Making a Tight Connection

Squeezing more technology into a limited space requires space-conscious design for all components — including the connectors. Similar to other connectors, small is just one of the attributes. Using surface mount technology (SMT), or providing high flexibility to the point of a customized assembly, the challenge for performance at high speeds simply increases with small connectors. Smaller connectors address the requirements for board to board interconnections, connect displays and enable high-operation in base stations.

LOW-PROFILE DISPLAY CONNECTOR

To connect a notebook or desktop PC to a LCD TV or monitor, Molex Incorporated's DisplayPort System includes a user-friendly, low-profile connector and cable assemblies that meet the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) standard requirements. Smaller than Digital Visual Interface (DVI) the interconnection system provides greater display resolution and superior audio reception based on its higher density and increased speed capability. Based on the VESA interface standard that uses a common approach for both internal and external display connections, the DisplayPort system can be used for connections between a DVD player and TV display, PC and TV, or a PC and projector. With a metal shield and polarized D-shape mating interface, the 20-circuit, 0.50-mm pitch SMT external receptacles have full EMI/RFI protection. Available in standard lengths of 3 and 15m, cable assemblies will consist of 20-circuit plugs designed for overmolding. Get more information on Molex Inc.'s DisplayPort Interconnect System.

In addition to being small, flexibility is a key design aspect of AirBorn's N-series Vertical Surface Mount connectors. The nanominiature connectors can be custom-designed providing options for greater flexibility when mounting holes and turning jackscrews are included for board to board or flex to board interconnections. To assist in solder joint inspection and washout, the shell has an exclusive recessed area. Threaded mounting holes for the SMT connector provide a secure platform. The connectors have stainless steel jackscrews and the printed wiring board (PWB) design can eliminate the mounting ears if required. With connectors available in receptacle or plug versions, the PWB design also allows internal hex jackscrews access. Meeting or exceeding the MIL-DTL-32139 performance requirements for a nano contact interface, the dual-row connectors are available in sizes 9, 15, 21, 25, 31, 37, 51, 65, 69 and 85 contacts. Get more information on AirBorn's N-series vertical surface mount connectors.

PRODUCT HEAD DASH SLIM PANEL CONNECTOR

Tyco Electronics' Slim I/O cable connector for panel applications provides power and/or signal I/O availability for short and long-reach cables. Base Transmission Stations (BTS) and other communication applications benefit from the improved I/O flexibility. With slot pitch as narrow as 15 mm, the connector can perform at Gigabit speeds and allows incorporation of hard metric packaging for computer and telecommunication system and other applications, such as instrumentation. The plug accepts a cable with outer diameters of 6 to 9 mm. Supporting applications with data rates up to 3.125 Gbits/sec (differential signaling) and edge rates of 100 psec, the connector complies with IEC 917 and IEC 61076-4-101. In addition, the connector system now meets the Open Base Station Architecture Initiative (OBSAI) appendix “F” specification. Units are available with optional passive equalization of signals. Get more information on Tyco Electronics' Slim I/O cable connector.