SPIDER Automation | 0.5mm Pitch 20-Pin FPC/FFC SMT Drawer-Lock Connector | Compact Flexible Cable Interface
The SPIDER Automation 0.5mm Pitch 20-Pin FPC/FFC SMT Drawer-Lock Connector is a surface-mount PCB interconnection component designed to connect 20-conductor flexible flat cables (FFC) and flexible printed circuits (FPC) to electronic circuit boards. Its 20 contact positions arranged at 0.5mm pitch provide a compact route for multiple electrical signals through a single flexible cable assembly. This configuration is useful in display interfaces and electronic modules where several signal connections must be accommodated within limited PCB space.
The connector uses a lift-up drawer-style actuator that opens to allow the flexible cable to be inserted and closes to retain it against the internal contacts. This accessible cable-loading arrangement supports controlled assembly and simplifies disconnection when servicing or replacing compatible flex cables. The connector features phosphor bronze contacts, a Nylon 46 UL94-V0 insulating housing and an approximate body size of 15 × 2 × 5mm. Its stated electrical ratings are 50V and 0.5A, with an operating temperature range of −25°C to +85°C.
Product Overview & Functional Design
A 20-pin FPC/FFC connector provides an organised electrical interface between a flexible cable assembly and a printed circuit board. Each of its 20 contact positions establishes a connection with the corresponding cable conductor, allowing multiple signals to be routed through one compact interconnection point. This arrangement is especially useful in electronic assemblies where a display, interface module or secondary circuit section must communicate with a main PCB without using a bundle of individual wires.
The drawer-style actuator controls access to the connector’s cable-contact area. When lifted, it allows the flex cable to be positioned within the connector; when closed, it retains the cable in its operating position. This design makes the cable interface accessible during assembly and maintenance while keeping the termination close to the PCB surface. Accurate cable positioning is essential to ensure that all 20 conductors align with their corresponding contacts.
Technical Features & Construction
- 20-Position Contact Arrangement: Supports a 20-conductor flexible-cable interface for multi-signal connections between a PCB and a compatible electronic module.
- 0.5mm Contact Pitch: Fine terminal spacing enables compact interconnection layouts and efficient use of PCB area.
- Drawer-Style Cable Actuator: The lift-up actuator provides access for cable insertion and retains the cable when returned to its closed position.
- Surface-Mount PCB Termination: SMT construction enables direct PCB mounting and supports compact electronic assembly designs.
- Phosphor Bronze Contacts: Conductive contact elements provide the electrical interface between the flexible cable and board-mounted connector.
- Nylon 46 Insulation: The insulating housing provides the structural body and electrical separation around the contact arrangement.
- UL94-V0 Material Classification: The Nylon 46 insulating material carries a UL94-V0 flammability classification.
- Metal and Plastic Construction: Combines conductive metal contacts with an insulating plastic housing and actuator structure.
- Compact Body Profile: The approximately 15 × 2 × 5mm dimensions support installation in space-constrained electronic assemblies.
Electrical Configuration & Interface
The connector provides 20 electrical contact positions at a 0.5mm pitch, with a stated 50V voltage rating and 0.5A operating current. These ratings should be considered when selecting the connector for a circuit, together with the current capacity of the individual cable conductors, PCB traces and connected components.
The mating FPC/FFC cable must match the connector’s 20-contact arrangement and 0.5mm pitch. The cable’s overall width, exposed conductive contact length, contact-side orientation and insertion geometry must also correspond to the connector interface. Matching pin count and pitch alone does not guarantee mechanical compatibility.
Mechanical Design & PCB Integration
The surface-mount construction allows the connector to be installed directly on a PCB, creating a compact termination point for flexible-cable assemblies. Its approximately 15mm body length accommodates the 20-contact arrangement, while the approximately 2mm width and 5mm height help engineers evaluate board placement and enclosure clearance.
The actuator requires accessible space for lifting, inserting the cable and closing the connector. PCB layout should therefore account for the connector body, solder-terminal arrangement, cable insertion direction and actuator operating clearance. The PCB land pattern should match the connector’s terminal geometry to support accurate positioning and reliable soldering.
Applications
This 20-position FPC/FFC connector is suitable for compact electronic systems requiring multiple signal connections through a removable flexible-cable interface.
- Display Module Interconnections: Connecting compatible 20-conductor display flex cables to display-controller or interface PCBs.
- LCD Assemblies: Providing a compact PCB termination point for flexible display cables in electronic equipment.
- Embedded Controller Systems: Connecting a controller board to a separate electronic module through a multi-conductor flex cable.
- Automotive Electronic Modules: Internal flexible-cable connections in compatible vehicle electronics, subject to the application’s electrical and environmental requirements.
- Communication Equipment: Flexible-cable interconnections for compact display, interface and electronic subassemblies.
- Medical Electronic Instruments: PCB-to-flex connections in compatible instruments and compact electronic display assemblies.
- Consumer Electronics: Internal signal connections in compact products using flexible printed circuits or flat flexible cables.
- Control and Operator Interfaces: Connecting display and interface sections to associated controller circuitry.
- Electronic Instrumentation: Multi-signal flexible-cable connections in compact measurement and monitoring equipment.
- PCB Repair and Maintenance: Replacement of compatible 20-pin FPC/FFC connectors during board-level servicing.
Package Includes
4 × 0.5mm Pitch 20-Pin FPC/FFC SMT Drawer-Lock Connectors
Product Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Type | FPC/FFC SMT Drawer-Lock Connector |
| Connector Interface | FPC / FFC |
| Number of Pins | 20 |
| Pin Pitch | 0.5mm |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount (SMD/SMT) |
| Actuator Type | Lift-up drawer-style actuator |
| Rated Voltage | 50V |
| Operating Current | 0.5A |
| Contact Material | Phosphor Bronze |
| Insulation Material | Nylon 46 |
| Insulation Flammability Classification | UL94-V0 |
| Body Construction | Metal and plastic |
| Available Colours | Beige, Black |
| Insulation Resistance | 800 MΩ |
| Operating Temperature | −25°C to +85°C |
| Length | 15mm |
| Width | 2mm |
| Height | 5mm |
| Approximate Weight | 1g per connector |
| Package Quantity | 4 pieces |
Connection & Operating Recommendations
- Confirm Cable Dimensions: Verify the cable has 20 conductors at 0.5mm pitch and check its overall width, exposed contact length, contact-side orientation and insertion geometry against the connector.
- Open the Actuator First: Lift the drawer-style actuator carefully before inserting the flexible cable. Avoid forcing the cable into the connector while the actuator is closed.
- Align the Contacts: Position the cable evenly so that all 20 exposed conductors align with the corresponding connector contacts. Incorrect alignment can cause signal errors or electrical shorts.
- Close the Actuator Gently: Return the actuator to its closed position without excessive force and check that the cable is retained evenly.
- Match the PCB Footprint: Use a land pattern that corresponds to the connector’s terminal geometry and verify alignment before soldering.
- Provide Operating Clearance: Allow sufficient space around the actuator for cable insertion, removal and maintenance access when planning the PCB and enclosure.
- Respect Electrical Ratings: Keep the applied voltage within 50V and operating current within 0.5A. Ensure that the cable conductors and PCB traces are also appropriately rated.
- Use ESD Precautions: Follow suitable electrostatic-discharge handling procedures when working with the connector and sensitive PCB assemblies.
- Inspect Before Reconnection: Check the cable contacts, connector housing and actuator for contamination or physical damage before reconnecting during servicing.
