Card Edge Connectors
Card Edge Connectors are a type of electronic components specifically used for edge connection of printed circuit boards (PCBs), which achieve electrical connection through metal contacts and gold fingers on the edge of the PCB. With its modular design and high reliability, Card Edge Connectors are widely used in computer, communication, medical, and industrial equipment fields, and are key components in PCB interconnection scenarios.
1. What are Card Edge Connectors?
1) Composition
It consists of an insulating base and a metal insert. The insert is usually made of narrow and long metal strips and plated to improve conductivity and corrosion resistance.
The edge of the PCB needs to be specially designed to fit the insert, and the insert maintains stable contact with the socket through elastic force.
2) Working Principle
Insertion Alignment: The conductive traces on the edge of the PCB are precisely aligned with the connector contacts.
Contact Retention: The metal contacts form a reliable electrical connection and fix the PCB by a lock or clip.
Signal Transmission: It supports electrical signal and power transmission and is suitable for high-speed data transmission scenarios (such as 64 Gbps PAM4).
2. What are the Main Types of Card Edge Connectors?
1) Classification by Function
PCI Card Edge Connector: used to connect computer expansion cards (such as graphics cards and network cards) to the motherboard.
High-power Connector: supports a current range of 5.2A to 46A, suitable for redundant power modules and industrial equipment (such as TE Connectivity products).
High-speed Connector: 0.60 mm pitch design to meet the high-speed signal requirements of data centers and communication equipment.
2) Classification by Application Scenario
Consumer Electronics: SIM card connector, mobile phone battery interface.
Industrial and Medical: supports stable connection in high vibration and harsh environments (such as medical instruments and remote radio units).
Embedded System: interconnection of internal circuit boards of industrial automation and control equipment.
3. What are the Key Parameters of Card Edge Connectors?
Electrical Performance: current capacity (such as 3400W rated power), contact resistance (0.7-10 milliohms).
Mechanical Design: plug spacing (0.5-2.00 mm), arrangement (vertical/right angle/edge installation).
Environmental Adaptability: Corrosion-resistant coating and locking mechanism ensure contact reliability after multiple plugging and unplugging.
4. Industry Standards and Certifications of Card Edge Connectors
Some models are UL and TUV certified and comply with CRPS (common redundant power supply) interface specifications.
Standard products cover 10 to 300 contact configurations and support different PCB layer and thickness requirements.