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Creating and Configuring Custom Connectors

This guide explains how to build, pin out, and configure custom connectors from scratch in Wiringly. Connectors can be added to control units (like ECUs) or used as standalone components (like inline plugs, splices, and terminals).

Watch our video tutorial below to see this feature in action:

Step-by-Step Guide​

1. Create a New Connector in the Library​

  1. Navigate to the Component Library tab from the main workspace navigation sidebar.
  2. Click the + New Component button.
  3. Select Connector as the component category.

2. Enter Component Details & Part Numbers​

  • Descriptive Name: Choose a clear, standard name (e.g., Deutsch DTM 6-Way Female).
  • Manufacturer / Brand: Enter the brand name (e.g., Deutsch or Amphenol) for inventory tracking.
  • Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): Enter the exact part number (e.g., DTM06-6S). This is crucial for generating accurate procurement sheets in your Bill of Materials (BOM).
  • Mating Connector MPN: (Optional) Specify the mating partner's part number (e.g., DTM04-6P) so that plug/receptacle pairs are linked.

3. Specify Physical Scale​

Enter the exact Width and Length of the connector in millimeters.

1:1 Scale Constraint

Because Wiringly outputs 1:1 scale printable drawings for formboard assembly, entering correct physical dimensions ensures the connector's visual footprint matches its real-world size on your workbench.

4. Upload & Crop Connector Face Image​

  1. Upload a clear photograph or vector outline of the connector.
  2. Use the Polygon Cropping Tool to trace the connector’s outer shape.
    • Click to add points and trace the outline.
    • Points automatically snap to high-contrast edges and image boundaries.
    • Use your mouse wheel to zoom in for detail work and Spacebar + Drag to pan.

5. Define Pinout & Terminal Specifications​

  • Pin Count: Enter the total number of wire pins.
  • Pin Naming Pattern: Use the pattern generator to name pins in bulk (e.g., 1-6 or A-F). You can exclude characters like I and O to prevent confusion with 1 and 0 on physical prints.
  • Terminal Part Numbers: Assign the corresponding terminal pin socket part numbers. You can assign different part numbers depending on wire gauges to make sure the right terminal sizes are requested in the BOM.

6. Save and Place on Canvas​

Click Save in the bottom-right corner. The connector is now saved to your personal library and is ready to be dragged onto your canvas and connected to wires!