Multi-directional spring contacts bring flexibity to boards
Surface mount spring contacts released by Harwin are capable of supporting both horizontal and vertical connection orientation. They are available in smaller sizes than were previously available. The S1961-46R has a 3.55mm height and the S1971-46R has a height of 4.55mm.
Although there are many vertical-only spring contacts available, components that can also support horizontal operation are less common, says Harwin. The demand for higher density electronic designs means that engineers need greater flexibility for connected boards, says Harwin, with support for multi-directional operation.
The S1961-46R and S1971-46R both have current ratings of 14A. This enables them to be used in low level power delivery applications, as well as signal transfer and enclosure grounding tasks. They have a mating durability of more than 5,000 cycles. Connection is through touch rather than a wiping action, which is claimed to offer a greater operational life than horizontal tin-plated connectors.
“Our initial multi-directional spring contact . . . provide a much more flexible method for connecting PCBs to accommodate different arrangements,” explains Ryan Smart, new product introduction (NPI) product manager at Harwin. The company has received requests from customers to develop more compact options, with smaller footprints and lower profiles, leading to the S1961-46R and S1971-46R, explained Smart.
The S1961-46R and S1971-46R complement Harwin’s multi-directional spring contact S1941-46R, S1941-42R and S1951-46R, with larger form factors.
All of Harwin’s spring contact products are supplied as tape-and-reel. The surface mount design means they are suitable for automated assembly lines using pick and place machines.
Harwin provides high-reliability interconnect products. Capable of dealing with the most challenging of application demands, its connectors prove pivotal in modern avionics, defence, space, motorsport, oil and gas, medical and industrial systems.
Harwin’s engineering team has developed an unmatched array of hi-rel products which include Gecko, Datamate, Mix-Tek and M300 product lines. Recent additions include the Archer Kontrol industrial connectors and the 60A-rated high current Kona. Complementing them are the company’s EMI/RFI shielding products, a portfolio of PCB hardware and a selection of industry standard connectors.
Products are all available with short lead times via its extensive sales and distribution network. Harwin has sales offices and manufacturing facilities in the UK, the USA, Germany, France and Singapore.
