What are Bayonet Connectors?

By AJ Born | November 29, 2022

Meet the Connector: Bayonet Connector

Versatile and secure bayonet connectors are useful for a wide range of markets and applications.

Bayonet connectors are a circular connector that delivers a secure and easy to operate connection by turning the locking ring until it latches into the mechanism. This standardized locking type allows for faster and more secure connections, compared to screw and push-fit connectors. It is often referred to as a “quick-disconnect” connector because complete coupling or decoupling is achieved with a quick one-third turn of the coupling nut.

Rather than threads, bayonet coupling uses bayonet pins and ramps to mate. The most common approach has three equally spaced passivated stainless steel bayonet pins on the receptacle’s perimeter. The pins slide through undercut ramps on the plug’s coupling ring into locking detents. Tactile, audible (clicks), and visual (markings) means confirm the connector is mated securely. For added strength, some plastic connectors may have a metal coupling nut. Bayonet connectors are used to transmit either power or signal.

A reverse-bayonet coupling configuration is often used in connectors that previously involved threaded coupling. The bayonet pins are on the underside of the coupling nut. The reverse bayonet coupling arrangement provides easy mating and un-mating, requiring only 120 ̊ rotation, with audible, tactile, and visual indications of positive coupling.

Bayonet connectors are used to connect two cables or to connect a cable to another connector, such as BNC, C, and ST connectors.

The versatility of the bayonet makes it useful for different product series (e.g., subminiature, miniature, and power categories), as well as for a variety of applications (e.g., medical equipment, outdoor, and heavy machinery). The bayonet’s secure mating makes it ideal for applications that require resistance to moisture, or shock and vibration.

binder bayonet connector NCC

binder’s most innovative bayonet connector is the NCC (Not Connected Closed) connector. The NCC series 770 is a reliable circular connector in cable and flange versions with bayonet locking corresponded to protection class IP67 when mated. The panel-mount version offers IP67 protection even when unmated. 770 series connectors have eight gold-plated contacts with a rated current of 2 A each. Cable glands are suitable for cables with a diameter of 2.5 to 4 mm, 4 to 6 mm, and 6 to 8 mm. Users can expect more than 5,000 mating cycles. Also available is the Bayonet NCC connector Series 670 (subminiature)

COAX Connectors Bayonet Lock IP68 Crimp/Crimp Plug

COAX Connectors Bayonet Lock IP68 Crimp/Crimp Plug uses the technology of a BNC and the interface of a SMA with a bullet contact to create a unique bayonet lock plug connector with internal IP68 sealing.

Markets, Sectors, and Applications

Bayonet connectors are use in a wide range of markets, including Transportation, Medical, and MIL-Aero, and for a variety of applications including aircraft, off-road vehicles, construction machinery, industrial devices, and Test & Measurement.

Suppliers

Amphenol Aerospace (supplied by Mouser Electronics), binder, COAX Connectors, Hirose Electric (supplied by Mouser), ITT Cannon (supplied by PEI-Genesis), Phoenix Contact, TE Connectivity (supplied by Mouser)

ITT Cannon bayonet

ITT Cannon’s CA Bayonet is a versatile and extremely reliable connector series with a proven “reverse bayonet” coupling design.

Related Products

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AJ Born
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