Detailed Decode: Solar Photovoltaic Connector MC4 Extension Cord

What is the MC4 Parallel To Connectors ?

MC4 Connectors are incredibly common on solar panels. Generally, on most solar panels, there are two wires coming off the back of the panel and terminating with a male and female MC4 parallel connector.MC4 parallel is no stranger to pv practitioners, and it has almost become synonymous with pv connectors.  MC4 parallel can be found in modules, bus and inverters and other important components of photovoltaic power generation, which are responsible for the successful connection of power stations.  

 By the end of 2015, China's cumulative installed pv capacity was 43.18GW, ranking first in the world.  With the consumption of about 4,200 pv connectors for 1MW, there are currently about 180 million installed in China.  In terms of risk, that means there are at least 180 million risk points that need to be monitored by different plant owners.  

Despite this, the widget is often overlooked during the design, construction and operation phases of the plant.  Investigate its reason, with everybody to MC4 understanding has very big relation.  
 
Maybe it's time to get to know MC4 again! 

A brief history of MC4 parallel 
For photovoltaic connectors, 1996 and 2002 were two very important years.  These two time points also coincide with the key development nodes of the photovoltaic industry.  Although photovoltaic connectors did not accompany the photovoltaic industry, but its emergence on the rapid rise of photovoltaic installations played a greater role in promoting. 

Before 1996, pv cables were connected by screw terminals or splice connections.  As the number of photovoltaic system installations increases, there is a growing need for fast, safe and easy-to-operate connection solutions.  
 
Because photovoltaic systems are exposed to wind, rain, sun, and extreme temperature changes, connectors must be able to adapt to these harsh environments.  They must not only be water-resistant, heat-resistant and uv weather-resistant, but also touch protected, highly current-carrying and efficient.  Also, low contact resistance is an important consideration.  All of this must continue throughout the life cycle of the photovoltaic system, at least 20 years.  

A Revolution For MC connectors Coming!

In 1996, based on these application environments and market requirements, a new plug-in connector emerged, which is the world's first true photovoltaic connector -- MC3.  It was invented by Swiss company Multi-Contact (merged into Staubli group in 2002 as its electric connector brand), MC stands for brand abbreviation, and 3 is the diameter of the metal core.  The MC3 body is made of TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) and is physically connected by friction fit.  More importantly, the connection system of MC3 adopts MULTILAM technology to ensure the lasting stability of the connection.  Subsequently, many connector vendors have mimicked MULTILAM technology.
 
In 2002, the MC4 paralle redefined the PV connector once again with its true "Plug and play" approach.  The insulation is made of rigid plastics (PC/PA) and is designed to be easy to assemble and install in the field.  MC4 paralle quickly gained market recognition and gradually became the standard for photovoltaic connectors.  Many manufacturers call their connectors "××MC4 parallel". If you search for MC4 on Alibaba.com, you can get about 44,000 related products, which shows the strong market influence of MC4 parallel. How To Make MC4 Connectors (For Wiring Your Camper Solar Panels)This Video about MC4 paralle definitely will help you let you know MC4 parallel more.  

 
MC4 parallel With the change of market demand, MC4 parallel-evo2 and MC4 parallel-evo3 series have been launched.  The MC4 parallel series of connectors have been fully capable of meeting customer requirements for 1500V Photovoltaic system.