Molex Announces Availability of the Mini50™ Unsealed Connector System, with a Reduced Package Size for 50% Space Savings

Molex has announced the availability of the Mini50™ Unsealed Connector System, a new miniaturized unsealed, wire-to-board system validated to automotive standards. The new package achieves a 50% space savings over traditional industry standard 0.64mm connectors and is ideal for automotive and commercial vehicle applications where space is limited such as lighting, radios, navigation systems, HVAC systems and cameras. The connectors provide reduced overall harness weight savings by allowing wire-harness customers to crimp and process smaller wire gauges versus traditional 0.64mm terminal systems. "As manufactures look to provide customers with more sophisticated features in vehicle environments, design engineers need to fit more functionality into smaller spaces without increasing the costs or compromising performance," said Michael Gonzalez, global product manager, Molex. "The Mini50 connectors from Molex feature smaller pin and terminal sizes so circuits can be packaged in a tighter space when compared to conventional 0.64mm connection systems, yet still provide cost savings and robust reliability." The Mini50 connection system features an independent secondary lock (ISL) that is part of the housing, reducing the number of components. In addition, PCB headers are released in both vertical or right angle orientations to provide wire-routing and module design flexibility. They are also constructed with a high-temperature thermoplastic housing that can withstand infrared (IR) and wave lead-free solder processing at a maximum temperature of +260°C. Current configurations are available in single-row, 4- and 8-circuit versions, and are available in multiple mechanical and visual polarization options. A dual-row, 12-circuit version is in process for release in calendar 2012. www.molex.com/link/mini50.html