In a robot-assisted steerable medical device, such as a catheter, a magnetic connector hub is configured to establish mechanical and magnetic connection between a drive cable and an actuator, or between multiple modules in a single insert-and-twist motion. The connector hub creates a magnetic breakaway feature for automatically decoupling the actuator from the drive cable, while the catheter remains attached. This prevents damage to the catheter/tool and/or patient when an excessive force is applied, and adds a safety element and helps protect the patient. And when the breakaway occurs the system can be automatically reengaged catheter without damage, so that normal operation can resume. Connection can also be broken at any point in the operation based on threshold forces or emergency situations.