This connector was developed by Amphenol in 1950 to provide rugged heavy duty interconnections where larger gauge wires must be used and size is not a limiting factor. Based on one of the oldest and most reliable mechanical principles, the wedge, Amphenol Blue Ribbon connectors provide positive mating action in rack & panel, cable to chassis and cable to cable applications. They are used extensively in industrial controls, test equipment, communication equipment and a wide variety of control devices. Blue Ribbon connectors are available as inserts with molded-in plates with either pin or barrier polarization: barrier polarization types with keyed shells and latch type housings with side or end cable outlets.
The unique gold plated “ribbon” like contacts used in this style of connector provide high individual contact pressure combined with low insertion and extraction force requirements. Positive contact under vibration and good wiping action are other advantages of the spring contact construction of Blue Ribbon contacts. Male contacts are supported for their full length by their dielectric material; female contacts are recessed and fully protected. Contact terminals accommodate up to #16 stranded conductors.
Diallyl phthalate is the dielectric material used in all Blue Ribbon connectors. It is the blue color of this material that lead to the designation of “Blue Ribbon” for this style of connector. This material combines the specific requirements of nearly perfect dimensional stability, high insulation resistance in the presence of high temperature and high arc resistance. Not being dependant on contact arrangement, visual alignment is unnecessary and the ribbon contact principle itself eliminates the possibility of bent contacts that prevent or make plug-in difficult. These qualities are just a few of the reasons why this style has become a popular choice with engineers.