A connector that looks similar is not necessarily a valid mate. Confirm compatibility using the applicable specification and interface requirements, including connector family, shell size, insert arrangement, contact orientation, polarization, contact type, and any restrictions imposed by the design.
The EMech WorkBench MIL-DTL-38999 builder can list candidate mating part numbers for supported configurations. Build a connector or decode an existing part number, then review the mating section. The list is generated from the site's current data scope and selected matching options; it is a starting point for verification, not a substitute for the controlling specification or the manufacturer's approval.
Use the builder
- Open the builder page for the same connector family and series as the part you are checking.
- Decode the known part number or build its fields in the tool.
- Review the candidate mates shown for that configuration. Where available, use the similarity filters to narrow candidates by plating and contact durability.
- Compare the candidate against the exact connector's specification, slash sheet, interface drawing, and project requirements.
- Confirm the actual part number, contact gender, key/polarization, environmental class, and manufacturer-specific restrictions before releasing a drawing or order.
If the tool reports no mating connectors, that means no candidate was found within the current data and filter settings. It does not establish that the connector has no mate.
What matching does—and does not—mean
The builder uses structured part-number data to generate candidate combinations. A candidate mate must pass every rule in this table:
| Field | Rule the builder applies |
|---|---|
| Shell role | Opposite: a plug mates a receptacle |
| Shell size | Same |
| Insert arrangement | Same |
| Polarization or insert position | Same |
| Contact gender | Opposite: pin mates socket |
| Series | Same series page |
The controls on the mating section narrow the list further:
| Control | What it does |
|---|---|
| Similar plating | Keeps mates with the same class and the matching contact-style pair, within the same family |
| Similar contacts | Keeps mates with the same contact durability rating, for example 1,500-cycle with 1,500-cycle |
| Hermetic | Shows hermetic candidates instead of the default general-purpose set, where the series has them |
These filters are selection aids. They do not establish that two manufacturers' products are approved together or that a complete interconnection meets a system requirement.
For MIL-DTL-26482 Series 2, the current tool lists mating candidates within its Series 2 data scope; it does not list cross-series candidates. Do not infer cross-series compatibility from shared arrangement numbers or a physically similar shell.
Verify the complete interface
Before approving a mate, check the current revisions of the governing specification and both connector detail sheets.
| Check | What to confirm |
|---|---|
| Mechanical interface | Coupling, shell size and interface dimensions on both detail sheets |
| Keying | Polarization or insert position on both connectors |
| Contacts | Pin/socket pairing, contact size and termination |
| Environment | Class, sealing and environmental requirements |
| Product documentation | Any restrictions the manufacturer states |
| Part number | The exact supplier part number: a family-level match is not a procurement confirmation |
The builder does not provide live supplier price or lead-time information. Confirm availability and delivery directly with the supplier.