QUICK ANSWER
Physical fit is not evidence of an approved connection. Specify the manufacturer and product family of both mating halves and check the approved cable and assembly requirements.
01Buy a connection system
The cable, contact, housing and mating counterpart work together. Similar-looking components can differ in contact geometry, sealing and materials. Stäubli specifically warns against cross-mating different connector brands; a generic “compatible” label should not replace a documented pairing.
02Check dimensions and assembly requirements
Confirm the conductor cross-section and cable outside diameter against the connector documentation. Then identify the required contact, crimp tool, preparation method and inspection process. Do not infer these from the cable colour or from a photograph of the finished connection.
For pre-terminated leads, ask who performs assembly and what records link the leads to cable and connector batches. This is particularly useful when leads come from a different supplier than the main cable order.
03Avoid substitutions arriving on site
State the agreed connector manufacturer and part numbers in the order. Require approval before changing any mating half. Keep the cable datasheet and assembly instructions with the delivery documents so the installation team can identify the intended system.
Before you send an enquiry
- Both mating halves: manufacturer and family
- Approved cross-section and outside diameter
- Contact, tooling and assembly documentation
- Pre-assembly inspection and batch traceability
References & further reading
An introductory buying guide, not a project design or a claim of certification. Confirm current standards, local requirements and the exact product documentation with the designer and supplier.