DC programs add thermal and service questions to the baseline
AC qualification focus
AC programs still require interface, conductor, temperature, mechanical life, ingress and cable validation. Current and duty cycle determine which evidence matters most.
DC qualification focus
Higher continuous current makes conductor temperature, contact resistance, sensor response, derating and cable ergonomics more prominent.
Cooling changes the system boundary
A liquid-cooled connector is part of a wider thermal circuit. Pump, coolant, seals, monitoring, control logic and service process must be reviewed together.
Procurement implication
Ask for evidence tied to the offered current, cable length, cooling state and ambient profile—not a generic family-level statement.