FPC Connectors

A Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC) connector — also known as a flex Printed Circuit Board (PCB) connector — is a crucial component in the world of flexible electronics, designed for the secure assembly of flexible printed circuits. It works by creating a reliable connection between a flexible circuit or cable and a rigid circuit board.

This innovative technology is indispensable for modern, compact electronic devices. It allows for the mounting of electronic devices on flexible plastic substrates, making it ideal for applications where space is limited or where a device needs to bend or flex, such as in smartphones and medical sensors.

What Are the Differences Between FPC and FFC Connectors?

FPC connectors are designed for flexible printed circuits, which are made by etching copper foil to create single-sided, double-sided or multi-layer circuit boards. This allows for intricate and high-density designs. In contrast, Flexible Flat Cable (FFC) connectors are designed for FFCs, which are simpler circuits made by sandwiching flat copper foils between layers of insulating film. As a result, FFCs are typically thicker and less complex than FPCs.

How Do FPC Connectors Work?

The most common mechanism for FPC connectors is a clamping or Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) system. A hinged lid or sliding actuator secures the flexible circuit firmly in place, ensuring continuous contact between the FPC’s conductive pads and the connector’s terminals. This is critical for maintaining signal integrity and preventing damage to the delicate flexible circuit during assembly.

FPC Connector Types

FPC connectors come in a wide range of designs and formats, with key differences in the following dictating their ideal use:

• Actuation Mechanism: The actuation mechanism determines how the connector secures a flexible circuit. Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) mechanisms, such as front or back flip locks, are the most common, ensuring a secure connection with no stress on the FPC.
• Contact Type: The contact type specifies which side of the FPC makes electrical contact. Options include top, bottom or dual-contact designs, which offer flexibility in board layout and cable orientation.
• Pitch: The pitch refers to the distance between the centre of adjacent contacts, with common sizes ranging from 0.5mm to 1.25mm. Smaller pitches enable high-density connections, and their precise measurements are often verified using a vernier caliper, which is crucial for miniaturised devices.
• Mounting Type: FPC connectors can be mounted either horizontally (right-angle) or vertically on a PCB, and this choice affects both board space and cable routing, providing flexibility for specific design constraints.

How to Install FPC Connectors

The proper installation of your FPC connectors are crucial to ensure reliable and secure electrical connections. Here’s how to get started:

• Step 1: Preparation and Alignment — Before installation, ensure the flexible printed circuit is clean and free of damage. Then, align the circuit’s conductive pads with the connector slot, making sure the actuator is in the open position.
• Step 2: Circuit Insertion — Gently insert the flexible circuit straight into the connector slot, ensuring the cable is fully seated without tilting. For ZIF mechanisms, this should require almost no force.
• Step 3: Securing the Connection — Once the flexible printed circuit is fully inserted, carefully close the actuator until it is fully locked. This clamping action applies pressure, securing the circuit and establishing a continuous electrical connection.
• Step 4: Final Verification — After securing, gently pull on the flexible circuit to verify it is not loose. This simple check is critical for confirming that the connector is properly installed and that it will maintain signal integrity.

Applications of FPC Connectors

FPC connectors are indispensable for modern, compact electronic devices across a broad range of applications, such as:

• Consumer Electronics: In devices like mobile phones, laptops and digital cameras, FPC ribbon cable connectors provide high-density, flexible connections, vital for linking peripherals and displays to a central board.
• Wearables and Medical Devices: FPC connectors enable flexible board-to-board connections and complex wiring in compact spaces. This is essential for miniaturisation and ensuring reliable operation in devices that are worn, such as smart watches and medical sensors.
• Automotive Infotainment: Found in car dashboards and digital displays, FPC connectors handle high-density data for infotainment systems. They are designed to withstand vibration and temperature fluctuations, ensuring consistent performance.
• Drones and Robotics: In drones and robotics, FPC connectors enable lightweight, high-density connections for cameras and sensors. Their flexible nature is essential for managing complex wiring in the tight spaces required by these compact systems.

How to Choose the Right FPC Connectors

Selecting the right FPC connector is crucial for ensuring a reliable connection in your electronic assembly. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Pitch: The pitch is a primary factor in high-density designs. Smaller pitches enable more connections in a compact space, while larger pitches are used for applications that require higher voltage and current ratings.
• Actuation Mechanism: The mechanism by which a connector secures a flexible circuit is a critical consideration. ZIF connectors, for example, use a hinged lid or a sliding actuator to clamp the circuit in place, preventing damage during installation.
• Contact Type: The contact type must match the orientation of the flexible printed circuit. Choose between top, bottom, or dual-contact designs, based on the layout of your circuit board.
• Mounting Style: Connectors are mounted either horizontally or vertically on a PCB. The choice of mounting style affects the board space and cable routing, providing flexibility for specific design constraints.
• Function: The function of the FPC connector dictates its design. This includes common connections like FPC-to-board, where a flexible circuit links a rigid PCB, or board-to-display, where a single connector powers a screen.

Shop FPC Connectors Online from RS Australia

RS Australia is your trusted manufacturer and distributor of high-quality FPC connectors. Our catalogue showcases a wide selection of ZIF and non-ZIF FPC connectors — as well as related products such as wire strippers and cable glands — from leading manufacturers like Hirose and Molex. All our products undergo rigorous testing, complying with international standards and are backed by our commitment to assured quality.

For the ultimate convenience, RS Australia also provides the rapid, nationwide doorstep delivery of all your orders. For more details regarding our dispatch timelines, applicable charges and shipping schedules, please visit our dedicated Delivery Information page today.