Yamaichi 2-in-1 Multi-card Connector for µSD and SIM
June 2008—Yamaichi Electronics offers a new multi-card or combination card connector. The FRS016T-2000-0 offers two slots offset by 90° and stacked in one casing for microSD flash memory cards, as well as SIM chip cards. The SIM card is operated manually, and the microSD card is operated via a convenient push/push mechanism.

The small form factor, with an installation height of 2.85mm, makes the card connector ideal for the tightest spaces in mobile phones and other end devices. This combination is frequently used for SIM module and microSD card applications. As an individual component for these two card types, the FRS016T-2000-0 meets the requirement the best way. At the same time, it reduces the development and space requirement for many designs.

Card slots, with a 90° offset stacked above each other, allow for a flexible design-in where the SIM card is inserted into the internal connector in the casing below the battery pack. The microSD card slot, however, is accessed on the casing exterior. This design complies with the input/output connector.

The electromechanical component, FRS016T-2000-0, is RoHS-compliant and is delivered as tape-on-reel for automated SMT assembly. It is mounted on the top side of the circuit board.

For more information, visit www.yamaichi.eu.

Hypertronics’ High-Density, Low-Profile Mezzanine Connectors for High-Rel Applications
June 2008–Smiths Interconnect, part of the global technology company Smiths Group, announced that Hypertronics Corporation has introduced the KFT Connector Series, a 0.050 inch (1.27mm) fine pitch, high-density rectangular connector utilizing 0.40mm diameter Hyperboloid sockets. With a 0.343 inch (8.71mm) stacking height, this low profile, dual-row in-line interconnect solution is ideal for stacking, and can be used in areas where board real estate is at a premium.

KFT connectors, like all Hypertronics connectors, are engineered to allow for top performance under all dynamic environmental conditions. KFT connectors provide immunity to shock and vibration fretting, numerous linear paths of contact, and a self-wipe action that consistently results in better signal integrity. Designed with 30 percent glass-filled liquid crystal polymer (LCP) insulators and potted contacts, KFT connectors withstand the high temperatures associated with soldering. The LCP insulators also exceed NASA space requirements for outgassing, and have inherent keying features to prevent improper mating.

“We designed the KFT, using the high-performance Hypertac® technology, to be smaller in size and weight with the capacity for high pin count to accommodate tightly spaced board designs,” said Vadim Radunksy, Hypertronics’ president.

For more information, visit www.hypertronics.com or www.smiths.com.

Samtec’s Flex Circuit Jumpers for Mid-Speed Applications
June 2008—New standard flex data links (TCDL2 and FFDL2 Series) are available from Samtec. These Flex Circuit Data Links offer a choice of .050 (1.27mm) and 2mm pitch, single-ended or differential pair signal routing, and a variety of end assembly options.

The versatility of these flex circuits allows end solutions of sockets or terminals on both ends, or a socket terminal combination “transfer end” assembly. End assembly options include a low profile socket strip (CLT Series) or terminal strip (TMMH Series) for the 2mm (.0787”) pitch interface, and a low profile socket strip (CLP Series) or terminal strip (FTSH Series) for the (1.27mm) pitch interface.

System performance is estimated at 1.1 GHz at -3dB insertion loss depending on signal type. As with most Samtec interconnects, these Flex Data Links are RoHS compliant. Additionally, Samtec Flex Data Links are easily modified for custom pin counts, cable lengths, guide posts, or connector heights.

For more information, visit www.samtec.com.

Tyco Electronics’ Z-PACK TinMan Products Expand with 6-Pair Module
June 2008—Tyco Electronics introduces the addition of the new 6-pair module to its Z-PACK TinMan backplane product portfolio. The new 6-pair module offers 80 differential pairs per inch, fitting within a 1.15” card slot pitch. This module is ideal for customers looking to implement an extremely high-density, cost-effective backplane interconnect system.

As with the entire Z-PACK TinMan product family, the 6-pair module provides 12+ Gb/s performance, a fully protected right-angle receptacle for use on daughtercards, and field repairability at the module or single pin levels. Additionally, low crosstalk and high throughput performance are achieved by positioning ground contacts within each column, along with unique contact lead frame placements. Samples are available upon request.

“Tyco Electronics continues to expand the breadth of the Z-PACK TinMan product line to support market and specific customer needs. The new 6-pair product will address the increased density and speed demands of our leading edge customers,” said Bob Hnatuck, Tyco Electronics’ product manager.

For more information, visit www.tycoelectronics.com/products/tinmanpr.

ept Designs New Power Connectors for MicroTCA Systems
May 2008—ept inc. has developed a MicroTCA Power Connector that is an output connector for MicroTCA power modules.

This MicroTCA™ Power Connector is a combination connector with 72 signal contacts at 2mm spacing, and a UPM power component, which is a two-row pattern with 24 power contacts. A load of up to 15 amps per pin is permitted for the connector. This combination of signal and power contacts on one connector has set a new standard.

ept supplies their power connector with the reliable ept Tcom press^® press-fit technology, a proven press-fit contact in today’s marketplace.

Features:

• 72 signal contacts (at 2mm spacing)

• 24 power contacts

• Contacts stamped with ept Tcom press® press-fit technology

• Hot plug contact design

For more information, visit www.ept.de.

ERNI Expands Universal Power Module Range to Include 5-, 6- and 7-pin Versions
April 2008—ERNI Electronics has upgraded its hard metric Universal Power Module (UPM) to include new 5-, 6-, and 7-pin versions. These UPMs augment the existing 3-pin power modules and match their current carrying capacity of 18 amps per contact (at 20°C).

These new high-performance connectors are designed to supply power in applications in line with industry standard PICMG EXP.0 CompactPCI Express (5-pin and 7-pin versions). This completes the family of connectors supplied by ERNI in accordance with the CompactPCI Express standard, and meets requirements on both the signal side (ERmet ZD, ERmet type B8) and the power side.

The angled male multipoint connectors featuring pressfit technology are designed to supply power to daughter cards in conjunction with 2mm ERmet connectors conforming to IEC 61076-4-101. Pre-mating contacts also make it possible to enable hot-swap applications. The corresponding straight female multipoint connectors are used on the backplanes. The UPMs are compatible with other 2mm and DIN 41612 connectors, and also meet the requirements for performance grade one, and comply with RoHS.

The UPMs are available now, with lead times of 10 days. Estimated pricing begins at 2.00EUR per mated pair for volume orders of the 5Pin ERmet PowerModule, 2.10EUR per mated pair for volume orders of the 6Pin ERmet PowerModule, and 2.20EUR per mated pair for volume orders of the 7Pin ERmet PowerModule.

For more information, visit www.erni.com.

Harting HAN® K 4/4 Inserts Combine Power and Signal
February 2008—Harting’s combination connectors bring together different power and signal circuits in one connector. Power can be supplied to an application and sensor signals can be collected at the same time.

HARTING Technology Group has offered a variety of connectors for many years. The new Han® K 4/4 connector combines four power contacts with four signal contacts, and a pre-leading PE contact in the small footprint of a Han 10 B housing. Current carrying capacity of the power contacts is up to 63 amps per contact.

Power connections are made to the new insert using HARTING’s axial screw terminals, which are suitable for eight to four gauge wire. Inserts can be attached to wires in the field without the use of special tools. A safe and reliable electrical connection is easily made using a 2.5mm hex key.

The four signal contacts are each rated up to 16 amps, and feature cage-clamp terminations. Wires aretached with a small screwdriver. This makes the Han K 4/4 a field-attachable connector that can be used anywhere. Also, due to its very compact size and the finger safety of both the female and male sides, the Han K 4/4 is an alternative to round CEE plugs, if the application allows the use of a connector instead of a plug.

For more information, visit www.harting.com.

Yamaichi Power Connectors for ATCA
February 2008—Yamaichi Electronics now offers power connectors for use in ATCA systems.

ATCA (Advanced Telecommunications Computing Architecture) was initially conceived for telecommunications applications. In the meantime, the system has found applications in the most diverse areas, such as process control, image processing, and infotainment.

The basic specification PICMG 3.0 is focused on the implementation of Advanced Mezzanine Cards (AMC) used on ATCA boards, and can be exchanged in running operation (hot-swappable). For this purpose, Yamaichi already offers various connectors that distinguish themselves with their high-speed transmission properties and signal integrity. Further information is available using the keyword advancedCMT at www.advanced-cmt.com.

Besides the high-speed signal connectors, Yamaichi also has ATCA power connectors in its range.

ATCA power connectors are fitted with a 30-pin version and comply with PICMG specifications. Besides 22 signal pins, there are eight power contacts available for transmission of up to 16 amps. An additional four signal contacts are provided and can used for additional applications, upon customer request.

High-quality, high-value turned contacts, with a gold film thickness up to 30µ have been adopted. The robust plug housing design allows blind plugging, respective to board orientation.

Yamaichi offers headers (male) as angled versions for use on ATCA boards and the socket (female) as a straight version for use on the backplane. The power connectors are designed for press-fit technology and can be processed with standard tools.

For more information, visit www.yamaichi.eu.

Molex Showcases EXTreme Power Series for High-Current Applications
February 2008—Molex Incorporated featured its EXTreme Power® series of high-current power solutions at the recent APEC 2008.

“Molex EXTreme Power products are a direct response to our customers’ electrical and mechanical design challenges,” said Mike Bean, product manager, Molex Incorporated. “Since no two applications are the same, the EXTreme Power family includes several products that cover a wide range of current levels, mechanical envelopes, mating terminations, and configuration choices, giving system designers the ability to maximize their power interconnect needs.”

Available now with a standard six- to eight-week lead time, the Molex EXTreme Power family includes the:

• EXTreme PowerMass^™ Connector—An innovative, high-current power interconnect that delivers up to 350 amps per inch. As one of the highest capacity board-to-board connectors on the market, its multiple capacity power modules and wide signal count capability allows more power to be placed where needed, without wasting board space. Ideal for systems operating in challenging thermal-constrained spaces, the connector can be found in telecommunications, high and mid-range computers, power supplies, and cellular communications applications.

• EXTreme LPHPower^™ Connector—A mixed, high-current power and signal connector system that picks up where traditional connectors leave off. Designed with power blades parallel to the PC board, its extremely low-profile height of only 7.50mm (.295”) allows greater system airflow while taking up 53 percent less space than traditional connectors with the same current rating. Molex’s EXTreme LPHPower system provides up to 127 amps per linear inch of space.

• EXTreme PowerEdge^™ Connector—Incorporates Molex’s proven design elements of high-performance terminal contacts with redundant interface points for optimum mating of double-sided card edge gold fingers. For high-current requirements, this connector offers 40 amp rating per contact and 160 amps per inch of PCB real estate. It is a low-profile power card edge interface for applications in telecommunications, high and mid-range computing, uninterruptible power supplies, cellular communication, and DC-DC conversion.

• EXTreme ZPower^™ Connector—Uses a unique interface for mezzanine-style power connections. Anchored to the baseboard with press-fit power pins, the top board is screwed securely down from the top. The EXTreme ZPower connector not only transfers power between boards, but can double as an effective stand-off. Offering 50 amp and 30 amp versions, the EXTreme ZPower connector can be used in a variety of applications and industries where power connection between parallel boards is necessary in a very small space.

• EXTreme MicroPower^™ High-Current Header—Ideal for VRM/DC-DC converters or any board-to-board application where power transfer is needed through a non-separable interface in a compact design. The EXTreme MicroPower header offers a higher current density, rated at 16 amps per blade at 30°C T-rise, while its low profile design of 4.17mm (.164”) off the PCB enhances system airflow. This connector is available in right angle and vertical mounting configurations.

• EXTreme PowerPlus^™ (SSI) Connector—This expandable power and signal connector conforms to the Server System Infrastructure (SSI) open specification, as well as many power and signal combinations beyond those covered in the SSI standard. This connector system is rated at 30 amps per power blade and can be made in specified power and signal combinations to suit the application.

• EXTreme PowerBBC^™ Connector—A compact, high-current connector for direct mating of power bus bars typically found in power supply or power distribution applications. Rated up to 320 amps, this connector offers over 20 percent more current than competing products. Its high-performance contact design is rated for current interruption to match true hot-plugging requirements.

For more information, visit www.molex.com/link/ext-power.html.

RADIALL Introduces Single-Channel Fiber Optic Connector
June 2008—RADIALL announced the launch of a new connector: the LXC-R, single-channel fiber optic connector for harsh environments.

This fiber optic connector is small and robust, and is ideally suited for applications requiring single-channel transmission in extreme environmental conditions, such as aerospace and military applications, and anywhere a robust fiber optic link is required.

The LxC-R product family includes keyed plugs and receptacles with various options for different environmental sealing requirements. Easy to install with a simple jam nut, the LxC-R does not require specific tools.

Examples of applications

•  RF-over-Fiber (antenna remote, phase array radar, military radio networking) and all radio signal conversion over a fiber in severe environments.

• Sensors (temperature, strain, pressure, vibrations) for aeronautic, military, and medical.

• IFE (seat box-connections, on-board fiber optic equipments)

In the future, the LxC-R range will expand to include options for higher sealing levels and high temperature requirements.

For more information, visit www.radiall.com.

ITT’s LC Fiber Optic Connector Meets Lucent and Telcordia Requirements
March 2008—ITT Interconnect Solutions has developed a fiber optic connector for operation in harsh environments. The Cannon PHD SuperLC connector features a small form factor and maintains the same high optical performance characteristics of a standard LC product while operating in severe environments.

“Until now, the LC configuration commonly used to connect fiber optic devices was not able to function reliably in high temperature or high vibration environments,” said Keith Teichmann, director of marketing for ITT Interconnect Solutions. “With superior mechanical durability, including a thermal plastic housing and a locking feature to prevent mechanical release, the connector is capable of withstanding high temperatures and thermal cycling, along with elevated levels of shock and vibration.”

The Cannon PHD SuperLC connector meets or exceeds Lucent 640-252-053 and Telcordia GR-326 requirements. The connector is ideal for military/aerospace, telecom service, and industrial data communications applications.

The SuperLC connector features a tunable optical cartridge that functions as a standalone optical element separate from the connector housing and accepts multi-mode or single-mode ferrules. The locking mechanism also prevents thermal stress of the latch at high temperatures. Crimp termination of the cable to the rear body ensures ease-of-use and quick field repair.

Typical pricing for the Cannon PHD Super LC connector ranges from $20 to $25 depending on quantity. Lead time is from four to six weeks.

For more information, visit www.ittcannon.com.

Tyco Electronics’ SFP+ Product Designed for Higher Data Rates
Supports 8G Fibre Channel and 10G Ethernet Applications
Tyco Electronics has released its SFP+ product family, which extends the use of the Small Form-Factor Pluggable (SFP) interconnect up to 10 Gb/s. This system meets the performance requirements of SFF (Small Form-Factor) specification SFF-8431, and supports 8G Fibre Channel and 10G Ethernet applications. The SFP+ product family includes cages, connectors, and copper cable assemblies.

Cages are being offered in single-port, ganged, and stacked configurations with integrated connectors. The ganged SFP+ cages include designs with EMI springs or elastomeric gaskets. Stacked cages include integrated connectors and offer a one-step press-fit application. One-degree mount cages are also offered for PCI applications. Heatsinks and light pipes are available as options.

The 20-position enhanced SMT connector is designed for the higher data rates, and maintain compliance with the original SFP MSA, making it a drop-in replacement.

Copper cables provide a cost-effective solution for short-reach applications. Active and passive equalization are offered, with a simple pull-to-release latch mechanism. The plug features comply with SFF-8432, which defines the pluggable module for SFP+.

Visit Tyco Electronics’ booth #607 at DesignCon 2008 for the latest SFP+ products from the innovator in pluggable I/O development or visit www.tycoelectronics.com. 

Rosenberger Introduces SMA Push-On™ and SMA Quick-Lock™
March 2008—Rosenberger introduces two unique products to improve productivity in test applications. The SMA Quick-Lock™ provides a unique locking mechanism to replace threaded SMA male connections. The SMA Push-On™ offers a faster slide-on connection. Both work with any SMA female connector.

These innovative products are offered as test cables in various sizes, cable types, and configurations, and provide excellent electrical performance to 18GHz.

For more information, visit www.rosenbergerna.com.

Radiall’s 7/16 Coaxial Flange Receptacle Reduces Telecom Costs
March 2008—Aimed at the telecommunications industry and based on the company's expertise in the RF field, the new 7/16 coaxial flange receptacle incorporates a design concept and composite materials that significantly reduce the generation of third order passive intermodulation products. It is easy to install and significantly reduces the total cost of ownership for customers.

Radiall has introduced a new receptacle concept whereby the contact pressure on the equipment side is generated by pressure applied by the 7/16 plug. Consequently, when a plug is mated to the receptacle, the tightening torque is diverted by the thread system into an axial force that is applied to the reference plane, resulting in equal distribution of pressure on both contact junctions. Effectively, the entire force generated by the tightening torque is efficiently transformed and used as an axial force on the contact junctions at the reference plane and panel junction. This improves the intermodulation level and its stability.

Through this concept, the receptacle body is only used as a mechanical support, which guides the reduced mass contact and no longer has an electrical function. This new degree of freedom has the added advantage of enabling the use of different materials in its construction.

In deciding on the material for the 7/16 flange receptacle, the main considerations were that it be very lightweight, have high corrosion resistance, and be colorable to enable color-coding. Material selection was also based on:

• Material stiffness

• Yield limit ultimate strength

• Creeping speed and stress relaxation

• Thermal dilatation coefficient

• Sensitivity to harsh outdoor environments—corrosion, UV ageing, humidity, etc.

• Flammability rating

• Density

• Price

Taking all of these factors into consideration, in-depth analysis revealed that the use of a composite material would meet these requirements and offer considerable advantages, including a weight reduction of more than 50 percent.

Not only does the weight reduction of the components reduce the overall weight of the final module (power amplifiers, filters, etc.) but it also reduces transportation costs. When the overall cost of ownership is considered, the company claims an improvement in cost at all levels, resulting in a more competitive overall solution.

For more information, visit www.radiall.com.

Molex Expands its BradConnectivity™ mPm® Valve Connectors
New product provides easy and economical electrical valve connectivity

June 2008—Molex Incorporated expands its range of BradConnectivity™ mPm® valve connectors with a new family of overmolded Junior Timer connectors in straight and 90-degree versions. These pre-wired overmolded connectors offer an economical alternative to hard wiring, and mate with industry standard Junior Timer connector interfaces on solenoids and other mobile hydraulics devices, and other harsh environment applications.

The Junior Timer connectors are also available with surge suppression circuitry that extends the life of the coil and control circuitry. LED indication is built into the connector head for easy identification of system status.

“In addition to being greener, our overmolded connectors with pre-wired cable (cordsets), increase performance and reduce cost compared with hard wiring,” said Antonio Cantoni, global product marketing manager, fluid power.

With an IP65 environmental rating, the Junior Timer provides protection in harsh and demanding environments. Plus the cable locking clip protects the connection in high vibration applications.

Junior Timer cordsets are 100 percent electrically tested for plug and play performance. The integrated surge suppression circuitry (VDR) protects the system and extends overall life.

To learn more about these and other Brad products, visit www.woodhead.com or www.molex.com

Tyco Electronics Announces VAL-U-LOK Connectors
Rebrands Line of Economical Wire-to-Board and Wire-to-Wire Line
June 2008—The VAL-U-LOK connector system from Tyco Electronics is a low-cost, wire-to-wire and wire-to-board connector system with a 4.2 x 4.2mm centerline. This connector system finds use in a variety of applications, including the HVAC, vending, gaming, and appliance industries. Previously called PE Series, the line has been renamed to highlight its value proposition. VAL-U-LOK connectors are a lower cost, fully intermateable and interchangeable alternative to the Molex Mini-Fit Jr. Series connectors, and are also intermateable with AMP-DUAC connectors. 

The VAL-U-LOK system consists of

• Contacts for 26 to 18 AWG wire

• Plug and receptacle connector housings for free-hanging and panel-mount applications

• Board-mount right-angle, vertical, or blind-mate header assemblies

Sizes range from two to 24 positions for double-row configurations, and three to five positions for single-row versions. The header assemblies come with pre-loaded contacts and may be installed on the printed circuit board manually or automatically using robotic equipment. All housings are polarized for easier mating, and locking latches help maintain reliable connections.

This system is available in UL94V-2 or UL94V-0 flammability-rated nylon with contacts in brass or phosphor bronze with tin or gold plating. RoHS-compliant lead-free line to help promote a cleaner environment, the connector system is UL component recognized and CSA certified.

For more information on Tyco Electronics VAL-U-LOK connector system, contact Tyco Electronics’ technical support center at 800.522.6752, or newproducts@tycoelectronics.com.

RIA CONNECT’s AJS08G Mini USB Type B Receptacle
July 2008—The AJS08G mini B-style USB connector offers high speed and miniaturization for OTG (on-the-go) devices. RIA's AJS08G connector is a surface mount device, and is available in tape-and-reel. Constructed with a high-temperature-resistant nylon resin, the AJS08G is designed for high volume RoHS-compliant reflow solder applications. The shell is nickel plated for durability and scratch resistance.

For more information, visit www.riaconnect.com.

Samtec Expands Edge Rate Family of Interconnects
May 2008—Samtec has expanded its line of board-to-board and cable-to-board solutions featuring its rugged Edge Rate contact. These systems are designed for applications in which signal integrity and durability are critical. These specially designed contacts provide superior impedance matching, reduced broadside coupling and crosstalk, and high cycle life.

Board level systems include the robust 0.8mm (.0315”) pitch Edge Rate interconnect strip system (ERM8/ERF8 Series) and the high-speed RiseUp® MicroCard stacking system (RU8 Series). SEARAY™ open pin field arrays (SEAM/SEAF Series) and DP Array™ differential pair arrays (DPAM/DPAF Series) offer high-density solutions with maximum grounding and routing flexibility.

Cable-to-board systems include the signal integrity optimized 0.8mm (.0315”) pitch, 50 ohm micro coax Edge Rate strip (ERCDA Series), and 100 ohm Twinax Data Bank high-speed/high-density systems (GCCA/GCAM Series), as well as the 100 ohm Twinax MicroCard assembly (EEDP Series).

Pricing begins at 8¢ per line in production volume.

For more information, visit www.samtec.com.

HARTING’s Next-Generation D-Sub with Angled Low Profile Surface Mount
May 2008—HARTING Technology group introduces a surface mount assembly version of the low profile angled D-sub.

The SMT D-sub design has been optimized around key features to provide reliable and long-term usage. It allows surface mounting of this very standard connector, thus simplifying PCB assemblies and broadening its range of application.

It is available in nine to 25 positions, with a large choice of mounting hardware:  

• M3 and 4-40 UNC threaded insert; M3 and 4-40 UNC female screw locks.

• Performance level 2 and 3 are standards; PL1 upon request. Nine- and 15-pole versions are delivered in 160 piece reels; for larger sizes, packaging will be made according to the customer equipment.

For more information, visit www.harting.com.

SMK High-Definition Multimedia Interface Type C Receptacle
April 2008—SMK’s new HDMI™ receptacle has a depth of only 6.9mm and is capable of fast signal transmission of digital images and sound with a 100 ohm differential impedance. This connector is especially suited for use in small audio/visual equipment.

A flange for the screw increases the stability of the receptacle and increases resistance to torque when the cable is inserted.

The receptacle is supplied in an embossed tape for automatic mounting, is available with or without a flange, and either surface mount (SMT) or DIP mounting are options.

This HDMI™ receptacle is ideal for small A/V equipment, digital cameras, and mobile phones.

The HDMI Type C receptacle features a rating of 40 volts AC (RMS), 0.5 amps, contact resistance of 30mohms maximum for the contact and 100mohms maximum at 500 volts DC, operating temperature from -40° to +80°C, and operating life of 5,000 cycles. The part number is CSS5019-xRxxF.

For more information, visit www.smkusa.com.

Spectrum Control High-Performance EMI Filtered D-Sub Connectors
Now with Shorter Lead Times
March 2008—Spec