Tough new dual-row high-power wire-to-board connector saves space

New from ERNI is news of the expansion of its compact MaxiBridge wire-to-board connector family with a new dual-row version. The 10-pin or 20-pin connectors offer a current carrying capacity of up to 12A per contact on a 2.54mm grid for heavy-duty and space-saving connections. Available in vertical and right-angle version, the dual row MaxiBridge connector system is offered with 2 x 5 and 2 x 10 positions. The straight and angled male connectors are fitted with SMT terminations and proven strain relief features, while the female connector accommodates a 180 degree cable exit with corresponding contact chambers for crimp and poke terminations. The female contacts on the MaxiBridge incorporate a dual beam construction with two points of contact for harsh, high-vibration environments that require high-current connectivity. The MaxiBridge connector system has a moulded-in active latch with an audible click confirmation that ensures proper connection has been made between the plug and receptacle. In order to release, dual buttons on the sides of the connector must be depressed. This dual latch configuration ensures ruggedness and reliability in high-vibration applications, without compromising valuable board space. Redundant retention features keep crimp contacts in place via a spring-loaded clip built into the contact. A secondary lock incorporated in the connector housing offers maximum contact retention, says the company. "Not only does the MaxiBridge dual row wire-to-board connector system offer a market leading current density, it incorporates many design and safety features that make it one of the most reliable and rugged connectors in the industry, all in a space saving design," said Sam Hines, product coordinator at ERNI. The RoHS-compliant MaxiBridge is assured for up to 500 mating cycles and accommodates wire gauges from AWG 18 to AWG 26. The dual row MaxiBridge connector is offered in four colours, and each colour has unique corresponding mechanical keying features that will only mate with male/female connectors of the same colour. Mating polarization is also assured. These added features further ensure error-free mating, ease of integration and maximum safety for end users, says the company. The MaxiBridge dual row connector system combines small size with high-power density and high reliability for applications including automotive (tested to the LV214 automotive vibration specifications), consumer, industrial, lighting, medical, telecom and transportation.