Connectors for space-limited automotive applications

With smaller terminals to fit more low-current electrical circuits in interior, unsealed transportation-vehicle environments, the 050 interface provides a 50% space saving over traditional USCAR 0.64mm connectors. By allowing wire-harness customers to crimp and process smaller wire gauges versus traditional 0.64mm terminal systems, they provide overall harness weight savings. An independent secondary lock is built into the housing, reducing the number of components, while PCB headers are released in both vertical or right angle orientations. This allows the Mini50 connection system to provide wire-routing and module design flexibility.

The connectors are manufactured with a high-temperature thermoplastic housing that can withstand infrared and wave lead-free solder processing at a maximum temperature of +260ºC. With current configurations in single-row, 4- and 8-circuit versions and a dual-row, 12-circuit version, the Mini50 connectors are available in through-hole and SMT versions. The Molex Mini50 4/8/12 circuit interface was chosen by USCAR as the standard 050 interface.

“The tremendous growth in automotive infotainment and safety options is the catalyst for vehicle manufacturers demanding smaller interconnects from suppliers. Design engineers need to fit more electronics in the same space. The Mini50 unsealed wire-to-board system allows device manufacturers to package circuits in tighter spaces by utilising smaller pin and terminal sizes, while reducing costs and maintaining performance, safety and reliability,” comments Jeremy Stout, Product Manager, Molex.