Reliability Evaluation Criteria for Cylindrical Electrical Pin and Socket Contacts

This paper presents some of the more common failure modes of electrical connectors and describes three basic qualification tests used by military contractors. It outlines design criteria essential for increased reliability of cylindrical pin and socket contacts, and relates these to users\´ needs. Included is a discussion of the new "floating plate" configuration, specifically designed to meet these criteria. New approaches to contact evaluation are detailed.