Versatile FPC connector supports transmission speeds up to 10Gbps

Hirose has launched a new low-profile FPC connector that supports FPC applications in a small package, and operates at USB 3.1 gen 2 speeds up to 10Gbps. The DF40GL Series is ideal for daughter boards in USB Type C applications. Featuring a pitch of only 0.4mm and a height of only 1.5mm, the miniature sderies is claimed to be the smallest FPC-to-board connector to feature a positive lock with a blade locking system. A minimized depth of only 3.68mm reduces the required mounting area, which creates additional PCB space for optimizing antenna design and larger batteries. Offering secure mating and a clear tactile click when mated, the blade lock system has a simple and effective lever that offers quick locking/unlocking. The lock system makes the FPC-to-board connector impact resistant, and eliminates the need for a “buffer” to increase the retention force. To ensure proper mating, the series has guide ribs for a wide self-alignment range of 0.4mm in XY directions. A robust shock-absorbing configuration makes the series well suited for a wide range of portable electronics applications including cameras (DSC/DVC), game devices, laptops, tablets, and more. The series is also commonly used in automotive, medical and security applications. "Developed to support the second generation of high-speed specifications up to 10Gbps, the DF40GL Series flexible printed circuit connector combines a compact, low-profile 1.5mm design with the most rugged and reliable positive lock mechanism in the industry," said Rick van Weezel, vice-president of sales and marketing for Hirose Electric USA. "In addition to having a low-profile, the DF40GL Series also reduces the required PCB mounting area, saving precious PCB space for design engineers." The FPC-to-board connector offers excellent EMI protection and grounding via metal shielding. The stamped contact design contributes to a long effective mating length of 0.45mm. The 44-position series has a rating of 0.35A, a rated voltage of 30V AC/DC, and an operating temperature of -55C to 85C.