Waterproof 5-Pin Inline Connectors
Standard cable products generally tend to fail in really intense environments where dust, water, vibration, and temperatures can completely interrupt electrical connections. The NF5976-05PA waterproof 5-pin inline connector has the best power and signal transmission. It’s engineered with IP67 protection (with IP68 versions available, too!). These connectors combine environmental sealing with magnetic coupling convenience. Whether designing for automotive, marine, industrial, or medical equipment, these specialized connectors create reliable electrical installations for your project.
What are 5-Pin Waterproof Connectors?

Waterproof 5-pin inline connectors are special electromechanical devices designed for safe electrical connections in intense environments. The NF5976-05PA features five precision-aligned gold-plated pins in a high-temperature black plastic housing with magnetic coupling technology. These connectors provide complete protection against dampness and dust through epoxy resin coating and waterproof glue, guaranteeing reliable performance during temporary water immersion.
Technical Design Features
- North-South Pole Alignment: Magnetic polarity ensures perfect terminal alignment
- PCB Edge Mounting: Recommended PCB layout for optimal panel mount integration
- Oval Housing Design: Compact 17.60×7.60 mm profile minimizes footprint
- Chamfered Pin Design: 0.15°×45° chamfer prevents damage when making connections
Unlike conventional screw or solder designs, the NF5976-05PA’s magnetic system creates instant connections that resist vibration. Male and female components lock together securely while allowing quick intentional disconnection. This series is intended for permanent electrical installations requiring superior environmental sealing. These magnetic connectors share reliability principles with Promax Pogo Pin circular products, both designed for signal transmission integrity in demanding environments.
The History of Waterproof Connectors
The evolution of waterproof connectors spans decades of innovation. Early military-grade connectors from the 1950s used basic rubber gaskets, while the 1970s saw the introduction of O-ring seals for improved protection. The 1980s-1990s brought standardized IP ratings and miniaturization. Modern connectors like the NF5976-05PA represent the fifth generation of development, featuring advanced materials, precision manufacturing techniques, and sophisticated sealing technologies that far exceed the capabilities of previous designs while dramatically reducing size and installation complexity.
Why are Waterproof Magnetic Connectors Better than Traditional Threaded Models?

Waterproof magnetic connectors outperform traditional threaded models through innovative coupling that eliminates threading issues. The magnetic system creates perfect alignment instantly, preventing bent pins and cross-threading that plague conventional wire connector designs. These magnetic models reduce installation time by approximately 50%, allowing one-handed blind-mating even in confined spaces.
Key Advantages Over Threaded Connectors
- Protection from vibration damage: Magnetic coupling absorbs vibration
- No rotational alignment needed: Connection occurs on a single-axis
- Self-cleaning connection: Magnetic attraction repels contaminating particles
- Compatible with various AWG wire sizes: Accommodates industry-standard gauge wire
- No special tool requirements: Simple installation without specialized crimp tools
The magnetic coupling maintains stable connections in high-movement applications like automotive systems and industrial machinery, reducing wear through hundreds of connection cycles without performance degradation. The in-line design suits cable runs where panel mount options aren’t practical.
How does the IP67 Rating Protect Your Electrical Connections?
The IP67 rating guarantees complete protection against dust ingress and temporary water immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, with IP68 models available for more demanding applications. This international standard certification ensures waterproof connectors maintain electrical connections in challenging outdoor environments. Protection comes through a three-layer system:
- Exterior housing seal: High-temperature plastic housing (UL 94V-0 rated)
- Waterproof-glue boundary: IP67-grade waterproof glue creates a reliable seal
- Epoxy resin coating: Interior components receive additional protection
This triple-layer protection makes these connectors reliable in marine environments, outdoor industrial applications, and automotive systems. Internal components remain isolated from contaminants, preventing short circuits, corrosion, and signal degradation. For environments requiring protection beyond IP67, the IP68 series provides an excellent replacement option.
What Technical Specifications Make these Connectors Ideal for Harsh Environments?
| Specification | Value | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Current & Voltage | DC 12V; 2.0A | Powers most sensors and control systems |
| Contact Resistance | 50 mohm Maximum | Ensures minimal power loss and signal integrity |
| Operating Temperature | -25 °C~+85 °C | Functions across the automotive temperature range |
| Humidity Range | 10%RH~90%RH | Performs in environments from desert to tropical |
| Salt Spray Protection | 48 Hours | Withstands marine and coastal conditions |
| Pin Material | HB159 with Gold-plating | Superior conductivity and corrosion resistance |
| Magnetic Core | N52 grade magnet | Provides optimal connection retention force |
| Housing Color | Black | Professional appearance for visible installations |
Dimensional Specifications
- Overall Length: 17.60 mm
- Body Width: 7.60 mm
- Working Height: Pin extension of 2.50 mm
- Pin Diameter: Ø0.80 mm
- Pin Spacing: 1.50 mm intervals
- Lead Length: Customizable for application requirements
These specifications make the NF5976-05PA an ideal solution where traditional SP21 series connectors might fail due to environmental factors.
Which Industries Benefit Most from 5-Pin Waterproof Connectors?
Automotive manufacturers use 5-pin waterproof connectors for exterior lighting, engine sensors, and navigation equipment. The magnetic coupling mechanism reduces connection time while ensuring perfect alignment. Marine applications benefit from 48-hour salt spray resistance certification, making these connectors ideal for boat navigation systems and electric device connections in corrosive environments.
Connector Type Comparison
| Connector Type | Vibration Resistance | Connection Speed | Waterproof Rating | Best Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magnetic | Excellent (5/5) | Fastest (5/5) | IP67-IP68 | Automotive sensors, frequent disconnect needs |
| Threaded | Very Good (4/5) | Slow (2/5) | IP68-IP69K | Permanent underwater, high-pressure environments |
| Bayonet | Good (3/5) | Medium (3/5) | IP67 | Military equipment, secure connections |
| Push-Pull | Good (3/5) | Fast (4/5) | IP65-IP67 | Medical devices, clean environments |
Application-Specific Benefits
| Industry | Application | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Automotive | Engine sensors | Vibration resistance in high-movement areas |
| Marine | Navigation systems | Salt spray protection prevents corrosion |
| Industrial | Factory automation | Dust-proof design in manufacturing environments |
| Electronics | Outdoor devices | IP65 to IP68 ratings for varying requirements |
Industrial equipment uses these connectors where water, cleaning solutions, and dust are present. The 2-pin version serves simpler power transmission applications, while the full 5-pin model accommodates complex control signals. Smart communication systems benefit from the compact design for outdoor installations like traffic systems and security cameras where environmental protection is critical.
How does the Magnetic Coupling Mechanism Work?
The magnetic coupling mechanism uses aligned north-south pole magnets in both male and female connector halves. When connector halves approach, N52-grade magnet cores automatically orient for perfect pin alignment, eliminating bent pins or misconnection. The magnetic force provides optimal retention strength against vibration, while allowing intentional disconnection when needed.
Magnetic Coupling Process
- Approach phase: Connector halves brought within ~5 mm
- Attraction phase: Magnetic field pulls connectors into alignment
- Connection phase: Gold-plated pins mate with female socket
- Retention phase: Magnetic force maintains lock during operation
- Disconnection phase: Applied force overcomes magnetic attraction
Unlike threaded or screw terminal designs, this magnetic system allows single-axis connection, reducing connection time and virtually eliminating errors. The magnetic coupling also serves as a safety feature for applications requiring rapid disconnection.
What Makes the Gold-Plated Pin Design Superior?
The gold-plated pin design delivers superior electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance through multi-layer construction. Each HB159 pin features a nickel base layer (50-100 μ” thick) covered by 5.0″ gold, creating optimal conductivity and durability. This construction prevents oxidation in salt-laden or humid environments.
Pin Construction Details
- Base Material: HB159 high-conductivity copper alloy
- Underplating: 50-100 μ” Ni layer for corrosion barrier
- Surface Plating: 5.0″ MN gold layer for optimal conductivity
- Pin Diameter: Precision Ø0.80 mm for optimal contact pressure
- Pin Spacing: 1.50 mm center-to-center
- Pin Tip Design: 0.15°×45° chamfer for smooth connection
Gold’s conductivity maintains low contact resistance throughout the connector’s lifespan. The gold-nickel plating provides excellent wear resistance through hundreds of connection cycles. Precision machining with specific chamfer prevents damage during mating, extending product life in extreme environments.
How Easy is Installation in the Field?

Field installation requires minimal tools and expertise. The connectors feature straightforward wire termination with clear identification. Standard wire stripping tools prepare cables for connection, accepting wire gauges used in industrial and automotive applications.
Installation Process Advantages
- PCB Layout Guidance: Recommended PCB layout in technical documentation
- Visual Orientation Guides: North-South pole markings ensure correct orientation
- Single-Axis Connection: No rotation is required, simply align and connect
- Quick Disconnect: Easy separation for maintenance
- No Special Tools: Standard wire preparation tools sufficient
The connectors can be easily disconnected and reconnected without special tools, and magnetic coupling eliminates wear issues common with threaded connectors. Installation time is roughly half that of threaded alternatives, with both circular and inline versions available for different mounting requirements.
What Environmental Compliance Standards do these Connectors Meet?
The NF5976-05PA connectors are fully RoHS and HF compliant, meeting strict environmental safety regulations. RoHS compliance ensures freedom from hazardous substances, including lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, and certain flame retardants. The HF (Halogen-Free) certification enhances safety by eliminating halogens that release toxic compounds when incinerated.
These connectors also meet multiple international certification standards:
- IP67/IP68 Ratings: Part of the IEC 60529 system, where the first digit (6) indicates complete dust protection and the second digit (7/8) indicates water protection level
- UL Certification: Verifies compliance with North American safety standards for fire, electrical, and mechanical hazards
- CE Marking: Confirms conformity with European health, safety, and environmental protection standards
- RoHS (2011/65/EU): Restricts use of ten hazardous materials in electronics manufacturing
Connectors are available in various configurations beyond magnetic coupling, including threaded, bayonet-style, and push-pull locking mechanisms, each offering specific advantages for different applications.
Environmental Testing Certifications
- Salt Spray Testing: 48-hour certified resistance
- Temperature Cycling: Verified performance from -25 °C to +85 °C
- Humidity Resistance: Tested from 10%RH to 90%RH
- RoHS Compliance: All restricted substances below threshold limits
- Halogen-Free (HF): Zero halogenated flame retardants
These certifications simplify export documentation and regulatory approval processes for finished products, particularly important for medical devices and automotive applications.
Partner With Promax Pogo Pin for Unmatched Connector Solutions
Promax Pogo Pin delivers high-quality waterproof connectors with unmatched engineering expertise. Our waterproof magnetic connectors undergo rigorous testing, with 100% verification for environmental integrity, contact resistance, and mechanical performance. As a trusted brand, our products replace less durable connection solutions, with crimp, solder, and screw terminal options available.
Our vertically integrated manufacturing, technical pre-sales consultation, and global shipping make Promax Pogo Pin the trusted supplier for manufacturers in the automotive, industrial, medical, and communications industries. Contact our engineering team to enhance reliability in your challenging applications. Browse our related products for the ideal connector for your specific requirements.
Waterproof 5-Pin Inline Connectors FAQs
No, standard NF5976-05PA connectors are rated IP67, protecting against temporary immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. For permanent underwater applications, our IP68 waterproof series is required. The IP67 connectors perform excellently with frequent water exposure in marine decks, industrial washdown areas, and outdoor installations.
The connector uses magnetic coupling rather than friction-fit, requiring approximately 0.8-1.2N of force during the final connection. This is significantly less than traditional connectors, ideal for frequent connections or hard-to-reach locations. The magnetic system provides sufficient retention force while allowing easy disconnection when needed.
The magnetic connector demonstrates superior performance in high-vibration environments through a stress-absorbing design. Unlike threaded connectors, where vibration loosens connections, magnetic coupling dampens vibration effects. Testing shows stable contact resistance below 50 mohm even after 24-hour vibration exposure, valuable for automotive engine compartments, industrial machinery, and marine applications.





