It enhances Molex's already extensive range of Picoflex connectors, which are suitable for high-density applications where space is a critical factor and power and signal transmission is required.
This more robust version is ideal for a wide range of demanding applications in the industrial, automotive, medical, and multimedia sectors.
“The innovative, patent-pending Picoflex locking design increases the retention force between the header and the female connector by at least 50% compared to our standard friction-lock header,” says Desmond Ryan, product manager at Molex, adding, “The increased retention force ensures a firm and reliable connection in applications where wiring may be subjected to compressive and tensile forces or shifting during assembly, preventing decoupling between the header and the female connector.”
The Picoflex SMT header is typically used where part of the wiring protrudes from the assembly. Without the positive locking mechanisms, the tension to which the wiring is exposed, especially during final assembly, can cause the header to partially or completely disconnect from the female connector. This partial disconnection is a cause for concern in initial factory tests, where electrical contact and operation are verified, but the product subsequently fails in practice.
The Picoflex header with a locking mechanism minimizes these failures.
Featuring a standard interface design, the Picoflex header with surface-mount technology (SMT) and a locking mechanism offers backward compatibility and allows connections to Picoflex 90327 female connectors. It features a high-profile polarizing pivot that prevents decoupling between the header and the female connector, aiding in the assembly process. Furthermore, thanks to the polyphthalamide (PPA) encapsulation material, the header can withstand reflow temperatures up to 260°C. The gold plating option, as opposed to standard tin plating, simplifies mating and contributes to higher mating cycles, making it ideal for environments that operate consistently at high temperatures or in low-current applications.
