MIL-DTL-38999 Connectors - A History
The MIL-DTL-38999 is one of the most popular and best-selling connectors. From tactical radio sets to 5G cellphone towers, the MIL-DTL-38999 (also referred to as D-38999 or simply 38999) has continued to gain traction as the preferred component to power up devices and aircraft carriers across multiple industries.
Like any standard circular connector, the MIL-DTL-38999 connector is a component used to establish electrical contact, to transfer electricity within a device, vehicle, or similar equipment that relies on electricity. What distinguishes the 38999 is how it was developed over half a century ago and became a universal standard in the interconnect world. In this article, we break down the history of how the 38999 came to be and how it’s used today.
MIL-DTL-38999: The History
The history of the MIL-DTL-38999 connector started with the U.S. military, postdating World War I, but just in time for World War II. Aiding the U.S. in their avionic efforts on the cusp of WW II was the Douglas Aircraft Company, along with The Boeing Company and The Vega Company (Douglas and Boeing would later merge companies). The Douglas Company looked for an enhanced version of circular connectors—one suited to withstand more than conducting electricity to an entertainment system, but one that could bear the necessary functions of a war machine. The interconnect company, ITT Cannon, was commissioned by Douglas Aircraft Company at just 15 years in the business to design a circular connector that could thoroughly support their carriers. They created the MIL-C-5015 connector, which effectively supports tactical applications like Douglas DC-1, DC-2, and DC-6. This design would be the standard that similar connectors would follow and model after.
Douglas DC-6 ear WWII
Aircraft engine, used to power Douglas DC-6
Throughout the ’50s and '60s, the MIL-DTL-5015 had been the standard for connectors. However, improvement needs arose for different military branches as specifications rose, and the MIL-DTL-38999 came to be, or as it was then named, the MIL-C-38999. The newly developed 38999 connector suits not only the standards for rigorous military activity—but also suits the specific needs for each branch, sporting less contact, insert layouts with higher density, and much more. The standards for these connectors continued to demand improvement, including better water-proof capabilities, rust resistance, lighter weight, and more. Decades of development have created the MIL-DTL-38999 of today, trusted not only by the U.S. government and military but for many industries worldwide that rely on reliable interconnect technology.
Who Uses MIL-DTL-38999 Connectors?
With their roots firmly planted in the demanding environment and ever-changing world of military specifications, the 38999 inevitably became the go-to across multiple markets that regularly rely on interconnects and related components. Numerous commercial industries now use the 38999 connectors thanks to continued improvements with valued and sturdy designs, high efficiency, and various customizable options.
Professionals in manufacturing, aerospace, aeronautical, and other related corporations understand the risks involved with handling equipment in their field. Risks that would otherwise cause problems to connectors—like chipped receptacles and loose seals: are greatly minimized thanks to many manufacturers adhering to the efficient, standardized design of the MIL-DTL-38999.
Why the 38999?
The MIL-DTL-38999 connector began as a U.S. military standard product, which many associated with high quality and solid construction. A few attributes that make the 38999 a viable selection for powering up commercial and military devices include its ability to:
- Withstand extreme heat
- Withstand extreme cold
- Resist moisture
- Resist corrosion
- And many more capabilities
These high-demand qualities make the 38999 connector an easy selection when it comes to choosing components to manufacture electro-mechanical equipment.
Additionally, the options within selecting a 38999 connector are numerous. Both military and commercial corporations rely on sections to determine which variation of the 38999 connector they need to order. These sections are laid out as follows:
- Military/Commercial
- Series
- Shell Type
- Material and Finish
- Shell Size
- Insert Arrangement
- Contact Type
- Keying Position
Each of these sections allows the buyer to choose the correct connector in accordance with their respective specifications. We’ll cover the ordering process of a 38999 connector in-depth in a future article.
In Conclusion
Small in size, yet large in its ability to bring today’s electronic equipment to optimal performance level component is the MIL-DTL-38999. From being designed to power World War II aircrafts to powering today’s industry essentials, like economy flights, the 38999 has rightly made its way to be the electronic professional’s choice of circular connectors. Continuous development of this high-demand component will allow for it to remain the industry standard for corporations for years and years to come.
Selection of Amphenol 38999 connector receptacles and plugs