Raising the power levels supported by its product portfolio, Harwin introduces the Kona series of multi-contact, high current connectors that are robust enough to cope with harsh operating conditions.
The 8.5mm pitch connectors’ contacts are capable of delivering 60A of current. This means that applications such as battery charging can be addressed without having to split the current across multiple contacts. Key applications targeted include electric vehicle battery monitoring/management, power control systems, robotics drives, servo controls, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and satellites.
The contacts in the Kona series connectors are arranged in a single row, with two-, three- and four- contact versions available. The current carrying capacity is such that very little PCB space is used as less contacts are needed to deliver the current. The mating pair consists of a male vertical through-board connector with board mount fixings, and a female cable connector which will accommodate 8AWG gauge cables.
Harwin’s mate-before-lock mechanism prevents any damage occurring during the locking process ensuring the mating elements are fully aligned first. Shrouding on each contact and a fully polarised construction, means that mis-mating is not a possibility, says Harwin.
Kona connectors have a 250 mating cycle lifespan. The design includes stainless steel thumbscrews, which are fitted to the female connector element, and which mean fixing is simple, with no tools required. A contact indicator is also part of the design, makes certain that the connector elements are correctly oriented.
With a maximum voltage rating of 3kV, and a working temperature ranging from -65 to +150 degrees C, Kona connectors are suitable for deployment in difficult environments. They can handle vibrational forces of 20G for a period of 12 hours. In addition, the six-finger beryllium copper contacts prevent any interruption in connectivity, Harwin says.
Explaining the reason for the introduction of the Kona connector series, Harwin’s Ryan Smart, NPI Product Manager, said: “Customers have approached us in need of even more current per contact. The parameters that the Kona series deliver will open up new potential markets for us, and Kona is our highest performing connector to date.”
