Z-Axis connector elements are compression style connectors that are pressed between two boards in order to achieve electrical contact. In most applications, a retaining slot positions the element. Ribs in the slot allow for the expansion of the silicon during the compression. The molding of slots directly into the end unit housing can afford advantages in cost and ease of assembly. Surface to surface gasket-like contact is made which permits the mating of differing pad metallurgies such as gold flash, carbon ink, silver ink or indium-tin oxide (ITO).
PCB Connectors, Mezzanine & Parallel Board Connectors
In this picture a main board is shown built with contact pads and accurately location holes to accept four possible modules. These modules can be positioned at varying heights. The connector costs are not incurred until the module is actually needed and attached.
Board to Board Connectors advantages:
Additional advantages of using high-density, solderless connectors, one-piece Z-Axis connectors for board-to-board connections include:
- Insulation from shock and vibration.
- Their strength compared with the fragility of existing fine pitch connectors.
- Their ability to be easily replaced.
- The low cost of both tooling and unit price where customized parts are needed.
- Where vertical or horizontal space is at a premium.
- Where there is a demand for a right-angle connection in limited physical space.
- Where the alignment of multiple high-density connectors will prove problematic during assembly.
- Where solder bridging of high-density connectors is a problem.
Board to Board Connection types:
Read more: Board to Board Connectors