High reliability FPC connector delivers space saving design for consumer electronic devices

Hirose has developed a compact FPC connector offering a very low-profile of only 0.5mm with a space-saving 0.25mm pitch and depth of 3.15mm when locked. The FH64MA Series offers a profile reduction in a variety of portable and consumer devices such as active trackers, laptops/tablets, smart phones, smart watches, and more. These connectors feature a back flip style actuator with a top contact. Their unique user-friendly design has a mating guide for smooth FPC insertion. The guide easily aligns the FPC, even when inserted from a slanted upper direction or from an offset pitch, and correct FPC insertion can be checked via the FPC pattern. The series also incorporates a metal lock mechanism, allowing for horizontal insertion and withdrawal. It produces a clear tactile click that insures complete insertion. A sharp edge on the contact beam presses into the FPC stiffener, increasing retention force to 6.4N in horizontal direction. "Combining small size and lighter weight, the FH64MA Series connector is designed for consumer goods including the growing wearable electronics market. The FH64MA Series super low profile design matches the low profile of peripheral components, enabling the reduction of overall device thickness. In addition, the unique back flip and proprietary contact design produces high-FPC retention forces to ensure reliable operation even in low pin-count connectors," said Rick van Weezel, vice president of sales and marketing at Hirose Electric USA.