Molex introduces new line of through-hole Micro-Lock connectors

Molex has introduced a new line of through-hole Micro-Lock single-row connectors for wire-to-board applications in datacom, telecom, networking equipment, and consumer electronics including gaming devices and LCD and PDP flat-panel displays. The positive locking 2-mm-pitch connectors feature a low mated profile of 6 mm and a crash-free design to prevent damage to header pins during connector mating.   "As flat-panel TVs and other electronic devices become thinner, with more densely packed electronics, mating of wire-to-board connectors can result in problems with terminals or pins requiring high insertion forces and becoming damaged," explains Molex regional product manager Goji Tanabe. "The new space-saving Micro-Lock connector system delivers the industry's lowest insertion force for a 2-mm-pitch connector—combined with damage-proof pin protection to prevent header pins from being bent or crushed during angled mating."   Rated for 3 A/pin and available in 4 to 15 circuits, the connector system features a through-hole design. The bellows-shaped terminal and round header pin enable lower insertion and extraction forces, a key requirement in many electronic products. Additionally, the bellows-shaped terminal design ensures more reliable electrical performance and a reduced pin angle compared to tuning fork and U-shaped terminal designs.   Micro-Lock connectors include guard walls and detent features that guide the housing into the header without allowing the pin to be touched until the housing is aligned for safe, crash-free mating. The wide mating latch with a two-point positive locking system provides secure mating retention and protects header pins from damage that can result in signal degradation or interference.   "With one of the lowest profile positive-latch through-hole connectors on the market, the Micro-Lock connectors deliver the right fit for OEMs who want robust performance and reliability," adds Tanabe.   Manufactured in environmentally friendly low halogen material, the through-hole design is the first release in a series of Molex Micro-Lock connectors scheduled to include other features, such as SMT, vertical and dual-row versions. Molex Product deeplink