Multicontact (MC) Solar Panel Interconnect Cables & Adaptors

MC Cables for Solar Panel Interconnections

MC cables are used on nearly all new panels in the 100 watt+ range except for those specifically made for off-grid/RV/Marine applications, which still use the standard junction box, such as the Kyocera KC130.

The new NEC code requires the MC4 type (Solarline 2) latching connectors, as shown in the picture. Over the next year or so there will be a transition period where some panels have the SL1/MC3 type connectors and some have the new SL2/MC4 latching type. Nearly all new solar panels use the MC4 connectors, there are only a few panels still being sold that use the MC3 type connectors - most of those were manufactured prior to 2008, but there are still some in the supply pipeline, and quite a few older systems that used them.

There are also a few of the newer panels that use the Tyco Solarlok type connectors and cables. Special order only, 3-5 days.

All MC cables are made with #10 AWG stranded UL/NEC approved RHW-2/RHH (USE-2) sunlight resistant wire.

If you are using a solar panel with MC type connectors on them for RV, marine, or other application where you need to tie into a charge controller, junction box, or array combiner, just buy ONE extender cable that is twice the total length needed and cut it in half.

Polarity: We cannot find any "official" notes on polarity, but all the modules we have seen use the tapered looking end as the Positive (+) and the other as the Negative on panels that come pre-wired with MC connectors.