SSlmixed.com Forum
Tech discussion => 4K,6K,8K Series => Topic started by: Showcase on August 27, 2025, 06:38:54 PM
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Hi!
I need help finding the correct male IDC connector fitted on the console side, that screws in the panel!
Is this the one https://www.cablejog.co.uk/50way-idc-header-male-254mm-x-254mm-c2x21916748 (https://www.cablejog.co.uk/50way-idc-header-male-254mm-x-254mm-c2x21916748)
Thanks in advance! 8)
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SSL first used the blue T&B all plastic connector for these S14E 50 way computer ribbon leads on the console about 1980 for a few years.
After that they used the more expensive 3M grey versions which had metal ends and a sticky substance on the top of the header to hold the 50 way ribbon in place before crimping.
Since then, Harting and other cheaper makes have been used by studios (but not SSL). If you use these, make sure that the chassis header connector is NOT sticking out of the console connector panel more about 1mm or so and use M3 screws and also M3 nuts and washers to space it off from the panel if that makes sense. Otherwise with a cheaper, all plastic connector being used you run the risk of the ends breaking off (at 1 and 50) and possibly ruining the connector.
If you use a cheaper connector without the sticky part, you could put some double sided tape on it and peel off the paper bit to just have the glue sticking to the upper part of the connector to hold it in place before crimping in a vice ... do that gently at either end until completely crimped and the pins will break through the thin sticky tape to make a connection with the main part of the connector.
Again, hope this makes sense and good luck. It's not complicated but takes a bit of preparation, that's all.
From a selfish point of view, I haven't had any work offered on SSL consoles since last year so, if you need any wiring done, get in contact. I used to work there from 1980 until 1987 so have a lot of history and experience, more than most people.
Based in Maidenhead, Bucks, UK.
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SSL first used the blue T&B all plastic connector for these S14E 50 way computer ribbon leads on the console about 1980 for a few years.
After that they used the more expensive 3M grey versions which had metal ends and a sticky substance on the top of the header to hold the 50 way ribbon in place before crimping.
Since then, Harting and other cheaper makes have been used by studios (but not SSL). If you use these, make sure that the chassis header connector is NOT sticking out of the console connector panel more about 1mm or so and use M3 screws and also M3 nuts and washers to space it off from the panel if that makes sense. Otherwise with a cheaper, all plastic connector being used you run the risk of the ends breaking off (at 1 and 50) and possibly ruining the connector.
If you use a cheaper connector without the sticky part, you could put some double sided tape on it and peel off the paper bit to just have the glue sticking to the upper part of the connector to hold it in place before crimping in a vice ... do that gently at either end until completely crimped and the pins will break through the thin sticky tape to make a connection with the main part of the connector.
Again, hope this makes sense and good luck. It's not complicated but takes a bit of preparation, that's all.
From a selfish point of view, I haven't had any work offered on SSL consoles since last year so, if you need any wiring done, get in contact. I used to work there from 1980 until 1987 so have a lot of history and experience, more than most people.
Based in Maidenhead, Bucks, UK.
Thanks for the tips, and a bit history, always nice, I always have troubles crimping these connectors :)
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I did some recently and bought a tester just to make sure they were correct. But practice makes perfect
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Yes. they can be difficult to crimp those 50 plastic IDC headers or even the free socket versions. It's all to do with taking your time and using a vice properly. I had a proper crimp tool but no more.
I would suggest putting some double sided tape on the top bit (not the main bigger version). The crimps will cut through this to make a connection.
Put the whole connector in a vice and gradually tighten it end BY end but make sure the 50 way cable is 45 degrees (square) to the main part before crimping otherwise you may have pin 1 merging into pin 2 etc (dificult to explain in writing).
I have done this many times before with inferior connectors without any glue. Just takes time otherwise you may ruin the whole connection and have to start again.
Hope this helps from Jim Lassen in Bucks, UK
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On a small connector, I just used a hammer. The bigger connector, I add a strip of wood and use a hammer. Never had a problem.