Molex has introduced two new series of ultra low-profile FPC connectors with very high cable retention forces for secure contact reliability. These new SMT right-angle connectors are ideal for mobile applications such as cell phones, digital cameras and other tight-packaging applications. A new 0.50mm (.020”) pitch version offers the lowest profile and smallest footprint of any similar type in the market today. It has a profile height of just 0.80mm (.031”) and depth of 3.20mm (.126”). This bottom-contact connector was originally designed for LCD backlighting applications, and includes Molex’s unique BackFlipTM actuator, which facilitates cable insertion/extraction in tight spaces.
Other features include two types of cable locks for superior FPC retention: locking tangs that fit into notches on the cable; and friction locks that provide an audible click when the actuator is fully engaged. This series also includes a 1.00mm (.039”) wipe length for good electrical contact. It is available in 4-8 circuits, rated at 0.3A and 50V, and accepts 0.12mm thick FPC cable.
A second new ultra low-profile FPC connector from Molex is offered in 0.30mm (.012”) pitch, and has a profile height of 1.05mm (.041”). This bottom contact series includes a terminal design that provides opposing forces for high cable retention in both straight and upward pull tests.
The terminal design on this 0.30mm (.012”) version also includes a cable hold feature that keeps the FPC stable and in position during actuation. An audible click on the actuator confirms full mating. This version is available in 11-51 circuits. It is rated at 0.2A and 50V and accepts 0.20mm (.008”) thick FPC.
Both versions include gold plating for reliability and durability. They also both come in embossed tape packaging for robotic pick-and-place.