07-05-2020 | Harwin | Connectors, Switches & EMECH
Harwin now offers both its Datamate J-Tek and Gecko high-reliability (Hi-Rel) connectors with FPCs attached for situations where there is limited space above the board surface. Ideally suited to aerospace, motorsport, satellite and defence installations, these FPC assemblies give engineers lower profile interconnect solutions. This means that the PCBs in a system design can be stacked closer together. Through right-angled connections, these components can be held at the periphery of the board, resulting in thermal management and ease of mating benefits.
The Datamate J-Tek option comprises of a 2mm-pitch connector plus a 1A-rated 1mm-pitch FPC and is provided in a single-ended design furnished with a male connector. The Gecko options have a 1.25mm-pitch connector as well as with a 0.4A-rated 0.5mm-pitch FPC, offered in single or double-ended configurations. Standard 10-contact assemblies are provided from stock, with other assemblies available on request.
The FPCs offer a copper-clad polyimide base with a bonded overlay. There is a rigid area at either end to aid connector mounting. They can support a much tighter bend radius than conventional cables and are also suited to dynamic movement when bent. Due to the innovative four-finger design employed for the Beryllium Copper contacts, these assemblies display strong resilience to shock (up to 100G) and vibrational forces (up to 20G), without breaks in a signal. Inclusion of stainless steel jackscrews on the Datamate connectors and sturdy latches on the Gecko connectors assure interconnect integrity is maintained. The FPC assemblies have an operational temperature range meeting the relevant connectors, up to 65C to +150C. The free ends of the FPC are compatible with industry-standard FPC/FFC connectors that accept 0.3mm thickness circuits.
