Hirose Electric — FH55 Series Connectors

The new Hirose Electric FH55 series of flexible printed circuit (FPC) connectors can handle high-speed data transmission at signaling rates of higher than 5 Gbits/s, making them suitable for use in USB 3.0, PCI Express Gen 2, Serial ATA Gen 3 and HDMI 1.4a interfaces. 

The contacts offer minimal impedance, helping to ensure high data rates. The signal contact has a flat structure instead of the conventional forked shape. This provides a straight signal path and prevents signal reflections. The ground contacts are also placed between the differential pair signal contacts to reduce crosstalk. 

Insertion of the FPC into the actuator is made easier with a wide opening of 115°. Correct locking is confirmed by a tactile click. Side catches in the internal structure of the connector guide a tabbed FPC into the correct position. The catches also increase the retention force to give a stable and reliable connection. 

The contacts of the FH55 have a nickel barrier to prevent solder wicking, and a flux path and solder pot on the bottom face of the connector absorb excess flux and solder.