Circuits Assembly Online Magazine - Tyco Offers Compression Coax Board-to-Board RF Connectors

HARRISBURG, PA -- Tyco Electronics has introduced a low profile, single connector, microminiature RF interconnect to meet the demand for direct board-to-board connections.

Traditionally, board-to-board RF connections have been achieved with either two cable connectors or two board connectors with a third, spacer or bullet, between. Compression Coax Board-to-Board Blindmate product eliminates the need for multiple connectors – and their added cost – by offering a single connector assembly with spring-loaded contact. One side is soldered on the base circuit board surface and the other side mates directly on the opposite target board using applied spring pressure. One piece design offers an easy connection with large radial and axial misalignment, and eliminates the risk of breaking soldered connections when mating or un-mating.

Available in three different lengths for board spacing of 6.65, 10 and 14 mm, and is supplied in trays for easy pick-and-place compatibility. Has an operating temperature range of –40 to +125°C, impedance of 50 Ohms and can operate effectively at frequencies up to 6 GHz. Return loss is specified as a minimum –20 dB at frequencies up to 2.1 GHz. Tolerance against axial misalignments from the nominal board stacking height is ±1.0 mm for the 10 and 14 mm versions, and ±0.3 mm for the 6.65 mm version. Tolerance against radial misalignment is ±0.8 mm from centerline, in any direction, for all three versions. Target pads can be tin plated, or a gold-plated disc can be applied to the mating PCB.

Tyco Electronics, tycoelectronics.com