of this specification is to use common connectors in an agreed pinout to make physical compatibility between devices as straight-forward as possible while keeping costs down. All the connectors are physically the same type to keep part diversity down and allowing cost savings by ordering larger lots of the same component type. It’s encouraged to share a common GND between the power rails, in the same style as on ATX.

DISTRAP Bus Connector (type A)

The Bus Connector is the standard connector all DISTRAP devices should include.

• Devices requiring more power than 5VDC, 250mA or different voltages should include onboard regulation from 12VDC.

• The 5VDC pin provides power as long as the device is operational, even in standby. It’s intended for powering the controllers and attached low-current sensors and status LEDs; not motors, heaters and such. The 5VDC rail be the ATX PSU's standby 5V rail, which doesn't provide much power considering all devices would be loaded from the same rail.

• The 12VDC pins may be powered down while the device isn’t active, but otherwise operational; not necessarily in standby.

• For high-powered devices, like heaters and high-power motors, use one or more of the type B connectors to deliver the required current and voltage.

• Do not draw more than 5A per 12VDC pin. Each device should select the minimum appropriate connector size (6 to 24 pins). The 4-pin connector should be used only on self-powered devices.

• The system level power limits are the practical limits of the power supply and cabling of your device.