ERNI Expands MaxiBridge Cable Connector Family

ERNI Electronics has expanded its MaxiBridge™ cable-to-board connector family to include an enhanced set of positions and configurations. The complete portfolio now includes vertical and right-angled SMT male connectors in 2, 3, 5, 6 and 8 pin versions.

Described as the unmatched in the industry today, the single-row connector (SRC) provides 12A per contact in only a 2.54mm pitch. Similarly, the 8-pin version can handle up to 96A. With a mated height of just 5mm when used in the right angle configuration, the MaxiBridge is truly in a class by itself. The product’s competitive pricing allows MaxiBridge to be used in virtually any automotive, industrial or consumer application that demands top-level protection from vibration or accidental unmating. Current applications include LED automotive lighting and displays, industrial sensors and actuators, fans, power supplies, LCDs, TFTs, handheld units, control panels, and a host of others.

The level of detail incorporated into ERNI products continues with the MaxiBridge™ cable-to-board connector family. Connectors are built with durable SMT metal anchors to ensure high retention and strain relief forces. The female cable housings and corresponding crimp contacts utilize a primary and secondary lock feature that exceeds the load requirements for vibration/shock and high tensile forces from the cable. Although the connector is easily disconnected by hand, accidental un-mating is prevented through the provision of dual housing locks that must be operated simultaneously.

The MaxiBridge connector family is designed with four mechanical keying options in four different colors (red, green, black and blue) to guarantee fast, accurate installation that completes with a loud audible click. The female connector crimp contacts are designed for cables with AWG 24, 22 and 20 (wires or strands). The contacts for AWG 18 and 16 will be available shortly.

The MaxiBridge crimp contacts feature the most durable design for hostile environments, a double-sided spring contact for ultra-reliable active pressure on the male pin. To guarantee a perfect connection, the male pin is guided by selective gold plating in the contact area, fully coated contacts (without blank stamped edges that may corrode), and a solid female structure.

The MaxiBridge connector system is designed for fully automatic assembly on SMT assembly lines. The SMT male connectors are available in tape on reel, and the housing material can withstand the high temperatures associated with lead-free reflow soldering processes (RoHS-compliant).

Pricing for the MaxiBridge 2 pin mated pair starts at $1.00 in volume.