Straddle-mount card edge connectors aid in PCI Express validation

FCI's new straddle-mount card edge connectors support the implementation of the high-speed, serial PCI Express architecture in desktop PCs and servers.

The primary application is expected to be for test cards used in the validation of PCI Express platforms and add-in cards. However, the connectors can also be used to facilitate connections between coplanar circuit boards, said the company.

The connector series fully supports PCI Express signal and power requirements, and auxiliary signals at the interface between the system board and add-in card. The series offers 1, 4, 8 or 16 high-speed serial PCI Express lanes to match different bandwidth requirements. Each serial lane is comprised of differential transmit and receive signal pairs that support a 2.5Gbps data rate in each direction.

Each connector's card slot is designed to accept a 1.58mm thick add-in card. A molded polarization key on the connector and corresponding notch on the add-in card prevent improper insertion. The edge contacts are spaced on 1mm pitch within each row at the mating interface. Sequential mating for hot-plug capability is accomplished by staggering the appropriate edge fingers by 1mm on the add-in card.

How it works
At the rear of the connector, the contacts are formed into two rows of soldertails that straddle the edge of a 1.58mm thick PC-board. The rows of the soldertails are angled outward at the tips to provide lead-in to allow the soldertails to easily slip over the edge of the PC-board without stubbing. A molded post engages with a slot on the edge of the host PC-board to ensure proper alignment of connector leads to solder pads during placement. Mounting ears on the connector help protect against soldertail damage during handling prior to soldering and also provide the option for screw-attachment to the host PC-board. FCI also offers connector versions that are compatible with lead-free soldering processes.

Typical pricing for the straddle-mount card edge connectors (part number series 10025026) ranges from $1.74 to $3.54 each in quantities of 1,000, depending on configuration. Delivery for production quantities is from stock to five weeks.

- Gina Roos
eeProductCenter