Clip Question

Does anyone know why Estes switched out the alligator clips for the "flat-nosed" type on their electron-beam controllers? I don't dig the new ones - they don't seem to clamp as well.

The flat jaw clips shown in the photo below are preferred by most rocket folks. They will not pierce insulator and can be used with copperheads.



The stainless steel version shown above will last for thousands of launches and are easily cleaned but need special solder. They are available at https://blastzone.org/nar/narts/store.asp?groupid=81620092133327 in small quantities and from DigiKey or other electronics suppliers.

Bob

1-1/8" Smooth Jaw Micro Clips have been the standard for Launcher clips since the 1970's. because of their wide flat surface they give better contact the the tiny edge of the metal contact provided by alligator clips.

One of the best methods of attaching Micro-Clips to your igniters is to fold the igniter (starter) leads into a U which give twice the contact wire surface and also stablizes the wire in the clip jaws.

Hope this helps.

Thanks - definitely going to try bending the leads!

I guess nobody reads the instructions.

That little bit of paper that Estes throws into every motor pack includes instructions on igniter ("starter" now) installation that recommend bending the wires into a U shape.