High voltage connector types

There are primarily five different high voltage connectors that are used on surface analysis systems. This post will explain the differences between them and provide information on how to connect them.

The high voltage connector types are:

BNC

MHV

SHV

10kV SHV

20kV RF

BNC_connector

BNC_connector

This connector is not really considered a high voltage connector as it is only rated to 600V DC, but it is found most surface analysis systems on the specimen stage as the target connector.

MHV_cable_connector

MHV_cable_connector

The MHV connector looks similar to a BNC but it is slightly deeper and it has slightly protruding insulation on the make plug. MHV stands for miniature high voltage and this connector type is rated for up to 5kV and 3 amps. The MHV connector is common on older surface analysis components but it is not considered safe by today’s standards as it is possible to touch the male pin with a finger and get shocked. It is also possible to force a BNC cable onto a MHV connector.

Newer surface analysis components use the SHV (safe high voltage connector) which is rated at 5kV and 5 amps.

SHV_connector

SHV_connector

The SHV has a recessed male pin and so it is not possible to touch the pin with a finger. The dimensions of the SHV connector make it impossible to connect it to a BNC or MHV connector. It is also designed so that the HV contact is broken before the ground contact when removing the cable.

10kV_SHV_connector

10kV_SHV_connector

For higher voltages on components such as ion pump controllers the next voltage rating is the 10kV SHV connector.

The 10kV SHV connector is considerably larger than the 5kV SHV connector but is shares features such as the recessed pins.

20kV_SHV_connector

20kV_SHV_connector

Finally, the 20kV RF connector is used on components such at 15kV dual anode x-ray sources. It is very similar to the 10kV SHV connector only larger.

All of these connectors need special crimp tools to attach them to cables.

Below are useful links for each connector type that include dimensions and assembly instructions:

BNC

MHV

SHV

10kV SHV

20kV RF

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6 thoughts on “High voltage connector types

  1. Hello Gilbert,

    I am hoping if you could advise about a connector for a specific application.
    I am trying to connect a SMU with triax output to a HV screw triax connector.
    I was able to find a resistor box to convert the HV screw triax to SHV
    but now I am looking for the SHV to triax connector

    I figured I am required either:
    Three-slot female triaxial connector to SHV plug connector
    OR
    BNC Female to SHV Plug connector

    with high voltage rating.

    Just to give more info and to verify that I am asking the right question: My specific connections are: Three-slot male triaxial cable Keithley Model 7078-TRX to SHV (jack) in a resistor box Keysight N1262A-021. If the triaxial to SHV connector is not possible, I was thinking to use the Keithley TRX-BNC connector (Keithley 7078-TRX-GND). Then, I would need the second option: a BNC Female to SHV Plug connector.

    • Hello Gilbert, I don’t think so. On the older PHI units that have SHV connectors mounted to a board they have made L brackets to mount the connector to the boards. The connector screws into the bracket and teh brake mounts to the board. Then a wires make the electrical connections from the SHV connector to the board.

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