FCI Card-edge Connectors Enable New PCI Express® ExpressModule™ Form Factor

Etters, PA. (July 6, 2006) — FCI has developed card-edge connectors designed to accept PCI Express® ExpressModuleTM modular I/O adapters used in rack servers. There are two connector size and interface options. Part series 10055293 describes the 98-position connectors, which support up to an x8 PCI Express (PCIe™) connection. Part series 10055295 defines the larger, 140-position connectors that also provide an internal storage interface for up to four x1 ports of SATA/SAS and sideband signals in addition to the x8 PCIe link.

ExpressModule adapters are designed for closed chassis insertion and removal, while the chassis is under power, without damage to the server chassis or module. This capability, in combination with the enclosed module design, is expected to significantly reduce IT service and support costs since the installation or replacement of modules will not require skilled personnel.

“The ExpressModule application demanded connectors that can accommodate potential misalignment of the connector openings and module card edge during module insertion,” said David Sideck, FCI Regional Market Manager. “To address this critical need, the designs include angled lead-in ramps surrounding the connector openings that can compensate for up to 1.5mm misalignment during blind-mating.”

The card-edge connectors utilize an “eye-of-needle”-compliant section for termination to a backplane. The press-fit connectors are targeted for use on 2.36mm (0.093") to 4.19mm (0.165") thick PCBs. By using press-fit connectors, manufacturers can avoid soldering problems and improve manufacturing yields when implementing I/O slots on thick backplanes. RoHS-compliant connector versions are available.

Typical pricing ranges from $0.01 to $0.02 per contact for 2,000-piece order quantities, depending on connector configuration. Samples are available for delivery, with production lead times from stock to 8 weeks.

PCI Express® and ExpressModule™ are trademarks of PCI-SIG.

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