Connector system delivers 50% space savings for car makers

The integration of multiple devices in today’s transportation industry requires harnesses that are lighter, smaller and more cost-effective. The harnesses deliver reliable performance in limited spaces, and are suitable for infotainment, lighting and HVAC system applications.

The tremendous growth in automotive entertainment and safety options means fitting multiple electronic systems into the same space in vehicle interiors. Molex responded by developing Mini50 sealed and unsealed wire-to-board receptacles with smaller pin, terminal and wire sizes to enable device manufacturers to package circuits tightly and reduce PCB footprint for greater design flexibility.

The Unsealed Connector System includes 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 circuit size receptacles and headers in single row and dual row configurations. Features include an independent secondary lock (ISL) terminal retention in a one-piece design for applied cost savings and a connector position assurance latch to prevent accidental un-mating.

Three polarisation options are available which ensures like-to-like mating via three discrete mechanical, visual and coloured polarisations and enables some customisation.

The Connector System has a number of features designed to assist and simplify during assembly: - orientation features moulded into the header provides wire routing and module design flexibility for both vertical and right-angle connectors and retains the header to the PCB during the soldering process; board alignment and retention features simplify header placement on the PCB and retains the header during soldering.

Automotive and commercial vehicle applications for the Molex Mini50 Unsealed Connector System include headliners, radios, cameras, sensors, navigation clusters, switches, lighting and HVAC systems.