A Guide to Mil Spec Connectors

For many people working with high end, harsh & no fail environment connector systems, Mil Spec will be the system of choice.

Their longevity and track record of reliability and known quality makes them an easy design for any engineer, however for non technical buyers the part numbering system can be baffling.

The following guide will help de-mystify the part numbers and help to understand the different types.

Let’s start with some basics, this guide is dealing with circular connectors and the following image shows the typical construction on the connectors.

What are the main types of connector series?

The most popular Mil Spec Connectors in standard use are: MIL-DTL-5015, MIL-DTL-26482 & MIL-DTL-38999.

This for most people is where they are lost and find it difficult to get their heads around the part numbers and differences however, with the following all will become clear!

How are the connectors most commonly used?

MIL-DTL-5015

• Older larger series of connectors
• Found on many pieces of military equipment and commercial applications
• Mostly heavy current carrying connectors
• Early types had only solder type contacts

MIL-DTL-26482

• Widely used smaller connectors
• Extensive use on military equipment including aircraft as well

as commercial applications

• Available with either crimp or solder type contacts
• 3 point bayonet coupling
• Popular low cost series

MIL-DTL-38999

• Preferred for new design by the Military
• The smallest of all the Mil Spec connector types
• Greatest growth potential of all cylindricals
• Most commonly used in Automotive & Auto sport products
• MIL-DTL-38999 has rear release, crimp removable contacts

To summarise I like to think of the systems in the following way:

MIL-DTL-5015 – Oldest and largest connectors

MIL-DTL-26482 – Most common widely adopted

MIL-DTL-38999 – Smallest and fast becoming the connector of choice for new designs

This guide has in no way been overtly technical as too much emphasis is made on the technical attributes of connectors and not enough of the practical uses of connectors.

Once you understand the basic principles involved it becomes easier to understand the choices engineers make on selecting appropriate connectors.  There is a mine of information surrounding Mil Spec connectors however I hope this has been useful and as always ask us your friendly cable assembly company to guide you to the best system for your products.