Flat flex cables (FFC) and ribbon jumper cables (RJC) are two types of electrical wiring cables commonly used in the electronics industry. FFC and RJC have the same rectangular cross section, but they are made of different materials and differently configured. FFC are made of polyester or polyethylene and have a flat conductor. RJC are typically made of insulated copper wire in a circular design. Because of their design and ease of use, they are popular among electronics professionals.
FFC and RJC are used to connect printed circuit boards (PCB) to other devices, such as transistors, capacitors, resistors, and integrated circuits. They provide an easy way to create a connection between two points without the need to solder. FFC and RJC can also be used to connect two PCBs together, a process known as “daisy-chaining”. They are most commonly used in embedded systems, such as those used in consumer electronic products, as they allow for the compact layout of components on a PCB.
Flexible flat cable works through the communication between the layers of the cables themselves, without the need for solder. The cables are made of multiple layers of flat, flexible material with wires running between them. These wires are usually made of copper or tinned copper, and they are coated with a protective material in order to protect them from oxidation and corrosion. The use of different types of micro-layers, such as film, epoxy, polyimide, and polyester, enhances the flexibility of the cable.
When the cable is inserted into a socket, the buffer of the socket contacts the layers of the cable, creating an electrical connection. As the power or voltage is applied to the cable, an electric field is created. This electric field creates a charge that causes the layers of the cables to move against each other, creating contact and thus transferring power from one part of the cable to the other.
Ribbon jumper cables work similarly to FFC in that they are also flat and flexible, but they consist of an insulated wire in a circular design. This design allows for multiple wires to be bundled together, making it easier to connect and disconnect between multiple components. The circular design allows the wire to move easily for greater flexibility.
Ribbon jumper cables use an adhesive glue to connect the wire to the plugs on either side. This adhesive glue can be either heat-activated or cold-pressed, which allows for a tight bond between the wire and the plug. The contact between the wire and the plug creates an electrical connection, which allows for the data or power to be transferred to the desired destination.
In summary, FFC and RJC are two types of cables commonly used in the electronics industry to create connections between two points without the need for soldering. They provide a simple and reliable way to connect components in embedded systems and can be used in high-temperature, high-vibration, or corrosive environments. FFC are made of polyester or polyethylene and have a flat conductor, while RJC are typically made of insulated copper wire. Both types use an electric field between the materials of the cable and the socket to transfer power or data.