FCI Expands Versatility of Airmax VS® System with New Co-Planar Connector

FCI further enhances the design flexibility of its AirMax VS® system with the introduction of a new co-planar version of the popular connector family. This extension of the innovative product line allows for the easy insertion of add-in boards for system upgrades, memory expansion and test. Created in response to customer demands, these shieldless connectors use the same AirMax technology—air as the dielectric and Insert Molded Leadframe Assemblies (IMLA) to connect boards in the same plane.

"The success of the AirMax line has been due to the flexibility system designers derive in using shieldless connectors," said John Burkett, product manager for FCI. "When customers began requesting an edge-of-board solution, we realized the co-planar connector was a natural evolution for AirMax. Because it allows customers to add capabilities as their systems grow, the co-planar provides true modularity and adaptability."

All connectors in the AirMax VS system use air as the dielectric between adjacent conductors. This solution facilitates high signal density while exhibiting the industry's lowest insertion loss and lowest crosstalk, all without the use of costly and space-consuming metal shields.

At the heart of the unique design is AirMax VS's Insert Molded Leadframe Assembly (IMLA) that enables the same connector to be used for Differential Pair signals, Single Ended signals or power. It combines EMI optimization with the use of air as a dielectric so designers can freely mix Differential Pair, Single Ended signals and power in one connector.

The AirMax VS is also the only high speed backplane connector that allows for any allocation of signals within one connector, so customers' systems can grow from 2.5Gb/s to 25Gb/s without requiring redesign of the basic platform.

AirMax VS offers the highest signal density available, accommodating 63 differential pairs or 95 single ended lines per inch for a 25mm card slot.

The AirMax VS two-piece header-receptacle connector system is available in 3mm and 2mm column spacing, in a 150-position (5-pair) configuration for 1.0"/25mm slot pitch applications and a 120-position (4-pair) AirMax VS connector for 0.8"/20mm slot pitch applications. A complete system of power modules (80 Amp current capacity), alignment pins and other accessories is also available.

Volume pricing for the AirMax VS co-planar connector is $.10 per mated line. Samples are available for immediate delivery, with production lead-times from stock to 8 weeks. Co-planar guides are also available.

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