Description
The DDK SAN3-40 (and the male version SAN3-40M) is a high-density, rectangular multi-pin connector specifically designed for industrial automation applications. It is most commonly used as the interface for Hitachi S10V and S10mini series PLC I/O modules, as well as various CNC and motion control systems requiring secure, multi-core signal transmissions.
Product Parameters (Datasheet)
- Model Number: SAN3-40 (Female/Socket) / SAN3-40M (Male/Plug)
- Number of Pins: 40 Pins
- Connector Type: Rectangular I/O Interface
- Contact Pitch: 1.27 mm (High density)
- Rated Current: 0.5 A per contact
- Rated Voltage: 125 V AC (rms)
- Insulation Resistance: 1000 MΩ or more at 250 V DC
- Contact Resistance: 35 mΩ or less
- Housing Material: PBT (Polybutylene terephthalate) / Glass-filled (UL94V-0)
- Shell Material: Steel with Nickel plating (for EMI shielding)

DDK SAN3-40 SAN3-40M

DDK SAN3-40 SAN3-40M

DDK SAN3-40 SAN3-40M
Country of Origin
This precision connector is engineered and manufactured by DDK Ltd. (Dai-Ichi Denshi Kogyo) in Japan, a primary supplier of interconnect solutions for major Japanese automation brands.
Application Fields
The SAN3-40 series is the standard connection point for several high-spec electronic environments:
- PLC I/O Modules: Specifically used for Hitachi S10V (e.g., LXD/LYD modules) to connect field wiring to the processor.
- CNC Controllers: Interfacing Fanuc or Mitsubishi CNC units with operator panels and feedback sensors.
- Semiconductor Equipment: Used in wafer handling systems where space-saving high-density cabling is required.
- Robotics: Providing signal links between robot controllers and end-of-arm tooling.
- Medical Diagnostic Tools: Secure multi-channel data transmission in imaging equipment.
Product Usage Instructions
- Selection: Ensure you are pairing the SAN3-40M (Male) with the SAN3-40 (Female). The “M” usually denotes the plug side used on the cable.
- Cabling: Due to the fine 1.27 mm pitch, use specialized multi-core shielded cables. Soldering requires a fine-tip iron and experienced handling to prevent solder bridges between the dense pins.
- Strain Relief: Always use the compatible DDK metal or plastic shell (hood) to provide strain relief and prevent the wires from pulling out of the contacts under vibration.
- Mating: Align the trapezoidal shape of the connector (D-shape) to ensure correct orientation. Tighten the side screws to lock the connection; do not rely on friction alone in industrial settings.
- Shielding: Connect the cable shield to the connector shell to maintain electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and reduce signal noise.
Product Technical Description
The SAN3-40 series is built for durability in harsh factory environments. Technically, it features ribbon-type contacts which provide a larger surface area for electrical contact compared to standard round pins, resulting in higher vibration resistance and more reliable signal integrity. The “D-shape” shell provides mechanical polarization, making it impossible to plug the connector in upside down. The compact footprint allows manufacturers to fit 40 signals into a space typically reserved for 20-pin connectors, making it the preferred choice for modern, space-constrained PLC rack designs.
Q&A (Common Questions)
- Q: Is the SAN3-40 interchangeable with Honda or Hirose 40-pin connectors?
- A: While they may look similar, the shell dimensions and pin depths often differ slightly. It is strongly recommended to use genuine DDK SAN3 series components to ensure a perfect mechanical fit and electrical rating.
- Q: Can I use this for power transmission?
- A: Only for low-current signals. With a rating of 0.5 A per pin, it is designed for data, logic, and sensor feedback, not for driving high-power motors or heaters.
- Q: How do I identify the pin numbers?
- A: The pin numbers (1 through 40) are typically molded into the plastic insulator in very small print. Pin 1 is usually located at the top corner of the longest side of the D-shape.
- Q: Does this require a special crimping tool?
- A: The SAN3 series comes in both solder-cup and IDC (Insulation Displacement Connector) versions. The IDC version requires a specific DDK press tool, while the solder version can be handled with standard precision soldering equipment.
Similar Model Recommendations
- DDK SAN3-20: 20-pin version of the same series.
- Hitachi LYD105A: A 32-channel output module that utilizes this 40-pin connector.
- Honda PCR-E40M: A common industrial alternative with similar density.
- Hirose DX series: Another high-density rectangular series used in similar applications.
- DDK SAN3-50: 50-pin variant for even higher density requirements.
For technical drawings or to order the DDK SAN3-40, please contact our industrial interconnect team.
