SOLARLOK PV4+ DC Crimp Connectors

Question: What is the difference between TE Connectivity’s (TE) SOLARLOK PV4+ and other SOLARLOK connectors?

Answer: The SOLARLOK PV4+ crimp-style connector is designed for 14–10 AWG / 8–6 AWG (2.5 – 6 mm²) photovoltaic higher-voltage cable applications for 2 kV DC. The SOLARLOK PV5 connector supports larger cable sizes, accommodating 8–6 AWG (10 – 16 mm²) conductors for higher-current applications. The SOLARLOK 2.0 connector is intended for similar cable sizes as the PV4+, and its key differentiator is the installation method. SOLARLOK 2.0 connector is designed for fast, easy field installation with fewer assembly steps. 

Question: Do TE SOLARLOK 2.0 DC connectors and PV4+ connectors have the same interface?

Answer: Yes, they do. All our SOLARLOK PV connectors have a standard solar interface. They all share the same mating interface, supporting compatibility across the product range, and are certified to UL 6703 and IEC 62852 standards for photovoltaic connectors. This lets customers choose the connector that best fits their cable size and installation requirements while maintaining high performance and reliability.

Question: Once locked and used, can the TE SOLARLOK PV4+ connector be unlocked and reused?

Answer: SOLARLOK PV4+ connectors can be safely unlocked using the appropriate disconnect tool and remated to compatible connectors during maintenance, inspection, or system reconfiguration. However, like other photovoltaic connectors on the market, a connector that has already been terminated and installed on a cable should not be removed and reinstalled on a different cable. 

Question: What is the minimum and maximum insulation thickness allowable in the TE SOLARLOK PV4+ connector?

Answer: TE SOLARLOK PV4+ connectors are designed for use with standard photovoltaic cables compliant with EN 50618/IEC 62930 and UL 4703 specifications. For cable sizes 2.5 mm² to 6 mm² (14 AWG–10 AWG), the connector is qualified for cable outer diameters ranging from 5.8 mm to 7.2 mm. Using cables within this specified diameter range helps ensure proper sealing, mechanical retention, and long-term electrical performance. 

Question: What is the estimated product lifetime of TE SOLARLOK PV4+ connectors?

Answer: Our SOLARLOK PV4+ connectors have successfully passed IEC and UL standard testing. IEC tests are conducted under European standard weather conditions to demonstrate that the connectors can provide a reliable connection even in harsh environments. Based on accelerated aging and environmental testing, the SOLARLOK PV4+ connector is designed to support the typical long-term expectations of photovoltaic installations, which commonly exceed 25 years when installed and operated according to TE Connectivity's specifications and applicable industry standards. 

Question: Is the SOLARLOK PV4+ connector water-resistant?

Answer: Yes. The SOLARLOK PV4+ connector has been tested and qualified to IP68 ingress protection requirements, demonstrating high resistance to water and dust ingress. As part of IP68 testing, the connector is submerged 1 meter underwater for 24 hours while maintaining its sealing integrity and performance. When properly assembled and mated according to TE Connectivity's installation instructions, the SOLARLOK PV4+ connector provides a reliable environmental seal that helps protect the electrical connection in demanding outdoor photovoltaic applications. This robust sealing capability contributes to the connector's long-term reliability in environments exposed to rain, humidity, and other challenging weather conditions.