Ultralight SM coaxial connectors keep low profile

New SMT coaxial connectors from Flint Distribution enable 2.5mm-high PCB-mounted connections, and are among the lightest in the world.

New SMT coaxial connectors from Flint Distribution enable 2.5mm-high PCB-mounted connections, and are among the lightest in the world.

The U.FL series connectors, which are suitable for signals up to 3GHz, feature a receptacle of mass 15.7mg with a choice of plug assemblies for applications using 0.8mm single-layer shielded or 1.32mm double-layer shielded cables.

The 0.8 and 1.32mm plug and centre contact assemblies have masses of 53.7 and 59.1mg, respectively.

The connectors are manufactured by Hirose, and are designed to produce a positive locking sensation despite their extremely small size.

At 2.5mm, the coupling height is 0.7mm less than the preceding E.FL miniature coaxial series, from which the new family is derived.

The U.FL series provides connections at right angles onto the PCB with an SMT receptacle.

Potential uses include portable and mobile telephones, wireless communication devices, antenna connections for Bluetooth and other electronic measuring instruments, GPS receivers and a wide variety of products that require low-profile lightweight internal coaxial connections.

U.FL series connectors can be supplied in embossed tape for use with automatic placement equipment.

The connectors are rated at 60V AC (RMS), with insulation resistance 500ohm and 20mohm maximum contact resistance at the centre contact.

The maximum outside contact resistance is 10mohm.

The U.FL series achieves VSWR of 1.3 or less, enabling use with signals from DC to 3GHz.

The nominal characteristic impedance is 50ohm, satisfying the impedance matching requirements of most applications.

Operating temperature range is -40 to +90C, at up to 90% operating humidity.

The connectors have passed rigorous tests for repetitive insertion, vibration, shock, humidity, temperature cycling and salt spray.

High electrical and mechanical performance is ensured by high quality construction, including gold plated centre contacts and silver plated shell contact.

The insulating components are made of high-quality PBT resin (plug), and liquid crystal polymer (receptacle).

An extraction jig for easy disconnection is also available.

Flint is also able to supply male and female SMA conversion adapters suitable for performance measurements, and an inspection receptacle enabling the continuity, withstand voltage and other aspects of the harness product to be verified.

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