10013057-171200ELF

FFC, FPC (Flat Flexible) Connectors

FFCs (Flat Flexible Connectors) and FPCs (Flexible Printed Circuits) are connectors used to join two parts of a Printed Circuit Board (PCB). The connectors offer a way of making strong mechanical and electrical connections between components on the printed circuit board, without the need for soldering. FFCs and FPCs are also known as “mechanical interconnects” or “flexible jumpers”.

Types

FFCs come in two types: ribbon style and wrap style. The ribbon style FFCs consist of two rows of contacts on each side, while the wrap style FFCs have two rows of contacts only on one side. Both types of FFCs are available in a wide range of sizes, and can support up to 5.0A of current.

10013057-171200ELF Applications

FFCs are commonly used in applications where speed and reliability are of paramount importance. They are used in a variety of applications including computer and telecommunication equipment, robotics, industrial machinery, and embedded systems. FPCs are particularly suitable in applications where space is at a premium, as they are much thinner than traditional FFCs.

Working Principle

FFCs are made from two flat sheets of plastic. Each sheet has conductors printed on it. A piece of metal foil is laminated between the two sheets. The two sheets are then cut into smaller pieces, and the metal foil is cut along the edges of the pieces. The resulting pieces are then punched with holes along the middle, so they can be mated to a board containing metal connectors. Finally, the pieces are assembled and fitted onto the board.

The FPC is similar to an FFC, but with the addition of an exposed metal pad. The pad is used mainly to improve the electrical connection between the FPC and the board. FPCs use a spray-on adhesive to bond the two sheets together. The FPC is then cut into pieces and the metal pad is attached to the individual pieces. The pieces are then punched and assembled onto the board.

Advantages

FFCs and FPCs offer several advantages over traditional connectors. FFCs are smaller in size than traditional FFCs, making them suitable for applications where space is at a premium. The lack of solder joints reduces manufacturing time and improves product reliability. FPCs have an exposed pad which allows for improved contact between the FPC and the board, resulting in better signal integrity and higher data transmission speeds.

Disadvantages

The main disadvantage of FFCs and FPCs is their cost. FFCs and FPCs can be more expensive than traditional connectors, although this cost is generally offset by the improved performance and reliability. Additionally, FFCs and FPCs are more vulnerable to shock and vibration than traditional connectors, so they must be handled with care.

Conclusion

FFCs and FPCs are connectors used to join two parts of a Printed Circuit Board (PCB). They are commonly used in applications where speed and reliability are of paramount importance. FFCs and FPCs offer several advantages over traditional connectors, including smaller size, reduced manufacturing time, and improved signal integrity. The main disadvantage of FFCs and FPCs is their cost, although this is generally offset by the improved performance and reliability.