Precise mating and reliable locking for Wire-to-Board connections
Adelberg, March, 31 2016 – ERNI Electronics continues enhancements of the popular SMC 1.27mm product line for ruggedized applications and requirements. The proven design of the double-sided stamped and formed spring contact provides a highly reliable electrical connection that customers have come to rely on. Rugged applications have demanded an even more secure mechanical connection between the two mated components. The SMC wire-to-board solution (connector system with female IDC right angle and male SMT vertical connectors) has been improved with numerous modifications that meet the rigid requirements of industrial automation and automotive segments. The new SMC Secure Lock variants address especially the needs of inverter designs in electric/hybrid vehicles. The enhanced and securely latched mated connector (i.e. with high vibration and shock robustness) enables relaxed systems tolerances while avoiding precise mating procedures that can add cost and compromise yield.
The new geometry of the IDC female and the PCB male connectors requires increased mating forces to achieve the enhanced locking mechanism. A secondary design benefit is that the user receives a tactile and audible feedback to confirm the connection is secure. The risk of contact damage during plugging is also eliminated due to additional guides and wider locking latches. To release the connector, a low-cost tool is available. Based on the new 50-pin SMC Secure Lock connectors, compact and high reliable (ruggedized) flat ribbon cable assemblies can be realized.
