New Industry Products

Methode Power Introduces New Power Connector with Low Insertion Force, Low Contact Resistance & Long Cycle Life

October 27, 2009 by Jeff Shepard

Methode Power Solutions Group announced what it describes as an innovative new class of patent pending power connectors named "PowerBud"® that is said to successfully overcome key limitations of conventional power connectors. The PowerBud technology lowers both contact resistance and contact normal force without increasing connector size. According to the company, the resulting connectors exhibit lower insertion force, lower temperature rise, lower power loss and higher cycle life than conventional high current connectors.

The PowerBud connector is initially available in a single-contact form called the EBC (Embedded PowerBud Connector), with knurled outer side walls allowing direct press-fit insertion into busbars, printed circuit boards and FusionLugs®. Installation or press-in is accomplished using any flat surface and does not require any special tooling. The current rating is dependent on the physical size of the pin and the heat-sinking capability of the mounting medium.

Embedded PowerBud connectors are available in pin sizes and ratings of 9.1mm (300A), 5.7 mm (240A), 3.6 mm (160A) and 2.4 mm (120A). The connector current rating is dependent on the heat sinking capability of the mounting surface.

Typical contact resistance ratings at 100A are (9.1mm) 45µΩ, (5.7mm) 50µΩ, (3.6mm) 90µΩ, and (2.4mm) 125µΩ.

Samples are available. Production lead time is typically four weeks. Pricing ranges from $5.90 to $6.91 in quantities of 1,000.