Deans® Tech Bench - Using Adapters

We’ve all been there - plugging Christmas lights into extension cords, into power strips, and so on. We know it's wrong, it’s a fire hazard, think of the disastrous scenes in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. Yet we do it anyway.

So why do we do this with our RC vehicles? Whether it’s a plane, drone, car or boat, using multiple sizes and brands of connectors leads to adapters. However, this drastically reduces performance.

Why Avoid Adapters in Normal Operation?
Adapters should not be part of your RC vehicle’s wiring for several reasons:

  • Increased Resistance: Each adapter adds resistance, which reduces power transfer.
  • Heat Generation: Higher resistance increases heat, which in turn increases resistance even more.


Standardize on One Plug
The simplest solution is to standardize on one plug for all of your models. If you are involved  multiple categories, like planes, cars, and drones, using one connector eliminates the need for adapters.

When to Use an Adapter
Adapters have their place, but their use should be limited to specific situations:

  • Charging: It is acceptable to use an adapter when charging, since this is done at lower amperage. The lower demand during charging means that the added resistance won’t impact performance or safety significantly.

Why Choose Deans® Connectors?
Using a high-quality connector like the DEANS® Ultra Plug® ensures a reliable connection with superior power transfer. Here’s why DEANS® connectors are the best choice:

  • Low Resistance: DEANS® connectors are designed to minimize resistance, ensuring efficient power transfer.
  • Reliability: These connectors provide a time proven superior connection
  • Quality: DEANS® connectors are made with the highest quality materials, ensuring durability and long-term performance.


Basic Rules of Thumb

  • No Adapters in the Model: Keep your wiring simple and short.
  • Keep Wiring Short: Shorter wires reduce resistance and power loss.
  • No Imitations: Use genuine DEANS® connectors to ensure the best performance and reliability.


By using DEANS® connectors, your RC model perform at their best, with efficient and reliable power delivery.

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    W. S. Deans Co.