Miniature connectors from Omnetics target Autosport

Based on a pitch of 0.025in (0.635mm), Omnetics’ Bi-lobe connectors use the company’s proven Nano Flex Pin contact ensuring contact is maintained even under the most extreme conditions of shock and vibration that can be experienced in autosport applications. Designers of racing cars often favor circular connectors for ease and speed of mating, and Omnetics also now offers a circular Nano connector family, claimed to be the world’s smallest to feature high reliability pins and sockets. Six, 11, 16 and 28 position devices are available: the smallest devices have a diameter of just 0.122in (3.1mm), while 28 way styles measure 0.217in (5.5mm). The high reliability contacts are gold-plated to Mil/Aero/Space standards, and carry a 1A current rating and have a mating cycle durability of 2000 cycles. Maximum contact resistance is 25mΩ and the connectors withstand 350VAC RMS dielectric.

New autosport electronics systems, such as KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) which act as a sort of electrical turbo charge and which may be introduced into Formula 1 cars next season, will benefit from Omnetics’ product innovation. Comments Gary Evans, European Sales Manager: “Our products have been proved in the military and aerospace sectors where size, weight and performance under the harshest operating conditions are basic requirements. Now the same basic connectors have been modified and are becoming the preferred choice for autosport teams around the world who also demand ultimate performance.”