Page 27 - ConnectorSupplier.com 2019 How-to-Specify E-Book

is verified using a jointed metal test probe designed to simulate a small human finger and governed by dimensions specified in the standard. In touch- proof testing, a connector’s electrical contacts are attached to one pole of a continuity meter and the test probe is attached to the other pole. The test probe is then applied to the connector from every conceivable angle of entry. If no electrical continuity occurs during the probing process, the connector is deemed touch-proof compliant.
Test probes defined by the IEC and designed to simulate a small human finger are used to test connectors for touch-proof compliance.
Locking Mechanisms
For additional safety, the IEC prescribes locking mechanisms designed to
prevent accidental disconnections that could disrupt medical procedures.
Locking mechanisms often compete for space with electrical connections
and are available in many styles — including button-activated thumb latches,
twist-action rotary locks, and popular, passive, push/pull locking systems that
integrate latching mechanisms into the mating mechanism, eliminating the secondary action required by other options — to help mitigate the design challenges they present.
Passive, push/pull locking mechanisms provide best-in-class functionality. These mechanisms engage with normal, low-force mating (left), prevent the receptacle from accidentally releasing, even if the cord is pulled (center), and are easy to unmate (right).
IEC 60601 Compliant Connectors
Some connectors can employ simple approaches to the challenges of IEC 60601 requirements. For instance, when the total number of contacts is fairly low, simply spacing the pins at the required values accomplishes the task.
This custom connector is approximately one inch in diameter, an ergonomically comfortable size, and can accept up to 40 pins.
Test probes defined by the IEC and designed to simulate a small human finger are used to test connectors for touch-proof compliance.
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