A new online connector selection platform helps engineers narrow interconnect choices using electrical, mechanical, environmental, and mounting requirements while generating relevant specifications and CAD models.
Harwin has introduced an online Connector Selector tool designed to simplify connector specification during electronics design and prototyping. Instead of requiring engineers to begin with connector series names or part numbers, the platform uses a guided, visual interface to narrow choices based on application requirements.
The tool allows users to specify key electrical and mechanical parameters, including contact count, current or power per contact, contact pitch, connector type, configuration, mounting method, termination style, operating environment, and mechanical requirements. These inputs can be modified during the selection process, enabling the available configurations to be progressively narrowed.
This approach addresses a common challenge in interconnect selection: identifying a suitable connector from large product portfolios while balancing electrical performance, mechanical constraints, environmental conditions, and PCB integration requirements. Recent Harwin surveys of engineers in Europe and the US found that more than half of respondents involved in connector specification and procurement expect their roles to become more complex over the coming year.
Technology and design benefits
Once the required parameters are entered, the selector identifies relevant connector configurations and corresponding part numbers. Engineers can then access associated datasheets, technical drawings, product specifications, and 3D CAD models from the same workflow.
A notable feature is the generation of real-time CAD renderings, allowing designers to examine connector geometry before downloading models for integration into mechanical or PCB design environments. This can reduce the need to manually search across multiple product pages and technical documents during early-stage design.
For prototyping teams, the ability to move directly from application requirements to a specific connector configuration can also help accelerate component evaluation and mechanical design validation.
The selector complements Harwin’s existing digital resources, including its virtual showroom, cable configurator, availability checker, and downloadable CAD models available through platforms such as Supplyframe and TraceParts.
For electronics engineers, the platform effectively shifts connector selection from a part-number-driven search toward a requirement-driven workflow, potentially making interconnect selection easier during schematic, PCB, mechanical integration, and prototype development stages.
