Harwin Datamate J-Tek and Gecko Hi-Rel connectors with FPC assemblies

Harwin now offers both its Datamate J-Tek and Gecko high-reliability (Hi-Rel) connectors with flexible printed circuits (FPCs) attached for situations where there is little space above the board surface. Suited to aerospace, motorsport, satellite and defence installations, the FPC assemblies provide engineers with low-profile interconnect solutions, meaning the PCBs within a system design can be stacked closer together. Through right-angled connections, these components can be kept at the periphery of the board, resulting in thermal management and ease of mating benefits.

The Datamate J-Tek option consists of a 2 mm-pitch connector plus a 1 A-rated 1 mm-pitch FPC, and is supplied in a single-ended design fitted with a male connector. The Gecko options have a 1.25 mm-pitch connector along with a 0.4 A-rated 0.5 mm-pitch FPC, available in single- or double-ended configurations.

The FPCs feature a copper-clad polyimide base with a bonded overlay. There is a rigid area at each end to aid connector mounting. They are able to support a tighter bend radius than conventional cables, according to the company, and are better suited to dynamic movement when bent.

Due to the 4-finger design used for the beryllium copper contacts, the assemblies exhibit strong resilience to shock (up to 100G) and vibrational forces (up to 20G), without breaks in signal. The inclusion of stainless steel jackscrews on the Datamate connectors and sturdy latches on the Gecko connectors ensures interconnect integrity is maintained.

The FPC assemblies have an operational temperature range matching the relevant connectors, as wide as -65 to +150°C. The free ends of the FPC are compatible with industry-standard FPC/FFC connectors that accept 0.3 mm-thick circuits.