Ultra-reliable, durable three-point SMT contact for high volume, advanced automated assembly

Harwin has announced its new Sycamore surface-mount socket which provides superior pin retention and durability for high-volume applications manufactured using advanced automated systems. The design features three points of contact, providing the assurance of continuity and robustness previously only available from two-piece assemblies which are rarely available on tape and reel. Key markets for the socket include domestic and commercial gas detection systems, fire alarms and metering systems, plus many other applications which require modules and devices such as field-replaceable parts or temperature-sensitive components to be mounted to a PCB. It is a unique, proprietary company contact design with patents pending. The device is a single-part SMT socket design featuring a low profile of only 0.3mm above the PCB. Available in top and bottom entry versions, it accepts 1mm or 1.5mm diameter pins and is open-ended, so mating pin depth is not limited. Manufactured from Beryllium copper, contacts are gold-plated to ensure high conductivity and durability over a temperature range of -50C to +125C. “At Harwin, we understand the challenges of our customers right from design through to manufacturing and the unique contact design of our new Sycamore surface-mount socket addresses their need to apply advanced manufacturing processes for high volume output with no compromise on contact performance.” comments Robert Webber, product strategy manager at Harwin. Sensor & Test, Nürnberg, 30 May-1 June 2017, Hall 5, Booth 119