Wire-to-board headers expand Power Triple Lock connector family

TE Connectivity (TE) has introduced new wire-to-board headers as part of its Power Triple Lock connector product line; thereby expanding the family of connectors targeting appliances into a growing number of HVAC, automation and control, and automotive designs. The connectors’ combined attributes of higher-current ratings, connection reliability assurance options and higher temperature operation provide an exceptional value-added solution to customers when compared to similar pin-and-socket connectors. The 6.0mm centre line connectors in the Power Triple Lock connector family offer higher current ratings than competitive products (20A as opposed to18A). Their higher temperature ratings (150C as opposed to 130C) help increase reliability in cooking and other high-temperature applications. For assembly reliability, the family offers an optional - and novel - connector position assurance (CPA) device that helps keep the connector fully mated and engaged during shipment, installation and use. Another optional mechanism, the TPA (Terminal Position Assurance) device, provides secondary locking of the contact into the connector housing. To ease assembly, Power Triple Lock connectors feature rounded edges and an anti-snag design. They also feature a latch that audibly clicks to indicate that the header or cap and plug are mated. Additionally, the connectors’ design helps reduce fretting to prevent corrosion in applications, which is a key reliability concern in HVAC and automotive designs, says the company. “As refrigerators, washing machines and other home appliances become smarter with increased functionality, the connectors in these applications must adapt to more rigorous power and reliability demands,” said Denise Quinnette, product management director, TE. “The Power Triple Lock connector is at the head of the class in providing designers with a wide variety of high-current, high-temperature and easy-to-install solutions that they can tailor to the latest, cutting-edge home appliances and many other applications. As our customers are looking to differentiate in the connected home space, TE continues to innovate and extend the product line.” The Power Triple Lock connectors are V-0 rated (UL 94 V-0) and are colour coded. The family consists of existing wire-to-wire and new wire-to-board versions. The connectors offer nine keying options in different housing colours to help improve assembly efficiency and prevent mismatch. For versatile harness and circuit board positioning, the wire-to-wire connectors are available in single row (2, 3, 4, 5), dual row (2x3, 2x4, 2x5, 2x6) and matrix (3x3, 3x4, 3x5) configurations. The wire-to-board versions are offered in single row (2, 3, 4, 5) configurations.