Page 29 - ConnectorSupplier.com - How-to-Specify Handbook

Application-Speci c Design Considerations
Beyond the basic mechanical considerations, there are several additional, often application-speci c, factors that affect connector selection. For instance:
• Does the insulator need to be removable for increased air ow or solder joint visibility? • Is there a mated height restriction?
• Is the application RoHS compliant? If so, what is the preferred plating spec?
De ning application-speci c parameters like these before building a part number helps users know which option to select when presented with several choices. For example, knowing the preferred tin/lead termination plating substitute saves time when multiple RoHS-compliant plating options, such as gold (Au) and matte tin (Sn), are available.
Ready to Build
Starting within the appropriate build category ensures that users only have to select options that are applicable to the connector style they want. For example, in Figure 1 there are only ve parameters required to build a part number for a 2.54mm-pitch, through-hole board-to-board connector, since the category itself already de nes both the pitch and the board interface.
Additional information, such as links to datasheets and visual selection guides, is also often provided in selector menus and can help users select attributes such as the insulator or body style and the type of terminal required. In some product con gurators, such as the one shown in Figure 1, each character of the part number appears on the screen as selections are made. In others, results are presented as a table of matching part numbers.
Occasionally, product con gurators fail to make an exact match online. Even then, however, these tools help provide users with a narrowed list of con guration options that makes for a much more effective call to the factory. According to Curt Wilmot, product engineer at Advanced Interconnections Corp., “Having a part number as a starting point de nitely saves time by answering all of the basic t and form requirements for the connector, letting us focus on any application-speci c or unique, functional requirements. When customers rst build a part number online, it often means that they have already downloaded the product CAD drawing and are ready with speci c questions that will help expedite their nal product selection.”
Combining the power of online product con guration tools with more traditional, phone-call-to-factory product support helps to simplify and streamline the process of specifying connectors.
Visit Advanced Interconnections Corp. online.
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