A new line of Mini-HMC™ heavy-duty connectors from Molex Inc. provides up to a 65 percent space savings for applications such as small robots, industrial controls, factory automation, and production and medical equipment. The Mini-HMC system carries seven amps, which makes it suitable for both signal and power applications.
Molex adapted and downsized some of the unique features of its existing line of HMC (Heavy Duty Modular) robotics connectors into the Mini-HMC system. A crescent-shaped metal hood with single action lock provides space savings and easy handling, versus double bale-lock types. The "one-touch" spring lock also enables the lever to be smoothly engaged and locked firmly into place.
The 3.00mm (.118") modular housings can be easily inserted and removed from the back-side of the die-cast panel-mount shell without any tools. This provides easier assembly and field-servicing compared to circular versions. Housings can also be placed on the cable hood or panel-mount sides for added design flexibility.
Housings come in modular units of ten circuits, with a maximum of 40 circuits per side. The Mini-HMC system uses crimp termination, which provides higher reliability and assembly productivity than competitive hand-solder versions. Terminals are gold-plated and available in 18-28 wire gauges.
Plug shells come with protective metal bell-cap assemblies and PVC inserts for cable and dust-debris protection. The Mini-HMC system complies with key industrial standards including VDE 0627/VDE0110, IEC 204-1/IEC 529 (IP65) and UL and CSA.
Pricing for the Mini-HMC system varies. For a typical 40-circuitassembly, pricing is $45 in quantities of 5000 pieces.
