Anderson-style plugs are widely used for DC power connections in battery systems, leisure vehicles, solar setups, workshops, mobility equipment, winches, and industrial power applications. They are popular because they are strong, easy to connect and disconnect, and available in a wide range of current ratings.
At Munqo, the planned Anderson-style connector range includes common sizes such as 45A, 50A, 120A, 175A, and 350A. Each size is suited to a different type of job, so it is important to choose by current rating, cable size, contact type, and housing compatibility.
What are Anderson-style plugs?
Anderson-style plugs are genderless DC connectors. Instead of using a separate male and female connector, two matching housings usually plug into each other. This makes them practical for battery leads, removable power packs, charger connections, jump leads, solar accessories, and portable power systems.
The phrase Anderson-style is important. Unless a product is a genuine Anderson Power Products item with verified documentation, it should be listed as Anderson-style rather than genuine Anderson.
Common Anderson-style connector sizes
45A connectors
45A connectors are often used for smaller DC power connections, electronics, compact battery leads, radio equipment, and lower-current accessories. They are useful where a compact connector is needed, but the exact cable size and contact rating must still be checked.
50A connectors
50A Anderson-style plugs are one of the most common choices for leisure batteries, campervan systems, solar charge leads, small inverters, battery boxes, and 12V accessories. They are a practical option for many medium-current DC applications when correctly matched to the cable and fuse.
120A connectors
120A connectors are suited to higher-current battery and DC distribution setups. They may be used where 50A connectors are not enough, but where the system does not require the larger 175A or 350A housings. Always check the cable/contact compatibility before buying.
175A connectors
175A Anderson-style plugs are commonly used for heavier battery connections, larger inverters, machinery, workshop power, and demanding DC systems. They are physically larger and require suitable contacts, cable, crimping tools, and circuit protection.
350A connectors
350A connectors are for very high-current DC applications. These are not casual accessory connectors. They require careful cable sizing, correct crimping, suitable fusing, and competent installation. They are often used in industrial, battery, equipment, and heavy-duty power setups.
How to choose the right Anderson-style plug
- Current rating: choose a connector rated for the actual system current, not just the product name.
- Cable size: the contact must match the cable gauge or cross-section.
- Housing size: 45A, 50A, 120A, 175A, and 350A housings are not all interchangeable.
- Housing colour and keying: some housings only mate with matching colours or keyed versions.
- Contacts included: check whether the product includes contacts or is housing-only.
- Crimping method: high-current contacts need the correct crimp tool and technique.
- Protection: DC circuits normally need suitable fuses or breakers close to the power source.
Where are Anderson-style plugs used?
- Leisure battery systems
- Campervan and motorhome power setups
- Solar panel charge leads
- Battery box connections
- Workshop DC power connections
- Inverter input leads
- Mobility and equipment battery connectors
- Jump lead and charging connections
Important safety notes
High-current DC power can be dangerous if the wrong connector, cable, fuse, or crimp is used. Heat, voltage drop, poor contact pressure, and short circuits can all cause serious problems. Always match the connector to the cable and system design, and use a competent installer where needed.
Do not choose a connector only because it looks similar to an existing plug. Check the current rating, housing size, contact size, colour/keying, and supplier datasheet before ordering.
Shop Anderson-style plugs from Munqo
Munqo is building a UK range of Anderson-style DC power connectors, including 45A, 50A, 120A, 175A, and 350A options. Product pages will show the current rating, cable compatibility, pack contents, and whether contacts are included.