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Both were widely used in the computer industry and the term "Molex connector" is often inaccurately used to refer to all nylon plugs and receptacles. The AMP connector was similar to the patented Molex connectors but not interchangeable. In October 1963, AMP (now TE Connectivity) introduced the Mate-n-Lok connector. Molex Disk Drive Power Connection System tool and connectors Because the pins have a large contact surface area and fit tightly, these connectors are typically used for power. The 1.57 mm pin can carry 5 A of current, while the 2.36 mm can carry 8.5 A. Pins and sockets can be arranged in any combination in a single housing, and each housing can be either male or female. The connector typically has 2 to 24 contacts and is polarized or keyed to ensure correct orientation. The pins and sockets are held in a rectangular matrix in a nylon shell. In such a connector, cylindrical spring-metal pins fit into cylindrical spring-metal sockets.
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First used in home appliances, other industries soon began designing it into their products from automobiles to vending machines to minicomputers. Molex developed and patented the first examples of this connector style in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Pioneered by Molex Connector Company, the two-piece design became an early electronic standard. Molex connector is the vernacular term for a two-piece pin and socket interconnection. AMP Mate-n-Lok and Molex Standard 0.093-inch pin and socket power connectors
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