Butt splice PSU wires

[coljarcker]

hi, can I use regular butt splice connectors on power supply wires or will it add significant resistance to the lines? I mean ones like these: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=350323356622&ssPageName=STRK:MESE:IT

also, if it's okay to use them, what gauge should I be using, or what is typical psu cabling gauge?

thanks

 

[erocker]

What are you doing that would require butt splicing into your PSU wires? I wouldn't even bother attempting doing such a thing unless you are fixing something that is broken.

 

[coljarcker]

the question is not why, the question is whether or not it will add resistance or if there is any other specific reason not to. if it's a bad idea, I understand but would like some reliable sources and specific reasons why.

but yes some of it is for repairs, some for customizing

 

[erocker]

Well, most PSU's seem to use 8 guage wire. Most PSU's are also designed in a fashion that there are not to be customized, however with a multimeter, you could find a line that you could add to if it is supplying enough juice. That's about as far as my knowledge goes on the subject. I would suggest starting a thread in the "Cases Modding and Electronics" section with some sort of a plan as for what you want to do. There are a couple guys here that are electrical geniuses.

 

[coljarcker]

thank you! sorry, should have posted in that section. I did not realize those psu wires were that thick either

 

[blkhogan]

It "can" be done, but I would not recommend it. Ive been working in the electrical trades for about 10 years. So Ive seen just about everything. Butt connectors are fine if used in the right applications. This would not be one. PC components are very sensitive to amp and voltage changes. If you can get a good tight connection you should be fine but if you dont.... you will know it real fast. I would not recommend using connectors on your main "rails".

 

[coljarcker]

It "can" be done, but I would not recommend it. Ive been working in the electrical trades for about 10 years. So Ive seen just about everything. Butt connectors are fine if used in the right applications. This would not be one. PC components are very sensitive to amp and voltage changes. If you can get a good tight connection you should be fine but if you dont.... you will know it real fast. I would not recommend using connectors on your main "rails".

thank you hogan, any recommendations for alternative ways to shorten, extend, and repair wires for various purposes? maybe i'm just obsessive compulsive but i like to be able to put wires exactly where i want them and to modify as needed without having to buy overpriced adapters and the like.

what about those liquid-filled connectors? i'll see if i can find a link.

 

[pantherx12]

If you want to shorten the cables just remove the wires from the plug ends, cut the wires, put back into plugs and win at life!

Use something like this to make the job easier

http://www.sunbeamtech.com/PRODUCTS/PSU MODDING TOOL KIT/PSU MODDING TOOL KIT.html

 

[blkhogan]

If you want to shorten the cables just remove the wires from the plug ends, cut the wires, put back into plugs and win at life!

This would be how I would do it. You can get new "push pin" kits for cheap on good "mod" websites. Cut your wires to you desired length then put new pins (male or female) on the ends. That would be your best and safest bet.
MKmods would be a great wealth of info on something like this. Hes done it all.

 

[MKmods]

thank you! sorry, should have posted in that section. I did not realize those psu wires were that thick either

they arent, I think he meant to say 18ga (some are 16). Making but connectors are fine as long as you solder them and cover with shrink tubing.

The crimp connectors can work but there is a chance of a poor connection so its really not worth taking the chance.

The best way is how Panther mentioned

.

what about those liquid-filled connectors? i'll see if i can find a link.

those are designed for home/industrial wiring that will be exposed to the elements. there is no reason for using them in a comp.

 

[erocker]

they arent, I think he meant to say 18ga (some are 16). Making but connectors are fine as long as you solder them and cover with shrink tubing.

The crimp connectors can work but there is a chance of a poor connection so its really not worth taking the chance.

The best way is how Panther mentioned

Yes, that is it. My guage thinking was backwards. Some things I just never learn.

 

[Velvet Wafer]

i dont know if it fits here,
but have you thought of deans connectors?
they are useable up until 30 amps, i believe, and they have a very,very tight fit. sometimes, too tight, i find they are not very small tho (but they have a micro variant too)
Normal Deans:

Micros: