1.7A though a 'phono connector' ?

It sounds similar to the plugs used on some laptops, especially the bit about the split tip.

If you're looking for a better specced replacement, XLR might do, the female socket is usually placed on the battery pack, contacts rated at

Coaxial 3.1mm DC plugs can handle 6A and they are commonly available.

Ah, ok, not seen any like that from memory Steve.

I was thinking of XLR's (if we are talking about the same thing, never really used any in the flash yet). Like this? (I especially like the idea of the sockets pins shrouded as protection against shorting the battery etc)

Hmm, I think I prefer the XLR's now you have mentioned them .. if I can get them to fit.

If not and without the locking ring, these might also do:

All the best and thanks ..

T i m

Neutricon?

the things that we use for motorway signs and they can be 25-35mm in diameter.

You might want to consider these, they're exactly the size you want (10.5mm dia), but they're fecking expensive:

The message from %steve%@malloc.co.uk (Steve Firth) contains these words:

the web

Nope, true, and in this case the socket will be in a ~3mm deep hole and when the plug isn't in place will probably be protected by the rigid briefcase style handle that drops down into a recess over it.

Doh, the plug I happened to look at had nothing on the specs page (or not the dims anyway).

I know what you mean but I've just found the datasheet and it seems these particular plugs are about 15 mm od so still in with a shout (and cheap enough).

pole would also do.

I think it's one of those things where I'll find something that will do to get this one sorted quickly / cheaply. Then I'll see if I can get something that might be better quality ready if / when there is a next time.

All the best and thanks again ..

T i m

Ah, good to know but I don't have an account. :-(

Do you have to be 'trade' to get one do you know?

All the best ..

T i m

Have you actually used these Peter? I assume the locking mech would stop the cable pulling the connector apart unless you wanted it to. I would probably have to defeat that so that the cable would pull it out rather than tripping the lady over etc? Also, are you aware of any regular (high street type) places that stock them please?

They do don't they (well spotted). The one on this lead is moulded so I'm not sure if they can be supplied for retro fit but can only ask.

If I don't find something tomorrow I might give them a ring on Monday.

In fact I could make this a dual interface as there is an unused position (and hole) in the battery case where I could fit my alternative socket in parallel, then she would have the best of both worlds (in case she ever has to buy a new charger etc).

All the best ..

T i m

You seemed to have them the other way around. [snip]

You're welcome.

Most chassis mounting XLRs require a 22.5mm diameter hole.

No - just a credit card. But RS are generally pretty expensive especially for a small purchase. Try CPC or Rapid.

Ok thanks Dave.

All the best ..

T i m

Yeah, that was a concern of mine.

Might be doable.

I'll have a look at what Maplin have in stock tomorrow and probably buy a little selection (always handy for the bits box in any case).

I think this might have it for a down and dirty quick / cheap fix. It's not dissimilar to the fit of the bits that are in there now and are in stock.

Those baby XLR's and nice but would imagine even with their locking mech removed might still not pull out easily because of the quality of the fit?

All the best ..

T i m

The message from T i m contains these words:

Well, I COULD have got one on a bona fide trade basis -- we do have a small caravan site which has a number of genuine trade accounts with suppliers of various sorts, but in point of fact I spoke to RS Accounts and simply pointed out that I order on behalf of a number of different charities as well as the caravan site and also for myself and it would be a lot simpler just to hve it in my name -- and they said yes! Some you win, some you don't, but that was one that I won. Very useful. Just order the odd thing every six months or so to keep it going. The post free thing is very valuable and some things are actually quite difficult to obtain elsewhere, especially when one lives in the sticks and carriage is not only expensive but often surcharged as well.

Must have been about 12 years ago, I started opening an account with RS. They wanted a copy of the company accounts, references from two suppliers, and probably more things I've forgotten. In the middle of assembling this, there was a knock on the door and a cold call from Farnell with a catalogue and the offer of an account setup on the spot. Never bothered finishing off the RS application, and Farnell got the business for the next 10 years or so...

Somewhat O/T, but I just bought a UPS from this chap. Nice bloke to do business with, so far as I can see.

The message from snipped-for-privacy@cucumber.demon.co.uk (Andrew Gabriel) contains these words:

Nothing against Farnell, but don't they have a minimum credit card order of £20? Expensive if all you've run out of is small items worth less than that? All I'm saying is that RS are actually useful for obscure items that one doesn't use very many of, in which instance the absence of minimum order value on web orders can make the end price cheaper although the unit price is higher.

In message , Appin writes

I thought it was £30

can't see as their server seems to be down ATM

Thanks for that and good to know Huge.

I have been given a PowaByke (still to collect it) and I understand the owners have lost the charger , so I might be looking for a suitable charger soon so may well give them a try for that as well (as the phono plug question).

Incidentally, my BIL picked up a selection of the plugs / sockets we discussed from Maplin yesterday and now I have them in my hand I think the:

All the best and thanks to all etc ..

T i m