New narrow feedthrough connectors save panel space

Cliff Electronics has introduced its new SLIMS FeedThrough Connector range. Providing a more compact alternative to its 26mm wide XLR form factor product range, the new connectors are only 19mm wide permitting up to 20 to be mounted in a 1U, 19" rack panel, rather than 16 of the current XLR design with cut out dimensions of 17.15mm (0.675in) x 22.86mm (0.9in) with mounting hole centres of 29mm.

The narrow form factor is employed by audio, broadcast and communications manufacturers in the USA and becoming popular in the UK and Europe for improving panel density and for products being exported to North America.

Designed and manufactured in the UK the early versions to be made available are using data connector types RJ45, HDMI and USB 2 and 3. Mounted in a black plastic shell the new connectors can be mounted to the front or rear of control panels, providing assembly options of 3.2mm plain holes, countersunk holes or 2.5mm plain self-tap holes. The mounting holes are on the central vertical axis of the connector.

“North America is the largest market for audio, broadcast and entertainment systems and has many data and industrial control system manufacturers,” says John Hall, managing director of Cliff Electronics. "Our new SLIMS FeedThrough connectors will not only grow our component sales in the USA but will also be welcomed by other system builders selling their products there.”