New automotive rooftop antenna connector eases installation

Hirose has developed a small wire-to-board connector that significantly reduces the installation time of automotive rooftop antennas. The multi-terminal GT36 Series connector provides a one-step connection of multiple coaxial cables to the PCB, simplifying the mating operation. The compact GT36 Series internal wire-to-board connector enables the attachment of four coaxial lines to automotive antennas including shark fin antennas. The GT36 Series has a rugged positive lock structure that offers a lock strength of 98N. A clear tactile snap and audible click ensures proper mating, while a lock guard prevents cable tangling during wiring and accidental lock release. The highly-reliable plug assembly features a retainer that delivers secure terminal locking and high vibration resistance, making it well suited to automotive applications. "The GT36 Series connector drastically reduces the assembly procedure of automotive roof antennas, decreasing installation time and cost," said Rick van Weezel, vice-president of sales and marketing, Hirose Electric USA. "Hirose continues to expand our product offering to provide connectivity solutions that address the needs of our customers in the automotive market." Delivering high frequency performance up to 3GHz, the GT36 Series wire-to-board connector provides high impedance matching and low insertion loss. When used with the GT21 Series in-line connector, the GT36 Series further simplifies assembly and improves efficiency. The one-to-four position GT21 Series in-line connector features low insertion force and is attachable with a clip. The GT36 Series is RoHS and ELV (end of life vehicles directive) compliant. With an operating temperature range of -40C to +105C, the GT36 Series has a rated voltage of 50VAC, rated current of 1A, contact resistance of 50mohm maximum, and insulation resistance of 100Mohm minimum at 500VDC, says the company.