INTERCONNECT
Power connector features that affect performance - what matters?
System power engineers have many choices in today’s power connector market and the list of options is growing. Here are some commonly asked questions: “I have a power application that requires a certain amount of current at a certain voltage with a certain amount of available space. What power connector should I use?” Or “I have a power application that requires a significant leap in efficiency. What power connector should I use?” Today’s market demands more efficient systems that cost less to operate (i.e. consume less power) without sacrificing performance. From a power connector standpoint, this means increasing power density (linear current density) and decreasing contact resistance. Decreased contact resistance results in reduced power loss through the connector thus contributing to a more efficient power system.
System designers are being asked to increase overall power efficiency while maintaining or even increasing system functionality, driving component manufacturers toward significant advances in product technology. Power connector technology is evolving to meet these trends in a variety of ways.
It is beneficial to consider the power connector features that have a material effect on system/connector performance. The following list is not exhaustive but attempts to capture the most significant features:
» Power contact design for low contact resistance and increased linear current density
» Vented housing design for enhanced heat dissipation » Power contact pitch options for linear current density and voltage flexibility (AC & DC)
» Lower connector profile heights that block less airflow » Number of adjacent power contacts energised simultaneously and its relationship to linear current density
» System airflow availability » Second source availability & joint qualification testing/documentation for guaranteed performance
» Temperature rise requirements/system ambient conditions and their relationship to current rating performance
FCI produces a range of power connectors with innovative features, ultra-low contact resistance, vented housing designs, high linear current density, modular tooling and second source agreements with joint qualification testing and design control. For more information visit
www.avnet-abacus.eu/fcipowersolutions focus magazine - issue 10 13
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