Quick disconnect for HLG Quantum boards

Hey guys,

I am going to be switching out to quantum boards and I have a need for a quick disconnect. My idea is to remote mount the ballast and use Nuetrik True1 power connectors in order to be able to swap out the boards.

For instance, I use a 4K board for veg and then swap to a 3K for flower. If I remote mount the ballast and hardwire, its a pain to change out and needs two ballasts since it would be soldered. If I use a power connector on the DC side, I can easily change out the board and use the same ballast. The cords will be under 10ft and large gauge, so very very little voltage drop.

These connectors are rated for AC power only, but I see no reason why it would not work with DC. It is rated for 20A AC power handling, so should be able to handle (1) QB288 extremely easy. They have a male and female connector that lock and twist together, waterproof too.

Basically, my question is aimed at someone knowledgable about this that could give me a reason why these connectors would not work for DC. Everything I read says DC and AC are no different in terms of power handling. For example, a cable that can handle 20A AC power can also handle 20A DC power.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/880859-REG/Neutrik_NAC3MX_powerCON_TRUE1_Power_Out.html?ap=y&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIzNXJ2-Lp3QIVkmV-Ch2vhgh5EAQYAyABEgLYGPD_BwE&smp=y

Thanks in advance!

I use cobs and I use the IEC 13/14 plug for something similar. They are ment for 250 volts 10 amp but I use them on the dc side for quick disconnect and they work great.
Ps I’m not an electrician
Good luck and happy growing

check the dc voltage/amps that the driver puts out and match the plug with it.
For example when one of my drivers is run at max power it puts out 179 volts but the IEC 13 is rated at 250 volts max
Good luck and happy growing

Not sure about your connector but another option is bullet connectors like are used with rc vehicles, they have various sizes to handle different loads

On the DC vs. AC thing you will be fine (notice how they don't sell AC wire or DC wire). The only thing that sticks out is that they are for 12ga wire, that might be a bit overkill and did you notice that these are made to attach to something like this.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/880860-REG/Neutrik_nac3px_NAC3MPX_powerCON_TRUE1_Power_In.html

I would probably look for something else. Perhaps something like this.

https://www.alliedelec.com/te-connectivity-776427-3/70084745/

buyyouabeer said:

On the DC vs. AC thing you will be fine (notice how they don't sell AC wire or DC wire). The only thing that sticks out is that they are for 12ga wire, that might be a bit overkill and did you notice that these are made to attach to something like this.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/880860-REG/Neutrik_nac3px_NAC3MPX_powerCON_TRUE1_Power_In.html

I would probably look for something else. Perhaps something like this.

https://www.alliedelec.com/te-connectivity-776427-3/70084745/

Click to expand...

Thanks! They actually make a male and female version that plug in together. Normal application would be extending power runs on stages and events. They plug into each other and twist lock together. I am only running 120V max with about 3A of current. I know 12 gauge is overkill but I like overgauging wires....its a problem I have. =)

Also considering one of these: https://www.amazon.com/TRIPP-P036-010-15A-Heavy-Extension-C19-C20/dp/B019C84RHM

Its rated at 250V 15A

I wanted to avoid a standard 3 prong AC type plug so there is no chance of someone accidently plugging it into a wall outlet.

Thanks for the input everyone!