What Is a 4MM Branch Connector Used For?
By Portable Power Stations, Solar Generators | Published: 2026-10-30
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how a 4mm branch connector helps you connect solar panels in parallel, expanding your solar input for faster charging and more power.
Quick Answer
A 4mm branch connector lets you combine two solar panels into one connection, allowing you to run them in parallel and increase your total solar input to a compatible power station.
Why Use a Branch Connector?
When you connect solar panels in parallel, you keep the voltage the same while adding the current together. This is useful when you want to add more panels to your setup without exceeding your power station's voltage limit. A branch connector simplifies this by merging two panel outputs into a single pair of MC4 connectors.
Parallel connections are also helpful when panels are partially shaded or oriented differently—each panel operates independently, so one shaded panel won't drag down the whole array.
Compatibility Considerations
The 4mm branch connector works with solar panels that use standard MC4 4mm connectors, such as the Boulder 100i or Flex 100i. For Yeti power stations, you'll also need an MC4 to HPP adapter to connect the combined output to the station's HPP input port.
Always check your power station's solar input specifications to ensure the combined voltage and current stay within safe limits. Overloading the input can damage the station or reduce charging efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does a 4mm branch connector do?
- It connects two solar panels in parallel by combining their positive and negative leads into a single pair of MC4 connectors. This increases the total current while keeping the voltage the same.
- How do I use it with my solar panels?
- Plug each panel's MC4 connector into one of the branch connector's inputs, then connect the single output to your power station or to a combiner. Ensure the panels are compatible with MC4 connections. Check that both panels have the same voltage rating to avoid mismatched outputs.
- Can I use it with a Yeti power station?
- Yes, but you'll need an MC4 to HPP adapter to connect the branch connector's output to the Yeti's HPP input port. Verify your Yeti model supports this adapter. Confirm your power station's solar input limits before connecting multiple panels.
Product Spotlight
- 4MM BRANCH CONNECTOR: This kit includes one female-to-male and one male-to-female 4mm solar branch connector, designed for MC4 connections. You get both connectors needed to merge two panels into one output, making parallel wiring straightforward without extra parts.
4MM BRANCH CONNECTOR
