6 Differences between MC4 and MC4-Evo 2 Connectors
What are the differences between MC4 and MC4-Evo 2 cable connectors? Which product is suitable and optimal for solar energy projects?
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In the photovoltaic sector, manufacturers are always looking for ways to keep losses to a minimum and increase the level of protection for connectors against weather impacts. Therefore, the MC4 and MC4-Evo 2 cable connectors from Stäubli are important in performing these tasks. In our latest ACADEMY episode, the features, and differences between these two cable connectors will be shared in detail so that you can make the optimal choice for your solar energy project.
MC4 Cable Connector
The MC4 Cable Connector is a popular product used in photovoltaic systems. The "MC" in "MC4" stands for Multi-Contact, the manufacturer, and the number 4 represents the contact pin diameter of 4mm.
The MC4 Cable Connector creates a difference in the market thanks to the MULTILAM contact technology developed by Swiss engineers. This connector aims to maintain good contact and low loss during operation, ensuring the durability and long-term stability of the system.
Typically, this product is used for solar energy systems with DC voltage up to 1000V, even up to 1500V. In addition, the MC4 cable connector also meets standards for contact resistance, chemical resistance, and water resistance according to IP68 (1m, 1h)/IP65, and has certifications such as TÜV, UL, CSA, widely used in the European market, as well as worldwide.
You can refer to the technical information on the MC4 Cable Connector in the table below.
| Technical Data | |
| Ambient temperature range | -40°C... +85°C (TÜV/UL) |
| Upper limiting temperature | 105°C |
| Category | CAT III |
| Max. contact resistance of the connector | 0.25 mΩ |
| Maximum current rating (acc. IEC 62852) | 45A |
| Insulation material | PC/PA |
| Degree of protection | IP68 (1m, 1h)/IP65 |
| Degree of protection, unmated | IP2X |
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MC4-Evo 2 Cable Connector
The MC4-Evo 2 Cable Connector is a superior version compared to MC4 in terms of technical specifications. You can refer to the technical specifications below.
| Technical Data | |
| Ambient temperature range | -40°C ... +85°C (IEC/UL) |
| Upper limiting temperature | 115°C (IEC) |
| Category | CAT III/3 |
| Max. contact resistance of the connector | < 0.2 mΩ |
| Maximum current rating (acc. IEC 62852) | 69A |
| Insulation material | PA |
| Degree of protection | IP65/IP68 (1m, 1h) |
| Degree of protection, unmated | IP2X |
Comparison of MC4 and MC4-Evo 2 Cable Connectors
| No. | Criteria | MC4 | MC4-Evo 2 | NOTE |
| 1 | DC 1500 V certified (TUV / UL / JET) | N/A | Yes | |
| 2 | Maximum current rating | 45A | 69A | according to IEC 62852 |
| 3 | Upper limiting temperature | 105°C | 115°C | |
| 4 | Max. contact resistance of the connector | 0.25 mΩ | 0.2 mΩ | |
| 5 | Insulation material | PC/PA | PA | |
| 6 | Salt mist spray test & ammonia resistant | N/A | Yes |
Therefore, from these comparisons, we can see that the MC4 and MC4-Evo 2 cable connectors have their own advantages. It cannot be denied that the MC4-Evo 2 cable connector is superior and suitable for many higher requirements of photovoltaic systems.
If you want to learn more about the importance of the MC4 cable connector in photovoltaic systems, you can review the sharing of Mr. Joseph Yang - an expert from Stäubli in our Episode 2 Podcast HERE.
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