Full system solution puts mobile devices in dock

The new HandyLink connector system aims to reduce design and resource costs for a variety of handheld and mobile device applications.

The new HandyLink connector system aims to reduce design and resource costs for a variety of handheld and mobile device applications.

The new connector system from Molex is a complete, compact solution designed for cellular phones, PDAs, retail scanners, barcode readers, GPS devices, pen notepad computers, human and vehicular tracking devices, portable medical and industrial devices and more.

With a 0.80mm pitch, the HandyLink connector system offers higher current capabilities - it can carry a continuous current of 1.5A, with the ability to carry up to 3A, depending on the circuit configuration.

This one-stop system solution is available from Molex in a right-angle SMT receptacle version and both wire and PCB plug versions that are ideally suited to wire-to-board or board-to-board applications.

For docking applications, the HandyLink connector system offers both perpendicular and parallel mounted versions of the cradle connector.

The connector system includes a wide array of cable assemblies and accessories with full turnkey capability on finished cradle assemblies.

Capabilities range from design to manufacturing and assembly.

"Today's handheld and mobile device market offers new services and features that require users to constantly connect to multiple gadgets, making design flexibility a key issue for the manufacturers of these devices", said Debbie Kiley, Group Product Manager, Connector Products Division, Molex.

"The HandyLink connector system gives handheld and mobile device manufacturers a one-stop solution that provides the design flexibility, long-term performance and reliability needed to help them create a complete value-added product".

The HandyLink SMT receptacle connector incorporates a moulded sealed design that supports various ingress protection requirements, as well as a high-temperature, thermoplastic housing that withstands lead-free processing.

This version allows for 20,000 mating cycles, making it perfect for small, pluggable handheld devices.

The HandyLink SMT receptacle connector also features: SMT receptacle leads to allow population to both sides of the PCB; low profile height of 3.5mm and compact width; integrated, solderable tabs that provide PCB grounding and retention to PCB during processing; and tape and reel packaging for robotic pick and place processing.

For increased design flexibility the HandyLink is available in both PCB and wire termination plugs.

The PCB plug version is ideal as a mask for the overmoulding of boot and strain relief, and the wire plug version incorporates a shelf feature on the solder tails that makes it easier for wire placement and hand soldering.

These versions also allow for 20,000 mating cycles, which is optimal for applications where multiple mating is required.

The PCB and wire versions also have an integrated latch design inside the alignment posts to prevent wire entanglement during shipment or processing.

They feature a first-mate/last-break design that prevents damage to electrical circuitry in the system by having the ground pin mate first, followed by the power pin and finally by the signal pins.

They can also be used with 22AWG maximum, offering a broad wire gauge range that provides mechanical and electrical cabling flexibility With parts available for both perpendicular and parallel mounting to the PCB, the HandyLink cradle connector version offers design flexibility for all docking applications.

Its robust design also incorporates a screw mount hold down that provides additional mechanical stability when attaching to the PCB.

It also features SMT leads and a high-temperature, thermoplastic housing that withstands lead-free processing.

It employs tape and reel packaging for robotic pick and place processing and an integrated patented latch design that provides ESD protection and mechanical integrity during shipping and handling The HandyLink connector system features diverse, off-the-shelf cable assemblies and accessories for a variety of applications.

The HandyLink double-ended cable, with 16 circuits loaded, provides a customised pinout to attach different cables to the same connector for different applications in the same packaging.

The HandyLink-to-USB A cable allows for fast connection to PCs to download and/or upload data is 1m long, but allows for customisation.

The HandyLink-to-Mini B cable provides a fast and reliable direct interconnection to other devices.

The HandyLink-to-Car Adapter cable is a 1m coil and retractable cable which adapts to car lighter receptacle to power the device.

The HandyLink-to-Headset is 1.5m long for superior comfort during use.

The HandyLink-to-Wall Plug adapter provides AC/DC capability for quick and easy battery charging (1.5m long).

Standard HandyLink cable assemblies can also be overmoulded in straight and right-angle configurations, reducing initial lead-time and increasing the sample response time.

Additionally, Molex has strategic alliances with various suppliers who have the capability of personalising any cable assembly with individual customer logos.

"Customised cradle assembly offers our customers a full, turnkey solution that also allows for pack-out capabilities, making their products consumer shelf-ready", said Jairo Guerrero Product Manager, Integrated Products Division, Molex.

"Plus, with Molex's global capabilities for manufacturing cable assemblies and accessories, our customers can also get the localised support to meet their deliver, design and cost expectations".

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