Connectors on the Move

various devices and components within the system. The following are some of the most common connector types used in automotive infotainment systems and their benefits and drawbacks: This type of connectors is used to connect wires to a printed circuit board (PCB) within an automotive infotainment system. Wire-to-board connectors are widely used because they are easy to install and can provide a secure and reliable connection. Many manufacturers require connector position assurance (CPA), which means a secondary lock or test pin must be added to assure reliable connection during assembly. Wire-to-board connectors: Benefits: Location of PCB and components is flexible Drawbacks: Higher cost due to wire harness Board-to-board connectors are used to connect two printed circuit boards within an automotive infotainment system. These connectors often feature high density signals, power pins for high current, and high data rate capability. Board-to-board connectors: Benefits: Consolidate connections to a single connector, low cost due to lack of wire harness Drawbacks: PCBs must be close to each other Waterproof interface connectors: Used in automotive infotainment systems for applications that require a waterproof and dustproof connection, these connectors are available in various sizes and pin counts. Benefits: Waterproof and dustproof, high mating cycle, can be roughly handled Drawbacks: Higher cost due to material and construction

FFC/FPC connectors: These specialized connectors are used to connect flat flexible cables (FFC) or flexible printed circuits (FPC) within an automotive infotainment system. These connectors are commonly used in applications where space is limited, such as within a dashboard display. FFC/ FPC connectors are available in various sizes and can provide a secure and reliable connection. Benefits: Small size, lowest cost Drawbacks: Not meant for rough handling, can be less durable than wire-to-board AUTOMOTIVE INFOTAINMENT CONNECTOR SOLUTIONS Floating Contact System In the past, wire-to-board connectors were primarily used in automotive infotainment applications. However, this larger type of connector takes up real estate and can pose difficulties during the integration and assembly process. New space-saving board-to-board connectors feature a floating contact system that simplifies assembly and reduces labor costs. The newer floating board-to-board connectors, like the KP27F series, combine high data rate capabilities, EMI shielding, and a small footprint with a 0.5 mm pitch. Offering high temperature resistance up to 125 °C, new connectors with a floating contact design provide superior vibration resistance for more reliable operation.

Hirose KP27F Series floating board-to-board connector is commonly used in automotive ADAS devices like cameras, radar, and sensor systems

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