Complete solutions to achieve your vision! Rediscover the time-tested FCT D-Sub connector system from Molex

D-Sub Connectors15 Jul 2025
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What features that made the D-Subminiature connector so useful in the 1960s are still important today? Find out now in our latest Tech Snack video with Molex.

D-Subminiature connectors have been providing electronics engineers with reliable service for more than 6 decades.  When introduced, they were a revolution in connector technology.  With their low-profile design and multiple pin-count options, they were a breath of fresh air for hard-pressed electronic design engineers.  Over the years, D-Subs have been joined by an array of alternative products, but they continue to be popular.

A collection of various electronic connectors and adapters displayed on a white background. The assortment includes metallic and plastic components with visible pins and ports, such as a red 9-pin connector and green multi-pin configurations. The connectors vary in design and functionality, suitable for diverse electronic applications.

Suitable for a range of applications across multiple industries, D-sub connectors are commonly used in industrial automation, medical, data center, and telecommunications applications to name a few. Having become synonymous with the popular product, FCT D-sub connectors offer machined contacts that provide higher current, lower resistance and greater durability compared to stamped contacts, with a secure, reliable, semi-permanent electrical path between two devices.

Read on to discover the full range of Molex FCT products available from Arrow, including recent additions to the familiar range that further enhance the portfolio. If you are looking for a complete solution for your next design, look no further.

Choosing the right D-Sub for your application

When choosing the right D-sub connector for your application, there are a multiple factors to take into consideration, including operating conditions, housing materials and the pin type needed to achieve the desired outcome. The availability of all aspects of your chosen D-Sub connector type enable the right configuration for your chosen application, from patient monitoring systems through to surveillance equipment. For applications where connectors have a high current rating but need to fit in the same space as a lower current connector, Molex FCT D-Sub connectors’ machined contacts have increased current carrying capacity over stamped contacts and are mechanically stronger. Plus, IP67-rated and non-magnetic variations facilitate more environmentally demanding applications.

A collection of FCT connectors displayed on a red panel, showcasing standard density, high density, and mixed layout configurations. Electrical specifications such as test voltage, current rating, and insulation resistance are clearly labeled. Numeric values include '1000V RMS', '7.5A', and '5000 Megohms'. The connectors are visually detailed with metallic finishes and pin arrangements.

Standard D-Sub

FCT Standard Density D-Sub connectors with precision machined contacts deliver a high-current rating up to 7.5A per pin and offer configurations that fit common panel cutouts and footprints. Available in circuit sizes of 9, 15, 25, 37 and 50, with machined pin and socket contacts available as solder pot, crimp, straight or right-angled PCB termination.

High-Density D-Sub

FCT High-Density D-Sub connectors provide a high current rating (up to 5A per pin) due to their precision-machined contacts, and the high-density configuration allows for increased pin count. Available in circuit sizes 15, 26, 44, 62 and 78.

Mixed Layout D-Sub

Offering a range of standard housings with a portfolio of high-current, high-voltage, pneumatic and coaxial contacts, plus various accessory options to meet each application’s specific connectivity requirements.

FCT Tooling

A highly reliable crimp connection is the result of using high-quality crimping tools. Recently added to the range, the FCT manual hand-crimping tools with high-quality construction offer convenience and longevity. Providing excellent performance for reliable electrical connections, these tools feature and 8-impression crimp, helping to ensure maximum tensile strength with most closed-barrel contacts. In addition to crimp tools, the range includes positioners and dies for high-density, coaxial and high-power contacts.

A collection of red tools featuring the FCT logo and visible text such as '1731121734' and 'POSITIONER'. The tools include a clamp with red handles, a cylindrical component, and other precision instruments. The image highlights the metallic finish and functional design of the tools.

Hoods, Backshells and Accessories

Plastic and Metal Backshells for D-Sub Connectors are available in straight or angled cable outlet orientations, with options for shielded (metalized) and nonmagnetic versions in plastic backshells, providing connector protection, strain relief, and organized cable routing. Additionally, D-Sub Connector accessories, including protective caps, brackets, latching mechanisms, panel and board mounting solutions, and various hardware options, offer tailored enhancements to standard D-Sub connectors, ensuring secure and reliable connections for diverse application needs.

An electrical connector with multiple exposed red and white wires is displayed alongside its black protective cover. The connector features visible metallic pins and a compact design. The text 'PROCON' is clearly embossed on the cover, adding identifiable detail to the product.

Find the complete range of FCT products from Arrow

The Molex FCT product family also includes an extensive range of backshells and accessory options, providing an effective solution for a variety of applications.  Contacts range from high power and high voltage, through to coaxial and pneumatic, in addition to the standard offering.

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