Cable control ball connectors [norms, sizes]

[Wolf Schweitzer]

I would be interested in collecting norms and sizes used for cable control ball connectors. I use Otto Bock Movohook ball connectors (ball diameter 5mm) but after hooking (broom ting) up a Dorrance hook I realize the US norm is different.

What sizes are used there? Who sells the ball connectors over there?

Thank you.

[Jon Kuniholm]

In case anyone might miss it, I'll repost my comment from the other site:

The spectra setups are actually from Bob Radocy at TRS. You might like some of his voluntary closing designs. The Grip is the classic. The last page of his catalog shows both the ball ends for spectra and some of the rubber grommets that he adds to the balls to keep them from coming undone.

[Jon Kuniholm]

Wolf -

The ball connectors are in inches (sorry), and they come in two sizes, 3/16” (.48cm), and 9/32” (.71cm). I would guess that 5mm and 7mm would be indistinguishable. Amputee supply doesn't seem to have any upper limb expendables except for elastration rings, so Hosmer-Dorrance would be your source (looks like they've finally dropped the "Dorrance" but I'll bet it's still stamped on the hooks. This page of cable connectors has what you're looking for.

In my opinion, these things could use some updating. I've never had one break, but I use the tie attachments for Spectra, and the neck on them bends even under the 6 or so bands I use. My spectra tends to break at the knot there. We've talked about having a design that you could hang a spectra loop on and secure it and do away with the ball-end entirely, but the last thing we need is another standard...

Jon