So I am building an uv exposure box for pcbs with a lot of uv led diodes. I will use 12V 3A power supply. The circuit will on paper draw 1.6A. I am choosing a DC connector for the box. I have a few at home which have current rating of 0.5A. I know it isn't sufficient in theory but I am interested in practice. How does a DC connector go bad? Does it leave open circuit when bad? Get hot? How fast? Does it go bad right away if it has rating lower than sufficient or it will just happen sooner than it is supposed to. Or maybe, the circuit doesn't draw sufficient current it is supposed to if the connector is bad?

 

Smaller connectors generally have higher contact resistance and may overheat if the current is significantly above their rating.

 

One source of cheap high current connectors is the XT60 variety used by RC'ers for LiPo battery etc.
Maybe a little overkill, current wise, but cheap.
Max.

 

In general if you use a component outside of the manufacturer's ratings you are on your own.

The heating of the contacts is the biggest one. There is also a risk of chemical damage such as seen in battery connector anything near saltwater or not properly protected from the elements.

 

Thank you all!