Miniature heavy-duty connectors for compact factory automation applications

17 May 2006 Interconnection IoT & Automation

A line of Mini-HMC heavy-duty connectors from Molex provides up to a 65% space savings for applications such as small robots, industrial controls, factory automation, and production and medical equipment. The Mini-HMC system is the first rectangular I/O connector system to offer a similar form and function as traditional heavy duty hard-shell connectors, but in a much smaller size, says Molex.

Molex adapted and downsized some of the unique features of its existing line of HMC (heavy duty modular) robotics connectors into the Mini-HMC system. A crescent-shaped metal hood with single action lock provides space savings and easy handling, versus double bale-lock types. The 'one-touch' spring lock also enables the lever to be smoothly engaged and locked firmly into place.

The Mini-HMC system carries 7 A, which makes it suitable for both signal and power applications. The 3,00 mm modular housings can be easily inserted and removed from the back-side of the die-cast panel-mount shell without any tools. This provides easier assembly and field-servicing compared to circular versions. Housings can also be placed on the cable hood or panel-mount sides for added design flexibility.

Housings come in modular units of 10 circuits, with a maximum of 40 circuits per side. The Mini-HMC system uses crimp termination, which provides higher reliability and assembly productivity than competitive hand-solder versions. Terminals are gold-plated and available in 18-28 wire gauges.

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