Industrial Drones & Robotics
Drones have rapidly evolved from niche military tools to essential assets in commercial, industrial, and consumer applications. They are widely used in aerial photography, agriculture, surveying, infrastructure inspection, and even emergency response. Their ability to navigate hard-to-reach areas and provide real-time data makes them invaluable in industries such as energy, telecommunications, and environmental monitoring. However, drones require reliable connectivity and power management to function efficiently, which is where Switchcraft products play a crucial role. Switchcraft offers durable and high-performance connectors, jacks, and power solutions that ensure seamless communication between drone components. Their ruggedized connectors withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as vibrations, extreme temperatures, and moisture, making them ideal for drones operating in challenging environments. Additionally, Switchcraft’s lightweight and compact designs help optimize drone weight and performance, ensuring maximum flight efficiency. By providing robust and reliable connectivity solutions, Switchcraft enhances the functionality and durability of drones in various demanding applications.
Switchcraft products have always been proudly made in the USA!
Power and Signal Connectivity
Communication and Control Systems
Camera and Sensor Systems
Charging and Docking Stations
Military Drone Applications
Harsh Environment Conditions – Requires corrosion-resistant materials and reliable performance in rain, dust, vibration, and temperature fluctuations
Secure and Reliable Connections
Weight and Space Constraints
High Data Transmission Speeds
Frequent Handling and Rough Usage
Efficient Power Management & Charging
Customization & Integration Flexibility
Sealed Connectors with Corrosion-Resistant Material
Locking Connectors with High-Reliability Contacts
Miniature Connectors and Low-Profile Cable Assemblies
Shielded Connectors & Cables and Balanced Audio/Video Connectors for High-Speed data Transmission
Field-Serviceable Designs
Power Jacks, Plugs, and Panel-Mount Solutions for charging and ground station interfaces
Jump To: | Power & Signal Circular Connectors | I/O Connectors |
Featured Product Solutions:
Circular Connectors
Cylindrical, multi-pin connectors designed for reliable power and signal transmission, especially in harsh or outdoor environments. In Drone applications, these are ideal for motor controls, sensors, GPS, cameras, and environmental exposure.
- The Following Solutions are Compact, Lightweight, Sealed, and Vibration-resistant & Ideal for onboard Drone Use: EP7 Series & Micro-Con-X Connectors
- The Following Solutions are ideal for Ground Support Systems & Charging Stations Multi-Con-X, Mini-Con-X, EN3 Series, & END Series
The All New EP7 30 Amp connector series are field installable, waterproof, circular sealed connectors with an IP68/IP69K rating.
The EP7 series is a new line of connectors designed specifically for higher current applications. Large contacts with screw terminals are ideal for heavy-duty wire up to 10awg, while a unique insert design protects the user while maximizing the isolation of each pole. A large backshell with rugged chuck-style strain relief accommodates a wide range of cable diameters and the Insta-Click positive lock makes connecting and disconnecting as simple as possible. Custom overmolded cable assemblies are also available.
Specifications:
- Material: Thermoplastic, Copper Alloy, Gold Plated. Insert Material: F1 Rated UV Resistance
- Coupling Locking Style: Insta-Click Positive Lock
- Unshielded
- Voltage Rating: 600 V AC/DC
Features/Benefits:
- 3, 4 or 5 pin configurations including protective earth ground contact.
- Rugged housing using high-temp, UL f1 rated materials
- Insta-Click™ spring loaded latching mechanism locks automatically
- Easy field installation with screw terminal contacts, accepting up to 10awg wires
- Panel mount receptacles, cable-to-cable in-line connectors, or custom overmolded cables available with male or female contacts
- Fully sealed to meet both IP68 and IP69K for harsh environments
- A special high-PBT material provides excellent UV resistance for outdoor use and lighting applications
The Multi-Con-X® from Conxall® has set the industry standard for sealed circular plastic connectors for nearly 50 years, and this new extension makes field termination easier than ever. Simply insert the conductors and tighten the preinstalled hex screw. No soldering or crimp tools are required. The MultiCon-X with screw terminals also incorporates the latest Insta-Click® design with automatic positive lock and an IP68 waterproof rating.
Features & Benefits:
- Insta-Click® positive lock, slight turn to disconnect
- Made from high quality, UV resistant plastic
- 3 or 4 positions
- Standard IP68 seal rating, along with UL F1 rated UV resistance
- Large size #14 contacts are ideal for power applications, providing up to 13 A of power when using 14AWG wire
- Lifecycles: 300 cycles min
- Operating Temp. Range: -40 to 115° C
Go to Multi-Con-X Sealed Connector
Features & Benefits:
- Watertight per: NEMA 6P, 13: IEC IP67
- 4.8A to 13A current range and 600V voltage
- 24AWG to 16AWG conductor sizes
- 2 to 10 positions in a 5 to shell size range
- >300 mating/unmating cycles without mechanical or electrical failure
- Coupling rings have an override locking feature to prevent loosening or separation of the connector
- Hex nut to withstand 10in/lb to 12in/lb tightening torque
- -40°C to +115°C operating temperature range
- Gold-plated contacts
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Go to Mini-Con-X & Micro-Con-X OTS Cables
The Micro Con X® series from Conxall® sets the standard for harsh environment connectors. It is built to withstand harsh environments with an IP67/IP69K seal rating, and a 600V voltage rating makes it an ideal solution for power or signal. Thousands of configurations are available up to 7 contacts, including standard off the shelf or custom molded cable assemblies.
Features & Benefits:
- Thousands of configurations are available up to 7 contacts with a variety of options
- Coupling rings have overriding locking features to prevent loosening or seperation of connector
- Available as field installable connectors or factory molded cable assemblies
- Compact size fits in a 0.43” [10.9mm] mounting hole
- The Con-X® series is sealed to IP67/IP69K for harsh environments when used with a molded cable assembly
- 600V voltage rating makes it an ideal solution for power or signal.
- Made in USA to the high standards that have made Conxall the leading name in harsh environment connectors
Resources:
Coming Soon!
The Multi-Con-X® from Conxall® set the standard for harsh environment connectors, and this new configuration adds incredible flexibility. Three #12 contacts provide up to 23A of power, while four #26 contacts provide the flexibility needed for signal, all within a single, compact connector. Custom, factory overmolded cable assemblies are also available from Conxall.
Features & Benefits:
- One connector with 3 #12 and 4 #26 contacts
- Power contacts rated for 23A of current
- Available bayonet or Insta-Click locking options
- Sealed to IP68 (Insta-Click version)
- UL f1 rated UV resistance
Made in USA using high quality materials
Utilizing an integral O-Ring/gasket, EN3® connectors are available in 2-18 pins/sockets in the same housing size, bayonet locking, cable end, cable-to-cable, panel mount,right angle panel mount, solder, pc, crimp contacts, caps, .Exceeds enclosure rating IP66/IP68/IP69K and NEMA 250 when mated or covered
Features:
- Designed for harsh environments – Sealed to IP68 NEMA 250 (6P)
- Gold plated Contact Standard
- Patented Grommet & O-ring free design
- Available in a variety of contacts sizes
- Made in USA
Benefits:
- Durability: Industrial environments can be harsh, with exposure to moisture, dust, vibrations, and extreme temperatures. EN3 connectors are designed to withstand these conditions, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging environments.
- Water and Dust Resistance: Industrial lighting and control systems often require connectors that can withstand exposure to water and dust without compromising performance. EN3 connectors typically feature IP66/IP68 ratings, making them resistant to water and dust ingress, thus ensuring the integrity of the connection.
- Reliable Connectivity: In industrial settings, reliable connectivity is critical to ensure uninterrupted operation of lighting and control systems. EN3 connectors offer secure mating and locking mechanisms to prevent accidental disconnection, reducing the risk of downtime.
- Flexibility: Industrial lighting and control systems often require flexibility in design and installation. EN3 connectors come in various configurations, including different sizes, pin counts, and mounting options, allowing for versatile integration into different applications.
- Safety: Safety is paramount in industrial environments. EN3 connectors comply with relevant safety standards and regulations, providing peace of mind to users regarding the safety and reliability of their lighting and control systems.
- Ease of Installation and Maintenance: EN3 connectors are designed for easy installation and maintenance, with features such as simple plug-and-play functionality and field-replaceable parts, reducing downtime and minimizing installation and maintenance costs.
High quality, compact IP67 sealed RJ45 connectors, suitable for any application requiring a high quality, waterproof RJ45. The new END series from Switchcraft offers reliable, harsh environment performance in a smaller package. Incorporating an RJ45 connector into a sealed housing ensures the connectors are easy to terminate while still offering data performance up to CAT6. A variety of panel mount options, including a feedthrough are available. Panel mount receptacles are compatible with END series sealed plugs or any standard RJ45 connector, and are sealed to IP67 when mated or using the optional cap. Shielding is available with the optional shielded plug and the ENDP6SPC die-cast receptacles. END series connectors are sealed to IP67 when mated or using the optional screw-on cap. Plugs and receptacles meet or exceed CAT6 specifications for high speed data applications (ENDP5EF Feedthrough rated CAT5E)
Specifications:
- Number of Conductors: 8
- Product Line: END Series
- Locking: Locking
- Sealed: Sealed
- Packaging Type: Bulk
- Standard Connector Type: RJ45
- Coupling Locking Style: Threaded
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Audio, Signal, Power I/O Connectors
These are more standardized interface connectors, used for audio, analog/digital signals, or power connections in control systems, AV payloads, and charging stations. In Drone applications, I/O Connectors are Commonly used on ground control units, test interfaces, AV payloads, & charging docks.
- The Following Solutions are Compact, Lightweight, Sealed, and Vibration-resistant & Ideal for onboard Drone Use: Tini-QG
- The Following Solutions are ideal for Ground Support Systems & Charging Stations: XLR Connectors, Power Jacks, Plugs, and Patchbays
Resources: Pro Audio Selector Guide
Field-proven Switchcraft XLR connectors, long the industry standard, are available in a wide range of plugs and receptacles. The 3-7 contact connectors with electrically integral ground terminal are available with silver or gold plated contacts, nickel, black or satin finish housings.
XLR Cable Mount – A, AA, and AAA Series cable mount XLR connectors.
XLR Panel Mount – Wide variety of panel mount XLR connector options including front, rear, and threaded collar mount, with a metal and plastic shell.
Sealed XLR – Sealed XLR Connectors are available in cable, panel and cable-to-cable options. Panel connector sealed to IP68 NEMA 250 (6P) unmated. Mated pairs sealed to IP66. Available in silver or gold plated contacts. Perfect for applications such as outdoor communications equipment, audio applications, instrumentation and stage lighting.
Features & Benefits:
- Panel mount connectors are sealed to IP68 when unmated, while cable plugs are sealed to IP66.
- Rugged design and high quality material
- Two piece design with integral strain relief (AAA series)
- Large solder terminals for easy termination
- Thermoplastic pin insert withstands high temperature soldering
- Male and female panel mount fit into the same cutout (E Series)
- Unsurpassed durability with a choice of finishes and contact plating
- Female connectors have latch lock feature to hold connectors firmly together
- Rated for at least 1,000 insertion/ withdrawal cycles
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Switchcraft’s Tini-QG product line consists of Mini XLR connectors designed for compact, durable, and reliable connections in various applications as well as adio adapters. These connectors are available in multiple configurations, including cable mount, panel mount, and PC mount options, accommodating 3 to 7 pins. In drone applications, the Tini-QG connectors can be utilized to establish secure and reliable connections for various electronic components, such as cameras, sensors, and communication systems. Their compact size and robust construction make them suitable for the limited space and demanding conditions often encountered in drones. The secure locking mechanism ensures that connections remain intact during flight, even under vibration and movement. Additionally, the availability of sealed variants provides protection against environmental factors like dust and moisture, which is crucial for outdoor drone operations.
Key Features:
- Compact Design: The Mini XLR form factor allows for space-saving connections without compromising performance.
- Robust Construction: Constructed with high-quality materials such as nickel-plated brass housings and thermoplastic inserts, ensuring durability.
- Secure Locking Mechanism: Female connectors feature latch locks to hold connections firmly in place, preventing accidental disconnections.
- Versatile Mounting Options: Available in cable mount male and female connectors, panel mount female connectors, and through-hole or surface mount male connectors.
- Multiple Pin Configurations: Offered in 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, or 7-pin configurations to suit various signal requirements.
- Sealed Variants: Some models are designed to be waterproof, achieving IP66 when mated and IP65 when unmated (panel only), suitable for environments requiring moisture resistance.
- High Mating Cycle Life: Rated for at least 5,000 insertion/withdrawal cycles, ensuring long-term reliability.
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The Switchcraft line of jacks and plugs are designed with our customers in mind. Perfect for power plugs for instrumentation and audio connections.
DC POWER JACKS & PLUGS
Switchcraft has the widest range of DC power jacks and DC power plugs in the industry. Their offering includes waterproof, high amperage, and standard DC jacks and DC plugs in a familiar, barrel connector design. Locking barrel connectors are also available. These products are made in the USA and are suitable for harsh environment applications.
They are sometimes known as barrel jacks and barrel plugs or barrel electrical connectors, and Switchcraft offers items that are compatible with industry standard power connectors with 1.3mm, 2.0mm, 2.1mm, or 2.5mm center pins.
- Sealed power plugs and jacks provide a great waterproof alternative to the standard power plug and jack. With an IP 68/ NEMA 250 (6P) rating and a current rating up to 5A, this series of product is perfect for any type of environment.
- High current, Sealed or Non-Sealed Power Jacks & Plugs are available in locking or non-locking versions. Automatic switch over from AC to DC permitted by sleeve shunt spring. Up to 11A current rating (carry).
- High Amp – The new 15 Amp series from Switchcraft takes the rugged and easy-to-use design of a barrel connector and expands the possibilities to higher power applications. Typical power jacks can handle 5 Amps, but these can safely handle 3 times the current. They are also sealed to IP68 and offer a sturdy metal coupling ring, so connections are always securely locked in.
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Switchcraft’s Sealed Unmated DC Power Jacks deliver reliable, IP68-rated power connections in harsh environments, with epoxy sealing, threaded locking, and compatibility with standard plugs. Rated up to 11A and 24V, they withstand shock, vibration, and extreme temperatures. These jacks are ideal for ground-based drone charging stations, providing a secure, weather-resistant power interface for outdoor use.
AUDIO JACKS & PLUGS
Audio jacks and plugs from Switchcraft are designed with our customers in mind. Perfect for power plugs for instrumentation and audio connections, they can be used in a variety of applications such as medical equipment, manufacturing data equipment, GPS tracking and data logging systems or security applications.
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Audio, video and data patching solutions designed to seamlessly integrate into any pro audio, broadcast, or live sound application. Patchbays can play an important role in drone support systems, particularly in ground control stations, test environments, and AV payload management.
Options: Audio, Video, Data/Telecom
Data Patchbays: Drones rely heavily on data communication — for controls, telemetry, sensors, and video feeds. Switchcraft data patchbays are built to handle high-speed digital signals like Ethernet, serial communication, or other control protocols.
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