GX16 Circular Connector for Aerospace Avionics and Flight Control

RF Connector Types, Materials, and Electrical Specs

GX16 Circular Connector for Aerospace Avionics

The GX16 circular connector is designed for aerospace systems, including avionics and flight control equipment. It provides stable electrical connections in critical applications where vibration, temperature variation, and space constraints are common. This page helps engineers and procurement teams evaluate the GX16 series against their specific mounting, termination, and environmental requirements.

Key Selection Considerations for the GX16 Series

Before specifying the GX16 connector, confirm the following variables against your application requirements:

• Pin count and gender: Available in 2 to 10 pin configurations, in male or female versions. Verify the mating interface and pin layout against your cable or panel assembly.
• Termination method: Supports solder or crimp termination. Confirm which method matches your assembly process and field service capability.
• Mounting style: Determine whether your design requires a cable plug, panel socket, or chassis mount, and confirm the mating thread size.
• Environmental limits: Rated for -30°C to +85°C operation. Confirm that this range covers your installation environment, including any non-operating extremes.

Construction and Material Properties

The GX16 connector uses a zinc alloy housing with nickel plating, providing mechanical strength and corrosion resistance suitable for demanding environments. The contact cores are brass with silver or gold plating, which supports signal integrity in repeated mating cycles. The insulator material is selected for stable electrical performance across the rated temperature range.

For avionics and flight control systems, the combination of plated contacts and a rigid housing helps maintain connection stability under mechanical stress. However, the suitability of this connector for a specific aircraft system depends on the full electrical and environmental specification, not on the housing material alone.

Application Fit and Boundaries

The GX16 series is commonly considered for avionics navigation, radar systems, and flight control modules where space is limited and a secure circular interface is required. Its compact design and multiple pin count options make it adaptable to different signal and low-power distribution tasks.

This connector is not suitable for high-current power distribution, high-frequency RF signal transmission, or applications requiring sealed waterproof performance while unmated. For those requirements, confirm the IP rating and electrical limits in the Technical Specifications before selection.

Installation and Integration Guidance

When preparing for installation, verify the following before ordering:

• Cable diameter and conductor size to confirm compatibility with the selected pin contacts.
• Whether solder or crimp termination is preferred for your production environment.
• Panel cutout dimensions and mounting thread details for panel-mount versions.
• Mating thread size and locking mechanism to ensure secure engagement in high-vibration areas.

Quality and Reliability Considerations

The GX16 connector is built with precision pin alignment and tight tolerances to support consistent signal integrity. The nickel-plated zinc alloy shell and plated brass contacts are selected for corrosion resistance and repeated mating. For aerospace applications, confirm that the connector's electrical ratings and temperature range meet your system specification, and verify the mating cycle requirement for your maintenance schedule.

Information to Include in Your Inquiry

To receive an accurate quotation and configuration recommendation, provide the following details:

• Required pin count and gender (male or female).
• Termination preference: solder or crimp.
• Cable type, conductor gauge, and outer diameter.
• Mounting requirement: cable, panel, or chassis mount.
• Operating temperature range and any vibration or environmental exposure details.
• Quantity and target delivery schedule.

For related high-reliability circular connector options, review the 12G Series Circular Connectors or consult the RF Connector Types, Materials, and Electrical Specs guide for additional selection criteria.