Automotive-grade connector provides high pin count from a small footprint

New from Hirose is the compact GT8E Series of internal wire-to-board or wire-to-wire interface connectors that can handle demanding automotive conditions. The GT8E Series connector features a 2mm pitch, providing a high pin count from a small footprint. Designed for internal use in ECUs, inverters and battery chargers within automotive systems, the versatile GT8E Series connector is available in a wide variety of versions including wire-to-board and wire-to-wire; single or double row; right angle, and straight, in-line plug, as well as SMT or through-hole soldering. Available from 2-position single row modules to 24-position dual row models, GT8E Series offers a broad selection to meet many application requirements. With reliable crimp contact connections, pin-in-paste metal fittings that improve PCB retention force, and a highly reliable positive lock latching structure featuring a clear tactile click, the GT8E Series performs well in harsh automotive environments including thermal shock, vibration, high temperature and sulphur dioxide exposure, says the company. "The GT8E Series connector offers the highest pin count in the smallest footprint versus previously available products on the market," said Rick van Weezel, vice-president of sales and marketing, Hirose Electric USA. "Combining a robust design and high performance capability, the GT8E family of unsealed connectors is especially desirable for use inside inverter and battery systems in hybrid electric vehicles." The GT8E Series employs an advanced pin-in-paste method to improve PCB retention force and enable a one-time reflow process with other SMT components. With an operating temperature range of -40C to +125C, the GT8E Series has a rated voltage of 250VAC, rated current of 3 Amps with 20 to 22 AWG wire or 1A with 24 to 28 AWG wire, contact resistance of 30mohm maximum, and insulation resistance of 100Mohm minimum at 500VDC. In addition to automotive ECUs, inverters and battery systems, the GT8E Series of unsealed connectors is also well suited for smart grid devices, servo motors, mounting equipment and robotics applications, says the company.