SP Series Medical-Grade Connectors for Patient Monitoring

M8 Connector

SP Series Medical Connectors for Patient Monitoring and Diagnostic Tools

The SP Series is a family of circular medical-grade connectors engineered for reliable power and signal transmission in patient monitoring, diagnostic imaging, and therapeutic equipment. Available in 2-26 pin configurations with male or female genders, these connectors use a screw-locking system and keyway polarization to ensure secure, error-proof mating in life-critical applications. This page helps engineers and procurement teams evaluate the SP Series against the electrical, mechanical, and environmental demands of their specific medical device.

Selecting the Right SP Model and Pin Configuration

Choosing the correct connector starts with matching the model's size and pin count to your device's power, signal, and data requirements. The SP Series offers a range of models and configurations to fit different application scales.

• SP11: Compact design for small-scale devices like wearable monitors.
• SP13: Versatile mid-size option for general medical equipment.
• SP17: High-performance model for diagnostic tools and surgical devices.
• SP21: Multi-functional connector for complex medical systems.
• SP25: Heavy-duty option for high-power medical equipment.
• SP29: High-pin-count model for advanced imaging and laboratory instruments.

For pin count, 2-3 pins suit power supply in portable devices, 5-9 pins fit basic diagnostic and monitoring equipment, and 12-24 pins support complex systems requiring simultaneous power, signal, and data transmission. Confirm the exact pin layout and contact arrangement with your device schematic.

Mating and Mounting Options for Device Integration

The SP Series provides flexible socket types to match your mechanical design and installation environment. Choose the mounting style that aligns with your device's enclosure, vibration profile, and serviceability needs.

• In-line cable sockets: For portable and handheld medical devices.
• Rear-nut mount sockets: Secure panel installation for stationary equipment.
• 2-hole/4-hole flange sockets: Stable mounting for high-vibration scenarios like medical pumps.
• PCB mount sockets: Integration with printed circuit boards for compact designs.

The screw-locking mechanism provides a vibration-resistant connection, while keyway polarization prevents misinsertion. For panel-mounted applications, verify the panel cutout dimensions and nut torque specifications against your enclosure design.

Environmental and Material Considerations for Medical Use

The SP Series is built with materials selected for medical environments. The housing is available in PC/PA66, the insulator uses PPS, and contacts are brass plated with gold. The connectors are rated IP68 when mated, offering protection against dust and water ingress. The operating temperature range is -40°C to +85°C.

While the source mentions suitability for sterilization, specific methods (autoclave, EO, gamma) and cycle counts are not verified. Confirm the required sterilization protocol and its compatibility with the housing and insulator materials for your specific application.

Electrical Performance and Signal Integrity

Gold-plated contacts minimize contact resistance, supporting accurate signal transmission for patient monitoring and diagnostic data. The rated current and voltage values are detailed in the Technical Specifications field. For high-pin-count configurations, consider the total current load and derating factors based on ambient temperature and connector density.

The connector is rated for 500+ mating cycles, providing a baseline for durability in reusable devices. For applications requiring frequent connection and disconnection, verify that the mating cycle rating aligns with your device's expected service life.

Suitable and Unsuitable Application Boundaries

Suitable for: Patient monitoring systems (ECG, blood pressure), diagnostic imaging equipment (ultrasound, X-ray), surgical instruments, portable emergency equipment, laboratory and IVD tools, and reusable medical devices.

Not suitable for: Applications requiring continuous submersion beyond the IP68 rating, environments with extreme temperatures outside the -40°C to +85°C range, or uses where the connector will be mated/unmated beyond its rated cycle life without inspection. For high-vibration applications, ensure the chosen mounting style (e.g., flange) is used and the screw-locking is properly torqued.

Inquiry Checklist for SP Series Connectors

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

• Required model (e.g., SP11, SP17) and pin count.
• Gender (plug or socket) and mounting style (in-line, rear-nut, flange, PCB).
• Rated current and voltage requirements.
• Cable outer diameter and conductor size for cable assembly.
• Operating temperature range and environmental exposure (e.g., sterilization method).
• Mechanical constraints: panel thickness, mounting hole pattern, and mating space.
• Quantity and target delivery timeline.

Related Medical Connector Solutions

For other medical device connectivity needs, explore the SP17 Medical Circular Connector for Portable Ultrasound Equipment and the SP21 Waterproof Connector for Patient Monitors. For a broader view of our medical connector range, see the M8 Connector catalog.