Overview
ISO 10487-2:1995 defines the performance requirements for multi-pole connectors used with car radios in passenger cars. It applies to unsealed connectors, intended for operating temperatures between −40 °C and +85 °C (class 2 per ISO 8092-2), and covers both extractable car-radio connections (without locking devices) and permanent connections (with locking devices). The standard complements ISO 10487-1 (dimensions and general requirements) and specifies the test procedures, sample sizes and acceptance criteria for electrical and mechanical performance.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Connector ratings
- Nominal voltages: 12 V or 24 V (selected by the radio manufacturer)
- Nominal currents: 10 A for 12 V, 5 A for 24 V
- Environmental class
- Designed for automotive ambient temperatures −40 °C to +85 °C
- Test program and conditions
- Tests performed at (23 ± 5) °C and 45–75% RH unless otherwise specified
- Sample groups: sets of five connectors submitted to specified test sequences
- Electrical performance
- Contact/connection resistance measured at millivolt level; 10 mΩ max. (as specified)
- Insulation resistance requirement (specified in referenced test method)
- Dielectric strength testing per ISO 8092-2 procedures
- Current cycling: examples include 6 A for 12 V, 3 A for 24 V
- Temperature-rise tests using 0.75 mm² cable cross-section with the above test currents
- Mechanical and durability tests
- Visual examination, contact insertion/retention, tensile strength of crimped connections
- Disconnecting/connecting force limits defined per connector part (A, B, C, etc.)
- Durability for extractable connectors: cyclic connection/disconnection (e.g., 5 000 cycles) with post-test contact-resistance checks
- Locking device strength testing for permanent connectors
- Vibration, temperature/humidity cycling, and salt spray corrosion tests
Applications and users
ISO 10487-2 is essential for:
- Automotive manufacturers (OEMs) specifying reliable car radio connector interfaces
- Car radio and in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) designers ensuring compatibility and durability
- Connector and terminal suppliers developing multi-pole automotive connectors
- Test laboratories performing compliance verification and type-approval testing
- Quality and compliance engineers responsible for vehicle electrical-harness integration
Using ISO 10487-2 helps ensure safe, durable electrical connections for vehicle audio systems and supports interoperability between radios and wiring harnesses across manufacturers.
Related standards
- ISO 10487-1 - Dimensions and general requirements (connector form and pin layout)
- ISO 8092-2 - Road vehicles - Connections for on-board wiring harnesses: definitions, test methods and general performance requirements (referenced test procedures)