Harwin introduces height options to its multi-directional spring contacts
Four new height options have been added to Harwin’s multi-directional spring contact range. As a result it now spans from 4.00mm to 10.00mm. The compact S1921-46R and S1931-46R have free heights of 4.00mm and 5.50mm, respectively, and the S1981-46R is taller, with 8.50mm and S1991-46R has a height of 10.00mm.
Spring contacts that are suitable for vertical compression applications, is not an unusual feature but it is less common to find parts that can also allow horizontal operation, said Harwin. Support for multi-directional operation allows engineer more flexibility to meet higher density electronic designs and how PCBs are connected.
Current ratings of up to 14A enable the spring contacts to be used in low level power delivery applications, as well as signal transfer and enclosure grounding tasks. They are typically used in communications equipment, consumer electronics, industrial control and monitoring systems, instrumentation, and retail tracking devices and kiosks.
Manufactured from copper alloy, Harwin’s spring contacts provide excellent spring properties over extended periods of time with mating durability of more than 5,000 cycles, reported Harwin. The multi-directional contact design ensures a positive connection in both horizontal and vertical orientations with the mating surface and is tolerant to both wiping and sliding actions. These contacts also provide the tallest vertical spring contact heights in Harwin’s range of up to 10.00mm free height, with a working height of 9.50mm above the PCB, providing engineers with additional vertical compression PCB layout possibilities.
The multi-directional spring contacts provide a much more flexible method for connecting PCBs to accommodate different arrangements, explained Ryan Smart, vice president of product at Harwin. The new models have been added to the company’s portfolio in response to customer feedback requesting more compact spring contacts, with smaller footprints and lower profiles, as well as taller options to meet a broader spectrum of application criteria.
All Harwin’s spring contacts are supplied via tape-and-reel, making them suitable for automated assembly to the PCB. The range of surface mount assembly eliminates hand assembly.
For over 70 years, Harwin has supplied engineers with the connectors needed to meet the most demanding specifications. Its interconnect portfolio of high-reliability products is designed for high performance applications in the harshest operating environments or within the tightest of spaces.
Today, Harwin products are found in a range of markets and applications around the world, including space, avionics, defence, robotics, oil/gas, healthcare, motorsport, industrial drives, factory automation systems, autonomous vehicles, smart agriculture and electric vehicle battery management.
The company engineers and manufactures its range at its production facilities in Portsmouth, England.
The products are available from a network of global distributors and local specialist partners supported by Harwin’s worldwide aftersales team.
