Which Deutsch Series Should I Use? DT vs DTM vs DTP
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“Which Deutsch series should I use?” Start with your wire size and circuit requirements, not the connector’s appearance. DTM is a starting point for smaller-wire, lower-current circuits, DT for general-purpose harness connections, and DTP for larger-wire power circuits. Confirm the exact components before ordering.
DTM vs DT vs DTP: quick decision table
| Series | Contact size | Typical AWG selection range* | Current context** | Applications to consider | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DTM | 20 | 18–24 AWG | 7.5 A contact reference | Sensor, signal and low-current control wiring | Shop DTM connectors |
| DT | 16 | 14–20 AWG | 13 A contact reference | General-purpose vehicle and equipment harnesses | Shop DT connectors |
| DTP | 12 | 10–14 AWG | 25 A contact reference | Larger-wire power connections, such as suitable accessory or equipment feeds | Shop DTP connectors |
*AWG means American Wire Gauge. These are selection ranges, not a claim that every contact accepts every listed wire size. Check the exact contact’s conductor range and the housing seal’s insulation-diameter range. Contact size is not wire gauge: a size 20 contact does not mean only 20 AWG wire.
**TE publishes these contact-level reference figures. They are not guaranteed operating currents for every assembled circuit. Wire gauge, temperature, connector loading and the applicable component specifications matter. For example, TE’s DT system specification lists lower current values for 18 and 20 AWG than for 14 and 16 AWG.
Which Deutsch series should I use for my harness?
Consider DTM when smaller wires and lower-current signals or controls drive the design. Browse the DTM collection.
Consider DT for general-purpose connections when its size 16 contacts, wire range and verified electrical limits suit the circuit. Browse the DT collection.
Consider DTP when a larger conductor and size 12 contacts are needed for a power connection. A larger connector alone does not establish safe circuit capacity. Browse the DTP collection.
Before you order
Check running current and any startup surge, conductor gauge, insulation diameter, cavity count and mating-part compatibility. Match the housing, contacts and wedgelocks to the selected series and part numbers, and follow the specified crimp tooling and assembly instructions. For a replacement, identify the existing connector before selecting its mate.
Technical references: TE Connectivity’s DEUTSCH product catalog, DT overview and DTP overview. Always use the applicable part drawing and current application/product specifications for final selection.