FCI Adds Power Connectors to AirMax VS® High-Speed Backplane Connector Line

ETTERS, PA. (May 27, 2005) - FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, has expanded the AirMax VS® backplane connector system to include power connectors to address customer requirements for increased current-carrying capacity between the backplane and daughtercards in chassis systems. The right-angle daughtercard connectors are available with either 1x2 or 2x2 contact configurations per 12mm module. Each module has a total current-carrying capacity of up to 80 amps and a voltage rating of 150V. The corresponding backplane connector features protected contact openings and is UL1950 (Finger Probe) compliant.

These compact and cost-efficient power modules address customers' evolution to faster and more powerful processors on their add-in cards, which has created a need to carry higher current to those cards. AirMax VS power connectors can be used to accomplish that goal in data equipment, such as servers and storage systems, communications equipment, such as switches and routers, as well as for applications in medical electronics and instrumentation.

"The power modules are designed for use with all AirMax VS signal connectors," said John Burkett, FCI product manager. "But because the new power connectors conform to the Hard Metric equipment practice, they can also be used with FCI's Millipacs? 2mm Hard Metric backplane connector system."

AirMax VS power connectors are designed so contacts are flat except for minimal forming at the plug connector's mating interfaces, which enables the use of high conductivity base metal. Airflow passages in the insulating connector bodies allow air to flow through the fully mated connectors and over a large percentage of the contact's surfaces, so heat escapes more easily. These design features contribute to the modules' higher current-carrying capacity.

The AirMax VS power modules employ an "eye of the needle" (EON) compliant tail for press-fit PCB termination. Two available mating lengths for power module contacts provide capability for sequential mating of power and signal contacts.

Typical prices start at $6 per connector set. Samples are available, with production lead times from stock to seven weeks.

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