Understanding Solar Panel Connectors: EMPV4N and EMPV10N Series

When it comes to solar power systems, every component plays a crucial role in ensuring reliability, safety, and long-term performance. One often overlooked yet critical component is the solar connector — the small but powerful piece that links solar panels together and connects them to the larger system.
Among these, MC4 connectors have become the industry’s default terminology, though technically speaking, not every connector used is a true MC4.

Today, we spotlight two high-quality alternatives: the Elmex EMPV4N and EMPV10N straight solar connectors — rugged, certified, and engineered to meet the highest standards in photovoltaic applications.

Why Are They Called MC4 Connectors?

The term MC4 stands for Multi-Contact 4mm, where “Multi-Contact” is the original Swiss brand that introduced these solar connectors. Over time, “MC4” became the generic name for any connector with a similar 4mm contact pin design and locking mechanism, regardless of the manufacturer.

Even though companies like Elmex, Amphenol, Staubli, and others offer their versions (each with slight variations), the name MC4 stuck, much like how people call all tissue papers “Kleenex” or all photocopies “Xerox.”
In practice, the industry calls almost any solar panel connector an “MC4” connector, even if it technically carries a different model name or brand.

Introducing Elmex EMPV4N and EMPV10N Straight Connectors

Elmex brings its engineering expertise to solar PV connectors with the EMPV4N and EMPV10N models — designed specifically for modern high-voltage photovoltaic systems. These connectors offer reliable, safe, and easy installations while meeting global standards like IEC 62852 and EN 50618/IEC 62930.

EMPV4N Solar Connector Features

• Rated Voltage: 1500V DC
• Rated Current: 25A (2.5mm² cable), 30A (4.0mm² & 6.0mm² cable)
• Protection Class: IP67/IP68 (when mated)
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +85°C (Max. +110°C)
• Locking Mechanism: Snap-in with NEC interlock (tool required for disconnection)
• Contact Material: Tin-plated Copper
• Compliance: Certified as per IEC 62852

The EMPV4N connector is ideal for connecting solar panels and linking panels to junction boxes or inverters.

“Our Connectors are suitable for PV Solar Cables of 2.5, 4.0, and 6.0 mm² diameter (As per EN 50618/IEC 62930).”

EMPV10N Solar Connector Features

• Rated Voltage: 1500V DC
• Rated Current: Up to 70A (for 10.0mm² cable)
• Cable Range: 2.5mm² / 4.0mm² / 6.0mm² / 10.0mm²
• Protection: IP68 (dust-tight and protected against continuous water immersion)
• Contact Resistance: ≤ 0.25 mΩ
• Material: UV-resistant, flame-retardant thermoplastic housing (PPO/PPE)

The EMPV10N extends the capabilities for higher current systems — perfect for commercial and utility-scale solar plants where larger conductor sizes and higher system efficiency are critical.

Key Advantages of Elmex Solar Straight Connectors

• High Durability: Salt-mist resistant, ammonia resistant, and corrosion tested.
• UV Stability: Tested for 500+ hours as per ISO 4892-2.
• Low Contact Resistance: Ensures minimal power loss at connection points.
• Flexible Compatibility: Connects reliably to standard PV cables used worldwide.
• International Standards Compliance: Meets TUV, IEC, and UL certifications.

Why It Matters

Choosing high-quality connectors like EMPV4N and EMPV10N ensures:

• Longer system life
• Fewer field failures
• Maximum power transfer efficiency
• Protection against harsh environmental conditions

Bottom line: Even though you might casually call them “MC4 connectors,” investing in properly tested and certified connectors — like those from Elmex — makes a real difference in the long-term performance of your solar installations.

Explore Solar Connectors!