Performance classification for electrical connections using ASTM B868

ASTM 868 is a standard that provides a format for specifying or reporting contact performance of electrical connection systems. It is intended to facilitate communication between users and suppliers with respect to electrical connection quality beyond the level of minimum pass/fail acceptance test statements. The standard statement consists of a performance classification based on electrical resistance (contact resistance or connection resistance) before and after life test, a sample-to-sample variability index, and a reference to the applied life test. The method is applicable to both signal and power connections, and it is flexible enough to accommodate standard and special test sequences. This paper provides an explanation of the method and an example of its use.