Photovoltaic connectors are used in solar power applications to connect solar panels together in arrays. They offer compatibility between power interfaces for different manufacturers. Important characteristics are their ease of installation, high current carrying capability and robustness under extreme environmental conditions. Because solar panels operate in exposed extreme conditions, all the components must be resistant to the damaging environmental effects of solar radiation, moisture and dust ingression. Solar connectors have built-in UV protection and are designed to have a strong seal as long as all wire gauge specifications are met.

Since solar panels are often ganged together in parallel configurations in low voltage (12V) systems, they must be able handle high currents. Connectors must have low contact resistance to reduce power losses and the associated voltage drops. Solar panels can also be ganged together in series configuration for high voltage systems. High voltage requires insulation to prevent electric shock. High current requires insulation to prevent electric arcs occurring if conductors are accidentally shorted.

Historically, solar panel connectors were manufacturer specific. The easy-to-use phone jack style connectors influenced the eventual development of a ‘common’ style of connector – the MC4. These can be described as weather sealed phone jacks with locking capability. They have specification ratings of at least 20A and 600V isolation. An H4 connector is also available with similar specifications that is interoperable with an MC4 but cross mating is not a UL approved connection.