Latest publications

  • FCI's New SAS Plug Connectors  Boost I/O Performance in SSD 6 Gb/s Apps - 20/07/2010
    FCI, a leading manufacturer of connectors and interconnect systems, has expanded its range of SAS connectors for its storage business line with the development of 29-position SAS connectors for the Solid State Drive (SSD) industry. The new connectors are a higher-performance I/O option for SSD applications that require 6 Gb/s data speed. "The newest SAS connectors for SSD were a natural expansion of our proven SAS line and were developed in response to our many customers who were adopting SSD in their enterprise/server applications due to its high performance, high reliability, and low energy consumption," said FCI''s Regional Business Development Manager Eric Tng. FCI''s SAS product range for SSD complies with the SAS 2.1 specification in terms of mating interface, performance and signal integrity (SI). SI performance is verified to reach 6 Gb/s data speed, but FCI has also supported one SSD customer in connector development to achieve an even higher data speed requirement. The SAS connectors are designed to support hot-plugging and blind-mating of SSDS, with molded guide posts providing angled lead-in to compensate for misalignment. The SAS connectors for SSD are available in various mating heights and offer two different mounting methods - SMT retainers or forklock design. SMT mounting enables process automation during board population, which is further simplified with the orientation molded posts. The mating interface orientation is per current orientation used in SSD. The SAS connectors can also be utilized for interposer / adapter applications in enterprise servers.
    To know more about
    > SAS Connectors

  • FCI Introduces Highly Reliable Micro USB for Multimedia Devices - 21/06/2010
    FCI''s Micro USB is ideal for applications with space constraints.  Approximately 60% smaller than the average mini-USB connector, the Micro USB provides high reliability while requiring little space, providing engineers a solution for the sleek, small designs of tomorrow. "The Micro USB marketplace is expected to grow significantly over the next few years, and we expect this will also increase interest in standard USB (including USB Plus Power) and Mini-USB offerings, which is why FCI already offers a wide range of USB-compliant connectors for a wide range of applications," said Jennifer Zhang, global product manager, FCI. The Micro USB Connector is RoHS-compatible and ensures direct data transmission among mobile devices without host and complies to USB 1.1 and 2.0 standards.  Highly durable, the Micro USB has a passive latch mechanism preventing unintentional cable release and has a life span of 10,000 cycles. The connector''s receptacles and plugs are available in a wide variety of mounting and termination configurations enabling it to be used in a wide array of devices. FCI offers Micro USB B and A/B type receptacles (Standard; Mid-Mount and Reverse) as well as a B-type plug.
    To know more about
    > Micro USB

  • FCI Honors Digi-Key for  Performance Excellence - 17/05/2010
    FCI, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector and cable assembly solutions to the data, communications, consumer, industrial and medical markets, has honored Digi-Key (www.digikey.com) for its high level of service and performance with the FCI Electronic Division with its Performance Excellence Award. Digi-Key has continued to exceed expectations and the market with FCI ELX Division since it was added to the distribution network, and FCI recognized the distributor''s outstanding performance by presenting the award at EDS 2010. Digi-Key has helped the FCI ELX Division continue to grow its customer base, increase its print position and grow its sales faster than the overall market. Digi-Key has also helped the FCI ELX Division be more visible to the electronics design engineer community through its multi-faceted approach both in print and electronic formats. "Digi-Key is often recognized by industry surveys as one of the leaders in the electronics distribution marketplace and we are enjoying the benefits of being partnered with them to reach the electronic design engineers. They have helped us to provide our customers with more complete and innovative solutions to meet their needs today and in the future," said Pete Curwen, corporate vice president and general manager of the FCI Electronics Division. "Digi-Key is pleased to accept this award for excellent distributor performance from FCI," said Mark Larson, Digi-Key''s president and COO. "Our goal is to provide excellent service both for our customers and authorized supplier partners. We take pride in achieving that goal and in the recognition of that achievement by our world-leading supplier partners, like FCI, that make it possible for Digi-Key to continue providing the widest breadth of top-quality products in stock for customers around the world."

  • FCI Offers Flexible Circuit Assemblies to Increase Design Flexibility - 27/04/2010
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, has introduced the Flexible ConnectionsSM series. This new FCI product family provides expert integration of flexible circuitry and PCB connectors to preserve system performance with mechanical and signal integrity. The Flexible Connections family includes flex assemblies, fine-pitch jumpers, high-density BGA-based flex assemblies, and rigid flexes using press-fit backplane connectors. "These products extend interconnect limits so customers can innovate." says David Hansen, FCI Global Product Marketing Manager. "Connector technology, flex circuit technology and design services all blend to help customers perfect their own designs." FCI''s Flexible Connections incorporate many of the benefits of flex circuit-based interconnections, including signal routing contained in flat "2D" spaces to improve ventilation, and natural mechanical forgiveness of flex circuitry that reduces stress on surface-mount solder joints. Furthermore, flex assemblies reduce manufacturing complexity and costs and the low-density flex materials reduce overall system weight. Rolled annealed copper construction supports repeated movement and vibration in dynamic applications. The flexible circuits used in PCB connectors increase interconnection possibilities, electro-mechanical flexibility, thus increasing design and manufacturing freedom. A variety of shielding and materials options support electrical and EMI requirements. The Flexible Connections family is part of FCI''s versatile family of MezzSelect(TM) Mezzanine connectors. They are supported by technical information and innovative design tools that can be found at www.mezzselect.com. Design support information is also available at www.fciconnect.com/flexibleconnections.
    To know more about
    > Flexible Connections

  • FCI Expands D-Sub High Density Series - 15/04/2010
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, expanded its D-sub High Density series to address a growing number of applications where higher density packaging is required. With this addition, FCI now offers one of the largest D-sub portfolios available in the market. FCI''s High Density range previously consisted of right-angle female versions only. The additional range adds right-angle male, straight male and female, solder bucket male and female, and crimp male and female versions. This new connector range is ideal for applications requiring more signal density. Higher density connectors with same shell sizes provide 56% to 67% real estate savings on a printed circuit board compared with standard density connectors. The High Density D-sub series is available in contact layouts from 15 to 78 ways in all terminations. These connectors are operable for indoor applications with a temperature range from - 55°C to +105°C. Additionally, design-ins are simplified with distribution stock availability; 24-hour sample shipment; online drawings and specifications; short lead-times and reasonable minimum order quantities. FCI''s full line of D-sub connectors is available on the web, including not only solutions for signal, but also for (mixed) power connectors. The new High Density range is part of FCI''s IO-Connections portfolio, which provides customers access to a wide range of industry-standard and application-specific I/O interconnect solutions.
    To know more about
    > D-Sub High Density Series

  • FCI Acquires Assets of MergeOptics - 23/02/2010
    FCI, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector and cable assembly solutions to the data, communications, consumer, industrial and medical markets. has acquired the assets of MergeOptics (www.mergeoptics.com), a manufacturer of active optical cables (AOCs) and optical transceivers. This acquisition will allow FCI to leverage MergeOptics'' leadership position in AOCs to complement FCI''s passive and active copper cables assemblies to address data and communications market applications. Data centers and high performance computing applications require that the data-rate performance per channel as defined by various standards be maintained over long lengths of cable. Current applications feature both copper high-speed I/O solutions for short-to-moderate lengths. Applications that require longer cable lengths employ the use of fiber optics via either active optical cables or through the use of transceivers. The market requirements for increased speed and port density continue to drive suppliers towards higher speed solutions increasing the utilization of active optical cables and transceivers as the market drives toward 25Gb/s per channel high-speed I/O solutions. "MergeOptics'' leading position in active optical cables extends FCI''s existing high-speed I/O portfolio of passive and active copper solutions," said Pete Curwen, corporate vice president and general manager of FCI - Electronics Division. "With this complete portfolio of I/O product solutions, we will be able to provide our customers with more complete and innovative solutions to meet their needs today and in the future."
    To know more about
    > www.mergeoptics.com

  • FCI QSFP+ Cable Assemblies Pass Infiniband Compliance Testing - 01/02/2010
    FCI announced that its QSFP+ (Quad Small Formfactor Pluggable +) direct attach copper cable assemblies successfully passed all normative compliance testing at the 16th plugfest event sponsored by the Infiniband Trade Association (IBTA) at the University of New Hampshire InterOperability Laboratory (UNH-IOL) in October 2009. The compliance testing verified the functionality of the cable assemblies to Infiniband Single Data Rate (SDR), Double Data Rate (DDR) and Quad Data Rate (QDR) performance requirements. “The results of the Infiniband Trade Association’s Plugfest are highly anticipated and respected in the Infiniband community,” said Jim David, global product manager for High-Speed I/O products. “The independent verification of FCI cable assemblies’ compliance to Infiniband performance specifications validates the robustness of our cable termination and manufacturing processes, established quality systems, and internal cable test procedures.” The QSFP+ interconnect system provides a 4-channel 40 Gb/s (4 x 10 Gb/s) port at 3 to 4 times the linear bandwidth density of SFP+ and XFP systems. The product offering is designed to meet the specification requirements for 4X Infiniband QDR links as well as IEEE 802.3ba (40GBASE-CR4) Ethernet and FibreChannel. System functionality also conforms to SFF-8436 specifications. This 40 Gb/s interconnect system is particularly well-suited for high transactional systems that are typically deployed in data center, networking and high-performance computing applications. FCI’s QSFP+ offering consists of connectors, EMI cages and copper cable assemblies. The connector is a surface-mount, 38-position, card edge connector that is designed and packaged to be pick-and-place-compatible. The corresponding EMI metal cage attaches to the host board by way of press-fit, eye-of-the-needle tails. The cage offering also includes an optional die-cast heat sink and metal heat sink mounting clip for applications where heat dissipation from a mating cable module needs to be addressed. The chassis termination of the cage is accomplished by a stamped EMI girdle that contacts the chassis as the cage is slipped through the chassis opening. The FCI cable assembly offering features highly engineered mating transition boards that assure a proper mechanical mating interface and 10 Gb/s channel bandwidth for signal transmission. Passive copper cable assemblies are offered to the maximum lengths allowed by the different performance specifications noted above. Actively equalized copper cable assemblies are also offered to extend cable lengths or to minimize the cable bulk in applications where airflow or cable routing are major system considerations.
    To know more about
    > QSFP+

  • FCI Cable Assemblies Meet SFP+ Direct Attach Copper Interoperability Test Requirements - 01/02/2010
    FCI announced that its SFP+ (Small Form-factor Pluggable +) copper cable assemblies successfully passed multi-vendor interoperability testing at the SFP+ Direct Attach Copper Plugfest event sponsored by the Ethernet Alliance at the University of New Hampshire InterOperability Laboratory (UNH-IOL) in October 2009. Multiple physical host (PHY), network interface card (NIC), and SFP+ direct attach cable suppliers participated at the plugfest. The test program consisted of three phases: verification of host transmitter output and compliance of each SFP+ cable assembly to the SFF-8431 specification; compliance verification of the receiver input signal with each cable and transmitter combination; and 10 Gigabit Ethernet BER (Bit-Error Rate) transmission tests where each cable was connected between all combinations of PHYs or NICs. “The demonstrated ability of FCI’s direct attach SFP+ copper cable assemblies to meet the compliance and interoperability testing requirements is a significant achievement,” said Jim David, global product manager for High-Speed I/O products. “Users can be confident that our cable assemblies meet SFF-8431 performance requirements and in using FCI cables with equipment from multiple hardware vendors.” FCI’s SFP+ interconnect system consists of connectors, EMI cages and copper cable assemblies that extend serial data rates up to10 Gb/s at the same linear port density as prior SFP systems. FCI offers surface-mount, pick-and-place-compatible SFP+ connectors, single and ganged cage options, as well as passive and activelyequalized copper cable assemblies. All cable assemblies include the EEPROM memory map capability as defined by the applicable SFF specification that allows for cable-to-system communication. The SFP+ system supports 10 Gigabit Ethernet, 8Gb Fibre Channel (8G FC) and Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) cable links with system functionality as defined by the SFF-8431 and SFF-8461 specifications. SFP+ interconnects have been successfully deployed in data center, networking and high-performance computing applications
    To know more about
    > SFP+

  • FCI’s High Power Card Edge Connector Provides Low Power Loss, High Linear Current Density - 29/01/2010
    FCI, a leading manufacturer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces the High Power Card Edge (HPCETM) connector. This next generation power card edge connector is intended for applications demanding low power loss and high linear current density. The connector is rated to 9A per power contact beam (with multiple power contacts fully energized) without exceeding a 30°C temperature rise in still air. The HPCE connector has a low profile height (≤ 7.50mm) and is based on very cost-effective and highly reliable stamped-and-formed power contact technology. “The innovative power contact and housing designs deliver a more compact and lower profile package that is ideal for pluggable AC and DC power supplies or board-to-board connections for power distribution,” said John Dodds, global power product manager at FCI. “These features make the HPCE connector an excellent choice for applications in next generation 1U/2U servers, storage enclosures, telecommunications equipment and datacom/networking equipment.” HPCE connectors are available with power and signal contacts integrated into a single molded housing for power distribution and power control. The flexible, modular tooling approach used for the HPCE connector makes the product highly configurable in terms of the number and placement of the power and signal contacts for custom power needs. The HPCE connector features a low profile height for increased system airflow and heat dissipation, low contact resistance characteristics, significantly increased linear current density, a robust housing with touch-proof safety features and a polarization option to ensure proper mating. Vertical and right-angle options are available to accommodate various system architectures.
    To know more about
    > High Power Card Edge (HPCE™)

  • FCI Launches 1.27mm Modular Connector System - 28/01/2010
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, is launching Minitek 127™, a new modular connector system on a 1.27 (.050") pitch. It is one of the most extensive miniature systems available in the marketplace, capable of a wide variation of board-to-board and cable-to-board interconnections. FCI is already well-known for its various modular interconnection systems including Dubox™ (2.54mm pitch), BergStik® (2.54mm pitch) and Minitek (2mm). Customers have shown an increasing demand for smaller alternatives for electronics applications and an advanced solution for new designs, however, for which Minitek 127 will be an ideal fit. Minitek 127 includes through-mount and surface-mount, as well as straight and right-angle versions, with pin counts up to 100 positions and three types of plating. These can be combined in an even greater number of configurations, making the system capable of solving a wide variety of connection challenges. "With the launch of Minitek 127, we also offer customers all that we have learned from our other systems in terms of service and support," said Paul Isaac FCI''s global marketing manager for modular systems. "And unlike most other systems on the market, Minitek 127 is not a single-source product, but is extensive and matches what are fast becoming the industry standards." As with FCI''s other Basics+ products, Minitek 127™ is strongly supported by FCI''s distributor network.
    To know more about
    > Minitek 127™

  • FCI Enhances Portfolio With Terminal Blocks - 19/01/2010
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces the expansion of its electronics product portfolio with printed circuit board pluggable and fixed terminal blocks that are ideal for industrial and instrumentation applications. "Terminal blocks have been around for many years, but they are still going strong. They are essential for many circuit board designs," said Koos Steding, FCI''s global product manager. "Terminal blocks tie in nicely with FCI''s other proven PCB connectors for board-to-board, wire/cable-to-board and rectangular I/O, which is why we decided to offer even more choice and service to our customers. Designers can now easily select FCI for most of their PCB interconnect needs." FCI''s PCB signal and power terminal blocks are available in pluggable and fixed configurations in various pitch-sizes and wire sizes. The proven rising-cage clamp technology ensures long life and reliable connections. As with all FCI products, its terminal blocks come with the support tools to facilitate easy design-in, such as the web-based Terminal Block Product Selector. This application allows users to easily navigate through various application examples. After selecting a product, the user is immediately directed to a dedicated web page with all product details including specifications, customer drawings and 3D mechanical models. The terminal blocks microsite offers customers direct access to product solutions and provides downloadable information such as product brochures, catalogs and an online cross-reference. A new terminal block catalog will also be available. The catalog provides information on FCI''s full range of plugs, sockets and PCB connectors to support most terminal block needs.
    To know more about
    > Terminal Blocks

  • FCI Features New TwinMezz(R) High-Density, High-Speed Mezzanine Connector System at DesignCon 2010 - 14/01/2010
    FCI announces the successful demonstration of a 20+ Gb/s data stream over its new ultra-high density TwinMezz(R) mezzanine connector system, which has also been named a finalist in the 2010 DesignVision Awards program in the Interconnect Technologies and Components category by the International Engineering Consortium (IEC). The TwinMezz(R) connector system provides superior electrical performance at the highest data rates, the highest signal density, and the lowest insertion force when compared to other available mezzanine connectors. The TwinMezz connectors exhibit very well-matched impedance, low insertion loss, and low crosstalk, which make them well-suited for applications in very high-speed environments. Configurations with six differential signal pairs per column provide maximum signal density, delivering 25 high-speed signal pairs in a square centimeter, or 161 signal pairs in a square inch. The innovative hermaphroditic design mates to itself and supports stack heights ranging from 12mm to 40mm with 200 to 800 total contacts. The TwinMezz connector system provides exceptional flexibility with options for integrated molded or optional metal guides and the capability to mix signal and power wafers in a single connector. The versatile open pin field design offers additional flexibility by allowing for mixed differential, single-ended or power pin assignments in a single connector. TwinMezz connectors also feature FCI''s patented BGA connector termination for easy surface-mount attachment and efficient trace routing. For more information, visit www.fciconnect.com/twinmezz. The TwinMezz(R) connector system, along with other leading edge high-speed and power products from FCI, will be displayed February 2-3 in booth #515 at the DesignCon conference and exhibition in Santa Clara, CA. DesignVision Award winners will be announced at the conference on February 2.
    To know more about
    > Twinmezz™

  • Christophe Duverne is appointed Corporate VP and General Manager of FCI’s Microconnections division - 10/01/2010
    As of January 1st, Christophe DUVERNE, has been appointed Corporate Vice-President and General Manager of FCI’s Microconnections division. Christophe also joins the Executive Committee of FCI. “I am convinced that FCI will highly benefit from Christophe’s deep knowledge of the smart card and RFID industries. These are very competitive environments where his knowledge, associated with a very close cooperation with our customer base at an advanced stage are critical”, says Pierre Vareille, Chairman and CEO of FCI. “I am very excited to join FCI which enjoys a strong reputation in the smart card and RFID markets and holds leadership positions in technology”, says Duverne. Christophe Duverne holds an MBA from INSEAD. He has been working for 20 years in the electronics industry, including 10 years in the smart card semiconductor sector. Prior to joining FCI, he was Senior VP and GM of the Identification business unit of NXP Semiconductors.

  • FCI's Web-based Design Tools Simplify Product Selection - 08/12/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, has developed a dedicated, micro-site for I/O (Input/Output) connector solutions. The micro-site provides customers with an easy to use, web-based interface with direct access to interactive product selectors. Based on a variety of selectable design criteria, these product selectors allow customers to identify the I/O connector that best suits their application. Selector tables for each product category help users navigate through the broad I/O connector portfolio, while search functions help locate key product information such as product drawings and data-sheets, customer view models, and inventory availability. FCI''s I/O connector solutions complete board and system designs by providing high-density and high-speed interfaces to enable interconnect technologies for networking, storage and memory and complementary products for power distribution. "FCI provides customized I/O solutions to address application-specific requirements. With FCI''s high-speed, power, assembly and mechanical packaging expertise, customers gain the advantage of getting signals out of the box at optimal cost and performance, said Rob Poort, FCI global business line director, commercial products. "I/O connectors that are coupled with FCI''s extensive range of backplane and board-to-board connectors and cable assembly products enable complete solutions for equipment designs." FCI''s range of standardized I/O solutions enables full compliance to industry standards including, Ethernet, SFF, Infiniband, USB, PCMCIA(TM) or HDMI(TM).
    To know more about
    > I/O Connections

  • FCI Mezzanine Connectors Provide Multiple Stack Height Options for High-Speed, Fine Pitch Applications - 30/11/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, has expanded its MezzSelect family of versatile mezzanine connectors with a scalable, high-performance, fine pitch, parallel board-to-board connector system. Designated the BergStak® mezzanine connector system, the double-row 0.8mm connectors provide an extra-ordinary range of twelve PCB stack heights in nine connector sizes available in up to 200 positions. BergStak connectors are ideal for communications, computer, industrial, medical and test equipment applications. "BergStak''s proven technology delivers high-quality connector systems with the capabilities to serve new applications in expanding markets," said David Hansen, global product marketing manager." " Unlike sole-sourced mezzanine connectors, BergStak offers tested and validated intermating capability with compatible connector products, providing customers with security and competitive price benefits of dual-sourcing." BergStak connectors are suitable for a wide range of products, with 0.8mm double-row contact pitch to minimize board space and is offered in an extensive range of sizes and stack heights from 40 to 200 position sizes in 20 position increments; and 5mm to 16mm stack heights in 1mm increments. A low-profile connector system such as BergStak, delivers high-speed performance of up 10 Gb/s along with reliable signal integrity performance. With its unique blade-on-beam design, the BergStak system offers optimized connection integrity with early receptacle contacts points, precision-tapered contacts for mating stress control and polarization capabilities to ensure precise contact positioning for accurate mating alignment and reliability. Lead-time is approximately 4 weeks, with pricing of .019 per line at 1000 pieces.
    To know more about
    > BergStak®

  • FCI Smartag wins tender to supply Singapore's libraries - 26/11/2009
    The National Library Board (NLB) in Singapore has just renewed its contract with FCI Smartag for the supply of RFID book and CD labels for 2010-2011. The total volume of the tender comprises 2.7 million book labels and 450,000 CD labels. NLB, which oversee the National Library and public libraries in Singapore, is an early adopter of RFID for their operations. The collaboration with FCI Smartag has been lasting for a few years now, thus allowing NLB to experiment the reliability of the Smartag RFID labels, as well as the facilitation of the book and CD management they provide.
    To know more about
    > FCI Smartag

  • FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces Pwr Profile+(TM) low profile I/O cable assemblies - 24/11/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces Pwr Profile+(TM) low profile I/O cable assemblies. Pwr Profile+ cable assemblies and mating board mount headers are a low profile (8.38mm height) and high current density alternative to existing cable-to-board power connector solutions. Pwr Profile+ is based on cost-effective and highly reliable stamped-and-formed power contact technology similar to other power solutions from FCI. "Pwr Profile+ incorporates an innovative power contact design that permits a more compact, lower profile package for demanding cable-to-board applications," said John Dodds, global power product marketing manager at FCI. "Pwr Profile+ addresses applications requiring additional power density where a need exists to distribute power via cabling in space-constrained, chassis-based equipment platforms." Pwr Profile+ is available with two power contacts (for power and return applications), two signal pins for presence detection or power control and a grounding shield on the board connector for EMC requirements. The grounding shield is optional so it can be omitted if the application does not have EMC concerns. The signal pins for power control are useful for applications that require current/voltage monitoring and/or feedback regarding battery charge levels (in the case of a battery back-up application). The presence detection feature includes a jumpered signal contact that allows the system to monitor which ports have mated cables and which are empty. If power control or presence detection is not needed, the signal contacts can be omitted. Pwr Profile+ is rated to 37A per power contact without exceeding a 30°C temperature rise in still air. The integrated latching system minimizes the connector/cable footprint and the robust housing design includes touch-proof safety features as well as polarization to ensure proper mating. Typical pricing for the R/A board mount header with grounding shield is $4.96 per part in low volume quantities.
    To know more about
    > Pwr Profile+™ Cable Assemblies

  • FCI Microconnections on the show at Cartes 2009, Paris, France (November 17-19) - 06/11/2009
    FCI Microconnections, a worldwide leader in flexible circuits for contact smart card, dual interface applications, RFID tags & antennas and special consumer applications, will be present at Cartes show, Paris. This year, the company draws on its 25 year-old expertise and 25 Billion of delivered products to demonstrate its process and technology capabilities. By offering reliable high volume production and permanent innovation, FCI improves standard products and develops new ones. Product wise, special highlights will be given on FCI product offering for ID applications, RF SIM card, M2M applications and NFC smart stickers, with the objective to support customers in deploying new applications which shall feed the future growth of the smart card industry. Process wise, special highlights will be given on FCI expertise in surface finishing and reel-to-reel processes:
    - After setting a new plating standard for the smart card industry, FCI is working on new innovations both to improve quality while being able to propose a more competitive offer.- FCI is also applying its expertise in reel-to-reel with the view to implement reliable high volume processes to cope with their customer needs. Significant achievements have been reached with setting up of laser drilling, copper plating and Automated Optical Inspection in reel-to-reel.
    To learn about how FCI Microconnections is permanently innovating for a smart future, visit our booth Hall 4 n° L 111.


  • FCI Announces AirMax VS® Connectors for Use in SSI Blade Server Platforms - 08/10/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces that configurations of the popular AirMax VS® high-performance connector system are now available to support blade server platforms. AirMax VS® high-speed signal connectors, guide modules, and power connectors are well suited to connect a Compute Blade module, Compute Blade Mezzanine module, or a Chassis Management Module (CMM) to a midplane in a SSI modular blade server chassis. The high-speed interconnect channels support industry-standard technologies such as PCI Express* Gen 2, Infiniband*, Fibre Channel and IEEE802.3ap*-2007 "Backplane Ethernet" (1000BASE-KX, 10GBASE-KX4 or 10GBASE-KR). A short-detect contact in the signal connectors allows hot-swap insertion and removal of Compute Blade and CMM modules. "Blade servers are the fastest growing server form factor today and unit sales are projected to grow over 20% per year through 2013," said James Lim, global product marketing manager. "The SSI modular blade specifications will help facilitate the market transition to server blades."
    To know more about
    > FCI AirMax VS® connectors

  • FCI BergStik® Products Now More Cost-Efficient, Offer Shorter Lead Times - 15/09/2009
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, has enhanced the production process for the BergStik® product range so that the right-angle and surface-mount units provide lower costs and shorter lead times to customers. Improved manufacturing processes have lowered production costs, resulting in lower end-product costs and shorter lead times. These new developments result in a more economical solution for a wide range of electronic applications. "FCI recognizes that economical solutions should still offer the same high level of performance achieved with connectors priced at a standard rate," said FCI Product Manager, Franck Chapouilly. "In the process, the manufacturing changes we''ve employed allow for improved lead times and purchasing flexibility." The BergStik® product family is available in surface-mount, through-hole and Pin-in-Paste versions with single- and double-row offerings, in straight or right-angle orientation, with two to 72 positions. Featuring a "breakaway" design, each connector can be cut or broken to length to suit the application profile. The maximum current rating is 3A per contact. For more information on the BergStik® product range, please visit www.fci.com/basics Additionally, BergStik® products offer all the benefits of the Basics+® program, which provides exceptional service on a variety of standard 2.54mm- and 2mm-pitch board-to-board, wire-to-board and cable-to-board connectors. Services and benefits of the Basics+ program include immediate technical assistance via the basics.help@fci.com hotline, a dedicated microsite and catalog for easier product research, a simplified ordering process, and fast delivery of sample or prototype quantities.
    To know more about
    > BergStik®

  • FCI launches the AK2+ ESD squib, its latest innovation in airbag connector solutions - 15/09/2009
    FCI has developed the AK2+ ESD (Electro Static Discharge) squib, the first commercially available airbag connector to integrate the grounding function within the squib connector itself. “The new AK2+ ESD connector solution is the result of a partnership with VW/Audi and is due to be employed for the first time in a VW model scheduled for launch in early summer 2010. As an established leader in Safety Restraint Systems (SRS), FCI Motorized Vehicle division remains committed to listening to customer requirements”, explains Marcus Wierer, Director Global Sales & Marketing covering the FCI MVL Business Line SRS/High End Cable Assemblies (HECA). Alongside enhancing reliability and cutting assembly costs, the AK2+ ESD squib eliminates potential misfiring caused by electro static discharge with completely integrated grounding. It thus allows safe traceability of grounding. Last but not least, the new connector retains full compatibility with existing standards (AK, USCAR, ISO 19072-1) as well as FCI’s patented mate assist function, CPA (Connector Position Assurance).

  • FCI Expands Flexible Circuit Connector Family with Lowest Profile Connector for Handheld Applications - 27/08/2009
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, announced the addition of a new ultra low-profile 0.5mm pitch flexible circuit connector to its family of FFC/FPC connectors. Designated the VLP series, the connector system features one of the industry''s lowest mounted profiles at 0.7mm. The connectors are surface mountable with a zero insertion force (ZIF) cable insertion and a backside flip design. The VLP series is an ideal solution for height-constrained applications including smartphones, touchscreens, small displays, handheld medical devices and industrial meters and portable instruments. The ZIF cable insertion design prevents cable buckling and avoids excessive scraping of contact surfaces, which provides for the VLP series'' 20 high number of mating cycles. First introduced by FCI, the back side flip design enables a one-handed cable insertion and actuation process, assuring the cable has been inserted properly and results in a higher quality end product. "We developed the VLP Series connectors to meet customer requests for high quality, lower profile FFC/FPC products," said Akira Nakai, FCI global product line director. "Not only do these connectors conform to the lower profile requirements, but they also include various features that ensure automotive multimedia compatibility, further meeting customers'' needs." To ensure compatibility with automotive multimedia applications, the connector features a flipping actuator that facilitates a secure cable assembly with click actuation. The VLP Series is also available with or without the FCI cable lock strain relief option. Another key feature is a hook-locking mechanism in the actuator of the connector to improve the retention force and mating alignment during cable insertion. The VLP series has a 0.5 mm connector pitch, 0.7mm height and is available in 4,8 and 10 positions.
    To know more about
    > FCI's VLP Series

  • FCI Expands Flexible Circuit Connector Family with Lowest Profile Connector for Handheld Applications - 27/08/2009
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, announced the addition of a new ultra low-profile 0.5mm pitch flexible circuit connector to its family of FFC/FPC connectors. Designated the VLP series, the connector system features one of the industry''s lowest mounted profiles at 0.7mm. The connectors are surface mountable with a zero insertion force (ZIF) cable insertion and a backside flip design. The VLP series is an ideal solution for height-constrained applications including smartphones, touchscreens, small displays, handheld medical devices and industrial meters and portable instruments. The ZIF cable insertion design prevents cable buckling and avoids excessive scraping of contact surfaces, which provides for the VLP series'' 20 high number of mating cycles. First introduced by FCI, the back side flip design enables a one-handed cable insertion and actuation process, assuring the cable has been inserted properly and results in a higher quality end product. "We developed the VLP Series connectors to meet customer requests for high quality, lower profile FFC/FPC products," said Akira Nakai, FCI global product line director. "Not only do these connectors conform to the lower profile requirements, but they also include various features that ensure automotive multimedia compatibility, further meeting customers'' needs." To ensure compatibility with automotive multimedia applications, the connector features a flipping actuator that facilitates a secure cable assembly with click actuation. The VLP Series is also available with or without the FCI cable lock strain relief option. Another key feature is a hook-locking mechanism in the actuator of the connector to improve the retention force and mating alignment during cable insertion. The VLP series has a 0.5 mm connector pitch, 0.7mm height and is available in 4,8 and 10 positions.
    To know more about
    > FCI''s VLP Series

  • FCI fights connector system imitation - 03/08/2009
    FCI Automotive France successfully initiated preliminary injunction proceedings against SeCo, Gdynia (Poland). With the order of June 5, 2009, the District Court of Cologne ordered a preliminary injunction without hearing the defendant in writing or by means of an oral hearing. The Court ordered the defendant to cease and desist from offering or distributing in the Federal Republic of Germany and/or to have offered and/or distributed in the Federal Republic of Germany the attacked connector system, pictured herewith, consisting of a 56-way male connector, a 56-way female connector, a locking slider and a cover on the commercial market. The Court considered that FCI had rendered credible that the attacked connector system was an unfair imitation of the FCI 56-way connector system. The preliminary injunction is subject to appeal in the form of an „opposition“.
    To know more about
    > Wire to Circuit Board Connectors

  • FCI Develops FPC (ZIF) Connector Series For Consumer Electronics - 27/07/2009
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, now offers a complete range of front-side flip-actuator FPC ZIF (Zero insertion force) connectors. Designated the VLK Series, the FPC ZIF connectors provide a robust design that can withstand high-cable retention forces, making them ideal for consumer and automotive applications including LCD monitors, LCD TV sets, optical disc drives and monitors/displays. "Consumer and automotive multimedia systems are utilizing larger and higher-quality LCD displays that require FPC connection," said Akira Nakia, global product line director, FCI. "Optical disc drive systems such as Blu-Ray are consuming elevated levels of data volume that require faster transmission speeds and more signals in the system to connect with pick-up units and module boards. The VLK Series was designed to meet these requirements." The connector’s flipping actuator facilitates the secure cable assembly with click actuation. FCI integrated these features to ensure compatibility for automotive multimedia applications. The connectors front-side flip actuator facilitates the secure cable assembly with click actuation. The VLK Series connectors are currently available in 35, 45 and 60 contact versions and can be assembled with a 0.3mm thick FPC cable.
    To know more about
    > Flex Connectors

  • FCI group enters into agreement to sell its US-based Electrical division to Hubbell Incorporated - 22/07/2009
    FCI group is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement to sell its Electrical division* known by the brand name BURNDY® to Hubbell Incorporated. BURNDY® represented circa 12% of FCI group’s total sales revenue in 2008. As a result of the excellent performance of its Electrical division, FCI had received many unsolicited offers over the years for its acquisition. Some of the recent offers were particularly attractive and deserved closer attention. Therefore, FCI top management decided to carefully study these proposals, which ended in the decision to divest the Division. Pierre Vareille, Chairman and CEO of FCI group, comments – ‘The Electrical Division had the least synergies with the other divisions of FCI in terms of products and customers and we think that the combination with Hubbell will enhance the value creation opportunities for the BURNDY® brand. Moreover, thanks to this divestiture, FCI’s financial situation is more sound and stable than ever. This divestiture opens for FCI a wealth of opportunities for new developments, be it vis-à-vis our customers, our partners or other companies that may join our group.’ The deal remains subject to approval of competent authorities and shall be finalized during Q4 2009.

  • FCI Smartag presents new RFID X-range CD / DVD labels and book labels at ALA trade show in Chicago, USA (July 11-14, 2009) - 07/07/2009
    FCI Smartag goes a step further in the development of innovative RFID products for library applications. At the American Library Association (ALA) trade show in Chicago, FCI Smartag will present the newest members of its RFID Labels – the aluminium-based X-range CD / DVD label. The X-range CD / DVD labels are perfect where tracking and identification CD / DVD is required. Offering extended read performance, X-Range clearly proved to be more effective for anti-thief purposes. Additionally, utilizing a clear substrate minimizes the coverage of text and information on the CD / DVD itself. The aggressive adhesive prevents any attempt to remove the label. Gretchen Freeman, Associate Director for Technology at Salt Lake County Library Services says of the X-Range label “Pre-programmed X-range tags represent another huge productivity jump for us in terms of processing disks. Besides, FCI has always gone the extra mile to package our tags exactly how we need them.” Smartag’s ISO 15693 based RFID book labels include blank, printed labels with personalized library logo, and printed labels with barcodes and encoding services. The latter ones consistently minimize library processing. Transparent labels are suitable for magazines, periodical materials, children books, etc. The labels reduce blocking of reading contents to the minimal on applied surface. Both label types are available in several sizes to suit various library requirements. Already a global leader in RFID, with more than 100 million labels and tags in the market, FCI Smartag has reinforced development capacity with a brand-new dedicated R&D center in Singapore. Please visit us on our booth #924.
    To know more about
    > Register now

  • FCI Microconnections reinforces its presence in North America - 07/07/2009
    FCI, the worldwide leader in flexible circuits for contact smartcard, reinforces its presence in the US with an experimented team. Robert M. Fee, Regional Manager Americas, joined FCI Microconnections’ division to significantly develop the business of existing and new accounts for the full range of FCI products. He addresses growing opportunities in the Americas particularly in the field of smart security, asset tracking and flexible printed circuits for consumer and industry applications. Prior to joining FCI, Robert was the general manager of LEGIC Identsytems’ America’s business unit. LEGIC is a leading designer and manufacturer of 13.56 MHz contactless smart card technologies. Since he started his career, Robert has worked for major US corporations creating marketing and sales strategies and programs, such as Cernium, Inc., Rockwell Electronics Commerce or Zebra Technologies. RFID specialist Chris Zimmardi, Senior Field Applications Engineer Americas, is responsible for technically supporting existing and new customers for current and new applications in the field of RFID either for smart security or asset tracking segments – banking, mass transit, NFC, libraries, industry, pharma, cosmetics and data storage. Chris began his career as a system engineer with defense contractors Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin. As a Field Application Engineer at Texas instruments, his role included sales and marketing support for TI’s passive RFID technologies including LF, HF and UHF. Chris then transitioned to Hitachi America, Ltd., to continue as sales engineer for Hitachi’s Mu-solutions. Chris is co-author of RFID Item Level Management, A practical Approach (Andrechak, Wilson and Zimmardi, Mullaney Publishing Group, L.L.P. © 2007). Robert M. Fee has been active on a variety of trade associations including CompTIA, IACLEA, IAHSS and the Smart Card Alliance. Mr. Fee has written article on contactless smartcard technology for Security, RE:ID News and ST&D Magazine.

  • Liam Butterworth is appointed Corporate VP and General Manager of FCI’s Motorized Vehicle division - 19/06/2009
    As of June 1st, Liam BUTTERWORTH, has been appointed Corporate VP and General Manager of FCI’s Motorized Vehicle division. Liam will also join the Executive Committee of FCI. He thus succeeds Marc Moulinier who spent 7 years at the helm of the Division. Liam Butterworth who is 38 years old holds an MBA from Lancaster University and previously worked for Lucas Industries and TRW Automotive in UK prior to joining FCI in 2000. Since joining FCI he has held several positions in the field of Sales, Marketing & Purchasing and most recently was appointed VP Sales & Marketing for MVL Division in November 2008.

  • FCI and Tyco Electronics Announce Pwr TwinBlade™ I/O Connector Product License Agreement - 03/06/2009
    FCI Electronics, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces that it has agreed to license the Pwr TwinBlade™ I/O Connector System to Tyco Electronics. This agreement builds on FCI’s and Tyco Electronics’ previous power licensing success by providing a certified second source for this high power I/O cable-to-board connector solution. Pwr TwinBlade meets customer demands for high power delivery and distribution in servers, storage enclosures, networking, communications or industrial equipment. It is designed to address requirements that extend beyond the capability of many existing cable-to- board power connectors. “Customers are requesting next generation power solutions to meet emerging application requirements,” said John Dodds, FCI’s global product marketing manager for power products. “The market is best served when these solutions are available with certified second sources. This agreement allows FCI and Tyco Electronics to successfully meet both criteria thus ensuring joint intermateability and performance along with continuity of supply.” The Pwr TwinBlade connector system anticipates increasing system power demands that are driving the need for greater power density. This connector system accommodates up to 100 amps per twin contact based on a 30°C temperature rise with zero airflow. It supports multiple wire sizes including 10mm2, 16mm2 and 25mm2 and is available with straight or right angle cable exit options for maximized routing flexibility. The right angle board connector enables use in front I/O applications. In addition, Pwr TwinBlade features a robust design with touch-proof safety features, an integrated active latching system, four coding key options and a polarized housing to ensure proper mating. Similar to other FCI power products, Pwr TwinBlade offers a vented housing design to optimize heat dissipation and features cost-effective stamped-and formed
    To know more about
    > Pwr TwinBlade and other FCI Power Solutions

  • FCI and Tyco Electronics Announce HCI® Power Connector Product License Agreement - 03/06/2009
    FCI Electronics, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces that it has agreed to license the HCI® Power Distribution Connector System to Tyco Electronics. This agreement builds on FCI’s and Tyco Electronics’ previous power licensing success by providing a certified second source for this high current density board-to-board power connector solution. HCI meets customer demands for additional power density in pluggable DC or AC power supply interfaces in servers, storage enclosures, networking or communications equipment. The connector is designed to address requirements that extend beyond the capability of existing power supply connectors including FCI’s PwrBlade® and Tyco Electronics’ MULTIBEAM XL™ connector systems. “Customers are requesting next-generation power solutions to meet emerging application requirements,” said John Dodds, FCI’s global product marketing manager for power products. “The market is best served when these solutions are available with certified second sources. This agreement allows FCI and Tyco Electronics to successfully meet both criteria thus ensuring joint intermateability and performance along with continuity of supply.” The HCI connector system anticipates increasing system power demands that are driving the need for greater power density. A single HCI power contact accommodates over 82 amps based on a 30°C temperature rise with zero airflow. The high current-carrying capacity coupled with a robust, molded-in guidance system is ideal for high-wattage, blindmate power supplies. HCI configurations support both standard co-planar and backplane interfaces. The fully integrated design enables DC power, AC power and signal contacts in a single molded housing. Similar to existing FCI power connector platforms, HCI is modularly tooled allowing incredible flexibility to address custom configuration requirements. HCI features cost-effective stamped-and-formed contacts as well as a vented and touchproof housing to optimize airflow above, below and through the connector. These features allow heat to escape from contact surfaces producing the lowest product height among comparable high-current connectors.
    To know more about
    > HCI Power Connector System

  • FCI Recognized for Supplier Excellence by TTI - 02/06/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, was named by TTI, Inc. as a winner of the 2008 Supplier Excellence award in the Americas and Asia. TTI, Inc. is one of the world’s leading distributor specialist for passive and interconnect components. The selection process for the award was based on criteria that included one-time delivery, receiving quality, customer quality, and business systems, as well as performance measurements such as sales results, profitability, and percent growth. FCI has received the silver status award for achieving outstanding performance for the past three years in the Americas. This year is the first that FCI has received the Supplier Excellence award in Asia. As a leading manufacturer of connectors for the communications, consumer electronics, data, industrial and medical industries, FCI is committed to providing the highest quality connectors, as well as unmatched technical support and expertise. By providing its distributors with the services they need to sell their products, FCI has developed strong and lasting relationships around the world. According to Sam C.W. Sung, product marketing director Asia for TTI, Inc., “Achievement of this award not only represents the dedication of all FCI Asia employees to TTI Asia, but also management’s commitment and overall operating philosophy for excellence by allocation of resources allowing employees the opportunity to do the right thing in order to ensure customer satisfaction.” FCI accepted its award for the Americas at the 2009 EDS Show in Las Vegas, on May 12th. The FCI team accepted its Asia award at a ceremony that took place in Singapore on May 13th.

  • BURNDY® Product now offers range of IMPLO™ implosive connector products - 02/06/2009
    BURNDY® Products, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector and tooling solutions to the industrial, telecom, and energy industries, has added to its portfolio of products for Transmission Interconnect applications with the introduction of a range of IMPLO™ implosive connector products. These new product offerings include IMPLO Jumper Terminals, IMPLO Full Tension Joins, IMPLO Dead End Joints, and IMPLO Repair Sleeves. The new implosive connector products accommodate a wide range of ACSR, ACSS, ACSS/TW, ASC, and ASC/TW conductors. They provide consistent, smooth, high quality installations, and require no tools or dies. BURNDY IMPLO Dead End Joints are available in various dead end configurations, tap pad angles, and eyebolt versions. Jumper Terminals and Dead End Joints come with a 15 degree tap pad standard. The increasing acceptance of implosive technology as a means for the installation of transmission connectors for the Utility marketplace is the result of intensive research & development coupled with successful testing and field installations. The result is a high quality, long lasting connection synonymous with that of the BURNDY Transmission portfolio of products. BURNDY Products is committed to providing consistent excellence in quality, reliability, and service to the electrical utilities industry, in the safest possible manner, at the most competitive cost, and to the highest possible standards. There is Only One IMPLO™.
    To know more about
    > Implo Technologies

  • FCI Announces AirMaX VS® Connectors Optimized for Use in 85Ω Environments - 13/05/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, is expanding the application range of its popular AirMax VS® high-performance connector system with the addition of connectors that are optimized to minimize impedance discontinuities and unacceptable signal loss when inserted in 85-ohm channels. The connectors’ mating interfaces also satisfy demands for backwards compatibility to legacy 100-ohm product interfaces ensuring a smooth transition to next-generation designs. “Since FCI and Intel presented “Improving System Performance by Reducing System Impedance to 85 Ohms” at the February 2007 DesignCon conference, systems employing 85-ohm channels have moved from being a topic of technical discussions to reality,” said James Lim, global product marketing manager. In 2009, new-generation server platforms now provide support for 5 GT/s PCI Express® links and Intel® Quick Path Interconnect (Intel® QPI) links between processors or processors and I/O controllers. With the Intel® QPI architecture offering transfer rates of 6.4 Gb/s to > 8 Gb/s per lane, memory bandwidth utilization is significantly lower, enabling multiple bi-directional 10 GbE ports in a server. FCI has developed several high-performance AirMax VS 85-ohm connectors to support Intel QPI links. Standard connector configurations include vertical and right-angle header and receptacle modules to enable right-angle and coplanar connections. These products have been tested and fully comply with differential insertion loss, impedance, and crosstalk requirements defined in the Intel QPI connector specifications. Each insert-molded, lead-frame wafer provides 15 contacts, capable of supporting five highspeed differential signal pairs per column. Connectors can be supplied with insert-molded, lead-frame wafers on either 2mm or 3mm column pitch. Connector configurations with 3 differential signal pairs per column are also under development with some connector types available now in sample quantities.
    To know more about
    > High Speed Connectors

  • FCI launches HCI® High Power Connectors for Backplane and Midplane Interfaces - 13/05/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces the HCI® High Power backplane and midplane connector series to address customer demand for additional power at the interface between daughter cards and backplanes or midplanes in chassis-based platforms. These compact 2- and 3-position power modules utilize recently introduced HCI technology to enable increased linear power density along the daughter card edge. The HCI High Power backplane and midplane connectors are intended for host-to-card applications such as the blade, controller card or line card interfaces in servers, storage enclosures, networking or communications equipment. “These stand-alone modules are designed for use alongside other hard metric (HM) backplane connector families such as FCI’s high-performance AirMax VS® and ZipLine™ connector systems as well as Millipacs® 2mm HM connectors,” said John Dodds, global power product marketing manager at FCI. “In fact, ZipLine and HCI High Power together offer the highest combination of signal and power density in the market.” HCI High Power modules extend beyond the capability of FCI’s proven Hard Metric High Power connector system currently used in many production platforms. HCI High Power is rated for up to 75A per contact without exceeding a 30ºC temperature rise (no airflow). Individual power contacts are surrounded on four sides by molded housing walls resulting in an added safety feature that ensures adjacent power contacts cannot short together. In addition to conventional 1 x 2 and 1 x 3 power contact configurations, a 2-position module is available with an integrated guide between the two power contacts. The series offers up to 261A/inch linear power density and is based on standard and costeffective stamped-and-formed power contact technology. Typical pricing for the 2-position HCI High Power configuration is $6.50 per mated pair in prototype quantities.
    To know more about
    > HCI High Power

  • FCI’s Proven Connector Technology Ideal for LED Applications - 12/05/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, offers a wide breadth of connector products that are ideal for use in the LED market. FCI’s connectors are now being used in a wide variety of LED applications, such as controllers and power, video walls, signals, signs and displays, providing design engineers with proven, quality connector technology to accelerate the design process. “With today’s focus on miniaturization and the environment, LED applications are in the spotlight,” said Koos Steding, global product marketing manager at FCI. “FCI brings its superior product performance and outstanding technical support to meet the needs of our customers in the LED market. We are providing our customers with adaptable, proven technology and service programs such as Basics+ and Mezzselect, that will simplify the design process for the latest LED designs.” FCI is able to support LED applications with its board-to-board, wire-to-board, power, FFC/FPC, backplane, I/O and IP68-proof solutions. Proven connector lines available for these applications include Bergstak, Conan, Minitek, PwrBladeBergstik, Duboxand others.
    To know more about
    > LED Applications

  • Chennai Product Engineering Center (CPEC) receives ISO 9001 certification - 07/05/2009
    Bureau Veritas Certification, India, recently awarded ISO 9001-2000 certification on Chennai Product Engineering Center, thus demonstrating the design center's compliance with ISO standards. CPEC is FCI's innovative and cost effective design center that was created in 2001 in Chennai, India, to support MVL product design activities. CPEC now employs 70 designers working concurrently with Motorized Vehicles, Electrical and Electronics divisions' engineering centers on product design, FEA (Finite Element Analysis) and tooling design activities. Scope of ISO certification includes: 1. Design of connectors and their tooling 2. Providing engineering solutions to FCI Motorized Vehicles, Electronics and Electrical divisions. This full scope product and tooling design certification is a result of excellence in established quality procedures and standard best practices followed by the CPEC teams.

  • FCI Expands Minitek™ Series with Shrouded Stacking Header - 29/04/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, has expanded its Minitek™ connector range with a shrouded stacking header. Minitek™ is the industry’s leading 2mm modular connection system. The components of the system are fully intermateable to allow all variations of board-to-board, wire-to-board and cable-to-board connections. Standard stacking headers (also known as railroad tracks because of their appearance) consist of two molded bodies on a compliant pin. Because they can be manufactured with any size spacing between the bodies, fine adjustments in board stacking heights can be achieved, freeing the designer to meet other functional requirements rather than being tied to the manufacturer’s standard heights. This new Minitek™ shrouded version has the same capability, but improves functionality by making a more physically stable connection. The design of the shroud features end walls and a keying system, thus preventing mis-mating during production. The shrouded header is ideal for industrial and automotive designs, but the product can be used anywhere that a mezzanine connection with specific spacing is required. With the addition of this stacking header, FCI’s Minitek™ product range is now capable of handling the widest variety of design requirements. Minitek is part of the FCI’s Basics+ product range, which offers exceptional service on a variety of standard connectors. FCI’s full line of Minitek™ connectors is available on the web.
    To know more about
    > FCI’s shrouded stacking header

  • FCI’s eSATA connector provides external data backup at speeds up to 3Gb/s - 22/04/2009
    FCI has expanded its line of storage interface interconnects with the development of an eSATA input/output connector aimed at singlelane external storage applications with less than six feet of cable. Up to five times faster than existing external storage solutions like USB 2.0 and FireWire 400, the eSATA connector provides external data backup and protection at speeds up to 3 Gb/s and is ideal for applications such as desktop and notebook computers, set-top boxes, gaming equipment, external portable storage and USB-related equipment.
    The eSATA connector operates at both Gen1 and Gen2 speeds so regardless of the implementation the outside of the device enclosure will meet Gen1m specifications when operating at Gen1 speeds and Gen2m specifications when operation at Gen2 speeds.
    The eSATA is available with eSATA + USB 2.0 in the same connector housing, and is available in versions including eSATA, eSATA + USB or eSATA/USB (2-in-1) combination. Offering high durability of 2500 cycles, the connector withstands a mating force of 40N maximum and an unmating force of 10N minimum. The eSATA connector is RoHS-compliant and compatible with lead-free processing temperatures.
    To know more about
     > Serial ATA

  • FCI Expands Magnetic Jacks to the RJ45 Portfolio - 22/04/2009
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, is expanding its RJ45 portfolio to include a magnetic jacks product offering. This new addition suits a wide range of equipment including entertainment, home and small business networking and enterprise networking needs including networking routers/switching hubs, set-top boxes, printers and networking adapters/ LAN cards.
    “The magnetic jack connectors are designed to accommodate today’s demand for highspeed communication applications”said Alex Liang, responsible Product Manager at FCI.
    The RJ45 connectors are most commonly used for 10/100 and 1000Base-T ethernet connections. The jacks with current ratings of 1.5A and voltage ratings of 150V AC are available with or without LEDs.
    To know more about
     > Magnetic Jack>

  • FCI Microconnections on the show at Cards Asia 2008 and RFID World Asia – Singapore, April 9-11 - 22/04/2009
    FCI Microconnections Division will attend Cards Asia show in Singapore, a core event for the main players on the smart card market. As a first choice supplier of micro circuitry on flexible films for smart card applications, antennas and tags for RFID applications, FCI Microconnections Division takes the opportunity to display its latest range of products.
    Preparing to tap into the highly promising market of mobile payment, FCI Microconnections is currently working on three different RFID antenna technologies enabling m-payment: NFC (flexible reader antenna), flexible antenna connected to Dual-Interface SIM and Contactless SIM in collaboration with major customers. The global mobile phone market is indeed forecast to reach 1.5 billion units in 2010, up from 1 Billion in 2006. 2007 will be a turn point for trial deployment and by early 2008, the first m-payment phones should be on the market. FCI Microconnections is set to be at the heart of this revolution!
    Further on innovation, FCI Smartag, FCI Microconnections’ offspring specialized in producing HF and UHF RFID inlays and smart tags, will present RFID X-range CD/DVD labels and books labels. These RFID labels are primarily destined to Library and Archiving, enabling easy tracking and identification. Transparency is an extra asset minimizing the coverage of text and information on the CD / DVDs and books. Both labels are available in various sizes and support customized requirements. Second market in Asset tracking targeted by FCI Smartag is the Cosmetics / Pharmaceutical sector for which it has designed miniature labels used in applications where size constraints and geometry is critical. RFID inlets for harsh environments are also available for encapsulation, injection and overmold processes. For more information and questions on customized requirements, please visit us on our booth. Practical information FCI Booth: # 4N09 Time: 9th Apr: 10:30am - 5:30pm 10th Apr: 10:00am - 5:30pm 11th Apr: 10:00am - 3:30pm Venue: Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Center Hall 602 1 Raffles Boulevard Suntec City, Singapore
    To know more about
     > Card Asia 2008

  • FCI Develops Customized Solutions for E1/T1 and VDSL applications - 22/04/2009
    FCI, one of the leading suppliers of connectors and interconnect systems, has developed several customized I-O connector solutions for E1/T1 and xDSL applications, including a cable connector and a board connector solution. These solutions are ideal in the telecom industry.
    The E1/T1 transmission protocol is used to transmit voice and data between devices and runs at a speed of 2Mbit/s. ADSL and VDSL (-2) solutions run at higher speeds, up to 100 Mbit/s and are capable of supporting new high bandwidth applications such as, general internet access, HDTV and Voice over IP services.
    ‘’Although in both cases the data transmission takes place over a single twisted pair of copper cable, most of FCI’s cable connector solutions are customized to accommodate a customer specific needs,’’ said Remco Innemee, global telecom market manager, FCI. ‘’Requests vary based on the connector system, cable, cable management and cabinet requirements including meeting over-voltage specifications like ITU-T K20.’’
    FCI’s range consist of solutions from 8 up to 72 pairs per connector and are designed to connect to cost-effective shielded cable options. Based on the proven Metral® IDC (insulation displacement contact) technology, FCI is capable of using standard building blocks, to market these customized solutions at limited development cost and in a relatively short development time addressing our customer’s need for short time-to-market.
    In addition, FCI serves its customers with cable assemblies that compliment the custom connector systems developed for E1/T1 and xDSL solutions.

  • FCI Smartag presents RFID X-range CD / DVD labels and book labels at PLA exhibition in Minneapolis, USA - 22/04/2009
    FCI Smartag goes a step further in the development of innovative RFID products for library applications. At PLA Minneapolis, FCI Smartag will present the newest members of its RFID Labels – X-range CD / DVD labels and book labels.
    The X-range CD / DVD labels are suitable where tracking and identification CD / DVD is required. They have better read performance when placed on surface and proved to be more effective on anti-thief purposes. Utilizing a clear substrate minimizes the coverage of text and information on the CD / DVD itself.
    RFID book labels include blank, printed labels with personalized library logo, and printed labels with barcode and pre-programming on the tag. The latter ones consistently minimize library processing. Transparent labels are suitable for magazines, periodical materials, children books, etc. The labels reduce blocking of reading contents to the minimal on applied surface.
    Both label types are available in several sizes to suit various library requirements. T.S. Lian, General Manager of FCI Smartag, is very confident in the future of these innovative products: ‘we strongly believe in the development of RFID labels in the library sector. Already a global leader in RFID, with more than 100 million parts in the market, FCI Smartag has recently reinforced its development capacity with a brand-new dedicated R&D center in Singapore’.
    please visit us on our booth n°324 or for more information on our website
    > Smartag RFID Labels & Inlays

  • BURNDY® Products Introduces New Wejtap™ In-Line Disconnect Switch For Distribution Applications - 22/04/2009
    BURNDY® PRODUCTS introduces its new WEJTAP™ In-Line Disconnect Switch, combining proven WEJTAP™ technology with industry-standard components to bring the most reliable performance to switch/distribution line connections. The WEJTAP™ In-Line Disconnect Switch features recognized and proven GST&D Products Ltd. blade components, as well as dual Advanced Rubber Products, Inc. insulators attached to a BURNDY-designed yoke plate assembly. It is ideal for use in gloving and hot stick applications when paired with an industry-standard load break tool.
    The WEJTAP™ In-Line Disconnect Switch utilizes dual insulators to minimize switch movement during the opening and closing of the blade. Installation steps are kept to a minimum, as the switch can be snapped directly onto the line and secured with BURNDY’s conductor pivot retainer. WEJTAP tooling secures the unit’s “C Member” to the built-in wedge feature of the frame, providing reliable mechanical and electrical performance.

  • FCI’s Minitek™ 2mm Modular Connector System Now Most Complete in Industry - 22/04/2009
    FCI, one of the leading suppliers of connectors and interconnect systems is well known for its modular connector systems, among other things. With the recently announced product line additions of the eject latch header, the active latch cable housing and several other key changes, the Minitek™ product family is now the most complete 2mm modular system on the market. Designers now have an extensive solution for all types of board-to-board, wire-to-board and cable-to-board interconnections on this pitch size. One particular advantage of Minitek™ over other systems of this type is its intermateability. The new active latch cable housing, for example, is unique in that it is not part of a separate system, but mates with the standard headers. Other aspects were also given specific attention in order to meet the most demanding current requirements of the industry. - The eject latch header is the lowest profile design available - Normal operating temperature is 125°C - co-planarity of SMT parts is just 0.1mm - Pin-in-Paste versions exist and have full application support - carefully controlled selective plating reduces cost while maintaining performance Minitek™ is part of the Basics+ program, which offers outstanding service on standard connectors.
    To know more about
     > Basics+

  • FCI present at AutoTronics 2008 – Taipei, April 9-12 - 22/04/2009
    We are pleased to announce that FCI Taiwan is participating in AutoTronics Taipei 2008 that will be held from 9 Apr to 12 Apr 2008. In conjunction with Taipei International Auto Parts and Accessories (AMPA) and Taiwan International Motorcycle Industry shows.
    AutoTronics 2008 will be a great opportunity for FCI to showcase connectors that are used for Car Multi-media Devices: FAKRA RF, mini-UHF RF R/A, Power Control 28P, detachable 19P Board to Board, Floating Board to Board, 0.8/1.0mm Board to Board, 0.5mm FFC/FPC, iVDR, SD, USB Type A, mini USB Type AB/B and MCC SATA. Practical information FCI Booth no.: A0309 Time: 9:00am to 5:00pm Venue: Taipei World Center (TWTC) Exhibition Hall 1, Area A&D No.5,Hsin-yiRd, Sec.5,Taipei,Taiwan, R.O.C. 11011
    To know more about
     > AutoTronics 2008

  • Millipacs® Headers Now Available With Pin-in-Paste Technology - 22/04/2009
    FCI, one of the leading suppliers of connectors and interconnect systems, has introduced Pin-in-Paste termination Millipacs® Type C headers.
    Primarily used as daughter card connectors in rack systems, the technology is also being used for board-to-board and wire-to-board applications in the telecom and industrial markets.
    “This new technology helps to process SMD and THR components on the PCB using the same machines and procedures in a single step,” said Bavo Teunissen, global marketing communications director, FCI. “It eliminates wave/selective soldering or press-fitting and helps save time and cost.”
    The 2mm Millipacs® family consists of 5-row and 8-row versions and has traditionally been offered with FCI’s eye-of-needle press fit termination. This is the first in a potential range of solder-to-board, Pin-in-Paste applications. To smoothly incorporate into the board assembly process, the design features reflow temperature resistant resin, is packaged in tape, has a pick-up cap for automatic pick-and-place by vacuum nozzle and meets all requirements of IEC 61076-4-101. The principle of PIP is that solder through-hole component posts are placed in PCB holes with SMT solder paste and then reflow soldered. The result and quality depends on the hole size verses the pin size, the amount of solder paste, and the PCB thickness.

  • FCI''s AirMax VS® Connector System Enables Storage Bridge Bay 2.0 - 22/04/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces that the AirMax VS® 3-pair backplane connector system meets the mid-plane connector interface requirements defined in the recently-announced Storage Bridge Bay (SBB), Version 2.0 specification. Leading companies in the data storage industry collaborated as part of the Storage Bridge Bay Working Group (SBBWG) to build on the previously released Version 1.0 specification, which defined a standard mechanical and electrical interface between a storage array backplane and storage controllers.
    “The 54-position signal modules, power modules and guide modules, all available as part of the AirMax VS® high-speed connector system, continue to be a perfect fit to the SBB mechanical and electrical requirements,” said David Sideck, FCI regional market manager.
    “The compact module form factors permitted up to three additional signal modules within the envelope of a common SBB canister and helped enable optional support for up to 48 drives. The capability to scale differential signals to 12.5 Gb/s with the AirMax VS® system also helped facilitate support for higher-speed signaling, such as 4 Gb/s Fibre Channel.”
    The SBB specification defines the mechanical and electrical requirements and the midplane connector interface for a storage enclosure controller slot that will support a variety of storage controllers from a variety of independent hardware vendors (IHVs). Any storage controller design based on this specification shall be able to fit, connect, and operate within any storage enclosure controller slot design based on the same specification. The definition of the physical dimensions of the controller canister and slot and the storage controller interface is expected to decrease development costs for low and mid-range storage systems. The revolutionary AirMax VS® system uses edge-coupling technology and an air dielectric between adjacent conductors to deliver high signal density with low insertion loss and low crosstalk, all without the use of costly and space-consuming metal shields. The capability to scale differential signals to 12.5 Gb/s with the AirMax VS® system also provides headroom to support future increases in data rates without requiring changes to the connector interface.
    AirMax VS® signal modules also allow for mixed pin assignments (differential or single-ended signals or power), to provide additional flexibility to system designers. The AirMax VS® 3-pair design provides 9 individual contacts per column, which supports three differential signal pairs. The low connector profile can be used as a means to improve airflow for cooling or can be used to achieve slot spacing down to 16.7mm. Pricing typically starts at $0.10-$0.12 per mated signal line with a lead time of 4-6 weeks.
    To know more about
     > AirMax VS®

  • TwinMezz™ Mezzanine Connectors Offer High Density and High Performance - 22/04/2009
    FCI, one of the leading suppliers of connectors and interconnect systems, is introducing the TwinMezz™ board-stacking connector, bringing ultra-high density to mezzanine applications while exhibiting next-generation, high-speed electrical performance. The TwinMezz™ system packs 25 high-speed differential signal pairs in a square centimeter, or 161 signal pairs in a square inch, of board area.
    A hermaphroditic design allows the TwinMezz™ connector to mate to itself, significantly reducing the number of part variations needed to accomplish a range of different stack heights. Current plans are to support 6 different connector heights to offer 20 different stack heights in the range of 12mm to 40 mm. Planned options for 2, 4, or 6 differential signal pairs per column will provide capability for circuit counts ranging from 80 to 800 contact positions and to tailor the connector width to fit available board space. The TwinMezz™ connectors exhibit very well-matched impedance, low insertion loss, and low crosstalk, which make them well-suited for applications in very high speed environments. The open pin field structure, building on the same edge-coupled technology used in FCI’s successful AirMax VS® high-speed connector system, allows for custom pin assignments so speed and signal density can be optimized. With optimized wiring patterns, transmission rates of 25 Gb/s or higher are achievable. TwinMezz connectors also feature FCI’s patented BGA connector termination for easy attachment to printed circuit boards using conventional reflow soldering processes. The TwinMezz connector system will be further developed during the 1st half of 2008 and, when in production, the product line will be part of FCI’s MezzSelect™ product portfolio.
    To know more about
     > TwinMezz™

  • FCIs MezzSelect™ Product Selector Simplifies Selection In Its Mezzanine Connector Portfolio - 22/04/2009
    FCI, one of the leading suppliers of connectors and interconnect systems, has introduced the MezzSelect™ product portfolio to help designers of printed circuit board assemblies complete mezzanine designs faster, easier and with less risk. This product portfolio consists of a number of mezzanine connectors addressing a wide range of markets including high-speed data-networking, industrial, instrumentation, telecommunications and medical electronics applications.
    “FCI has become the partner of choice for mezzanine products,” said Rob Poort, global product portfolio director- board-to-board products, FCI. “The MezzSelect product selector reduces the complexity that mezzanine interconnect designs bring and reduces lead time with instant access to technical information on each connector.” FCI’s product selector allows designers to choose a product based on a number of different factors, including contact pitch, module size, operating transmission speed, density, termination style and stack height. Finding the right product for a specific application is easy with the use of a web-based product selector and design tools such as drawings, models, SPICE files and datasheets. With this portfolio, designers are able to optimize the cost and performance of the connectors that they choose for their designs and maximize the space on printed circuit boards. The portfolio includes many of FCI’s connectors brands including MEGArray®, GIGArray®, Bergstak®, Conan®, Ribcage™, Minitek™, Bergstik® and Dubox™.
    To know more about
     > MezzSelect™

  • FCI present at DesignCon 2008 – USA, February 4-7 - 22/04/2009
    DesignCon will be the opportunity for FCI to highlight on its booth # 503: high-performance ZipLineTM and AirMax VS® backplane and orthogonal connector systems, MezzSelectTM mezzanine connectors, Power Solutions, and high-speed cable assemblies.
    FCI will release the global launch of MezzSelect™: a product portfolio consisting in 8 of FCI well know Mezzanine products and demonstrate ZipLine™ running at 10 Gb/s, TwinMezz™ and AirMax VS® both 100 and 85 Ω.
    FCI also organize specific events:
    - Tech Forum “ Chip, PCB and Connector Technologies for Meeting Today’s and Tomorrow’s 10+Gb Signaling requirements – a report on current trends and future roadmap” on Monday 4 From 9.00 to noon (TF-MA3).
    - Paper presentation “EMI shielding of Cable Assemblies on Wednesday 6 from 2:50 to 3:30 pm (11-WP2).
    To know more about
     > DesingCon 2008

  • FCI Introduces New Minitek™ Eject Latch Header - 22/04/2009
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, introduces its new Minitek™ eject latch header.
    2mm pitch sizes are increasingly used in board-to-board and wire/cable-to-board modular connector systems. FCI is one of the leading players in this market with its Minitek™ system, and continues to expand its offering.
    The new header mates with ribbon cable receptacles and features two side latches which both latch the receptacle securely in place and can be used to easily eject it whenever required. There is also a polarization option and the whole design has the lowest profile of its type. It is particularly suited for applications with high vibration or demanding environments.
    FCI already produces an IDC (Insulation Displacement Connection) receptacle, which is available with or without strain relief, both versions of which mate with the new header.
    Minitek™ is part of the Basics+ program and as such is extensively supported via the hot line (basics.help@fci.com).
    To know more about
     > Basics+

  • FCI extends its product offering for Motorized Vehicle Market - 22/04/2009
    Effective January 2008, FCI will selectively leverage its strong relationships with electronics distributors to target the dynamic motorized vehicle market.
    FCI provides a full range of robust and reliable connector solutions with applications beyond the traditional volume car market. Targeted market segments include construction, agricultural vehicles, marine, motorbikes and recreational vehicles. Customized for harsh environments, these connectors systems withstand the shock and vibration encountered in these challenging applications.
    FCI supplies high performance interconnect solutions featuring: - High performance terminal systems with best in class reliability - Interconnect solutions with superior sealing and harsh environmental performance - Easy-to-handle with integrated safety features
    Applications include harness sectioning solutions as well as innovative solutions for power train, safety and comfort electronics.
    Major product lines, including the well known DCS, APEX, Sicma mini sealed product families as well as CMC interconnects, range from miniaturized terminals to high power connectors.
    To know more about
     > Motorized Vehicle Market

  • FCI Introduces New Basics+ Design Service - 22/04/2009
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, in their continuing efforts to expand the service level of their Basics+ program, is now pleased to announce the launch of the Basics+ Design Service.
    The Basics+ design program enables customers to easily choose the standard board/wire/cable-to-board connection for their application. Many applications, however, also require something outside of the standard, albeit a small variation or a major modification. In those cases, the Basics+ Design Service is the perfect answer.
    The Basics+ Design Service is an easy-to-use web application. Customers make a selection from generic connector pictures then simply give details about their specific needs. Based on this input, FCI recommends either an existing part from their huge range of specials or suggests a new design. A drawing, price and sample, as applicable, are then quickly supplied to the customer.
    To know more about
     > Basics+

  • FCI Extends its D-sub High Density Press-fit Connector Range - 22/04/2009
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, has enlarged its high density Compact D series to 62 contact connectors in straight receptacle versions to meet the industry’s increasing need for higher density connectors and as a complement to its press-fit D-sub range in 78 contacts.
    Provided with press-fit terminations, this latest addition to FCI’s Compact D connector range also helps avoid the cost and time of an additional wave solder process. This connector is compatible with any PCB thickness starting from 1.6 mm, a great advantage for thick backplanes.
    The 62 contact receptacle connector occupies the same board space as 37 contact versions and is well suited to any telecom and industrial applications. FCI has the capability to support the 62 contact straight receptacles in press-fit versions with various mounting options including threaded inserts, receptacle screw locks and harpoons for grounding purpose. This Compact D connector range is available in tray packaging.
    To know more about
     > D-Subminiature

  • White Paper : Overcoming automotive high tech requirements through new interconnection systems - 22/04/2009
    FCI roadmap The number of features and functions of a modern car is constantly increasing. For years, gasoline consumption, environmental friendliness, comfort and passive safety have been the prime drivers of innovation by automobile manufacturers. This is rapidly changing, and now car manufacturers are also actively focusing on safety systems, hybrid vehicle power train and new bus structures. To rise to these new challenges, manufacturers of connectors have to strike an innovative chord. FCI, a leading manufacturer of connectors, offers a plethora of new technologies and processing methodologies in this area.
    New interface standard AK-2 An example of this is the interface technology AK-2, first introduced by FCI in 2004. It was the first airbag connector with 100% scooproof mating contact protection and an optimized interface for assembling pyrotechnic applications like airbags or belt pretensioners. From start, two requirements of the automobile manufacturers had to be met: secure assembly of the interface, and increased ergonomics during assembly. A typical step in car assembly is mating the connector into the retainer – the component accepting the connector in a one or multi-stage ignition mechanism for the airbag. For this step, the operatives in some assembly situations must be able to insert the connectors into the retainers more or less “blindly”. Because of the previous designs of the interface this often led to broken contact parts in the airbag modules. As, however, this was discovered only in subsequent electrical functional tests, these failures caused great efforts to remove the affected vehicles out of the production line for required repairs [...]
    To know more
    > Download the White Paper

  • FCI Expands Successful D-Sub Pin-in-Paste Product Portfolio - 21/04/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, has extended its reflow process-compatible D-Sub family of connectors by adding 37-position connectors to the existing range of right-angle version Pin-In-Paste connectors offered in 9 to 25 positions with through-hole technology. This product line will allow customers to reduce their total applied costs by replacing wave-soldering or press-fit operations without requiring a new PCB layout, as well as saving time with possible automatic placement. This makes the D-Sub Pin-In-Paste connector ideal for applications such as daughter boards in industrial and telecom applications. “The FCI D-Sub Pin-In-Paste technology provides many advantages over SMT,” said George Varghese, global product manager at FCI. “In line with customer expectations, the FCI D-Sub Pin-In-Paste connectors are more robust than SMT connectors due to throughhole technology. Moreover, moving from solder-to-board or press-fit processes is easy and fast with the D-Sub Pin-in-Paste connectors because no board layout redesign is required, while boards must be significantly modified to be compliant with SMT connectors.” The D-Sub Right Angle Pin-In-Paste range is offered in 9-, 15-, 25- and 37-way versions in two standard footprints: US style with 6.3mm standoff and Europe style with 7.2mm standoff. The connector’s specific weight balance ensures it will stay in its initial position as it is reflow-processed. The existing straight version of the FCI Delta D Pin-in-Paste range is offered in 9- to 50-way versions. The entire product line is available in a variety of packaging options compatible with existing customer processes: manual positioning, automatic pick-and-place with vacuum nozzle, or gripper. The Delta D Pin-In-Paste range meets the RoHS European Directive EU 2002/95/EC.
    To know more about
    > Pin-In-Paste Delta D Series connectors

  • BURNDY® products achieves Platinum Supplier status from Imark Group - 21/04/2009
    BURNDY® Products, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector solutions to the industrial, energy, application tooling and automotive industries, announces that it has achieve Platinum Supplier status from IMARK Group for 2008. This is the sixth consecutive year that BURNDY has been honored with this outstanding supplier designation. To achieve IMARK Platinum status, suppliers must complete 10 of 10 IMARK Gold criteria during the 2008 calendar year, or must, achieve IMARK Gold status and increase sales to each of 20 members by at least 10%. Only members to which suppliers have sold at least $1000 in 2008 are included in calculations.
    To know more about
    > Burndy® Products

  • BURNDY® products to feature grouding mix at Windpower 2009 conference and exhibition - 20/04/2009
    BURNDY® Products, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector solutions to the industrial, energy, and application tooling industries, will showcase its grounding products mix and Break Away HYLUG™ line of copper and aluminum compression terminals in booth #1008 at WINDPOWER 2009, from May 4th to the 7th, at McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, Illinois. The BURNDYWeld® exothermic grounding option provides a simple, portable, and efficient method of welding copper to copper and other various materials without the use of an external power source. The resulting connection is a fusion or molecular weld of virtually pure copper. The HYGROUND® irreversible compression grounding system is a safe, cost-effective and time-efficient grounding method. HYGROUND is a complete system consisting of connectors for cross grid connections, taps, splices, cable to ground rod, ground plates, and terminations. BURNDY®’s mechanical grounding and power connectors, ideal for direct burial applications in earth or embedment in concrete, are made of high copper content alloys and use a nut and bolt design to provide the means for connecting copper cable. To ensure maximum performance under the most extreme environmental conditions, BURNDY® Products uses only the finest high copper alloys. In addition to the grounding mix, BURNDY®’s Break-Away HYLUG™ line of copper and aluminum compression terminals (types YBA, YBA-FX and YBA-A) provide maximum field flexibility by allowing the installer to easily convert a two-hole terminal to a one-hole terminal to suit the application. With a slotted second stud, the Break-Away line of terminals can conform to various bus bar dimensions. For additional flexibility, the Narrow Tongue design allows the terminal to fit into tight spaces.
    To know more about
    > Burndy® Products

  • FCI Expands D-Sub Series with Economy Range for PCB Applications - 20/04/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, has expanded its D-Sub Series with the new Economy Range of connectors. The new series addresses the growing number of applications where fewer mating cycles are required, such as set-top boxes, control devices and energy meters. “With this addition, FCI now offers one of the largest D-Sub portfolios available on the market,” said George Varghese, global product manager at FCI. “The new Economy Range is designed for less demanding applications, where high mating and unmating cycles are not needed.” The traditional Delta D range is widely recognized as being robust, with high plating performance and 500 mating cycles. These connectors are specified for telecommunication and medical markets. The new solder-to-board Economy Range is designed to handle a minimum of 50 mating and unmating cycles, making it ideal for use in environments such as PCB and indoor applications with an operating temperature of -20ºC to +105ºC. The economical D-Sub series is available in standard density from 9 to 37 positions, in straight and right-angle versions. Right-angle versions are available in two standard footprints: US footprint of 2.84mm with a connector height of 6.3 mm and European footprint of 2.54mm with a connector height of 7.2mm. The new connector range can generate 20% to 30% in savings compared with the traditional D-Sub product ranges. Design-ins are simplified by 24-hour sample shipment, online drawings and specifications, and short lead times.
    To know more about
    > FCI’s D-Sub Economy Range connectors

  • BURNDY® product offers Hydent™ Uninsulated ferrules - 17/04/2009
    BURNDY® Products, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector solutions to the industrial, energy, application tooling and automotive industries, introduces their new HYDENT™ Uninsulated, Bare Ferrule line of products. Bare ferrules, also known as bootlace ferrules or cord end terminals, are manufactured from electrolytic copper, tin plated, and used to terminate stranded wires to form neat end terminations. Additionally, HYDENT Ferrules assist in terminating extra flexible fine stranded conductor while bringing enhanced flexibility to wire termination and management. The Ferrules'' positive contact surface helps insure system integrity. They also feature a seamless barrel with smooth funnel entry to make wire insertion easier, and they are RoHS compliant. Installation tooling for this line includes 4 tools with ergonomic handles, a full cycle ratchet with release mechanism, and a trapezoidal crimp profile. Lightweight and easy to use, these tools help ease installer fatigue.
    To know more about
    > Burndy® Products

  • BURNDY® products introduces the Smart Cart, a mobile storage and access cart for electricians - 10/04/2009
    BURNDY® Products, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector solutions to the industrial, energy, application tooling and automotive industries, introduces the Smart Cart™, the Wire Management System that allows electricians to inventory, transport and pull wire on a spool carriers with a unique caddie design. The Smart Cart™ is also designed to carry virtually everything an electrician needs to perform his job. It features two locations specifically designed for holding conduit benders, and has a built-in tray between the wheels for storage of fish tape and wire lube. With its pre-punched base plate, The Smart Caddy allows for easy mounting of an extension base plate to accommodate additional storage which doubles as a wire guide for pulling wire.
    To know more about
    > FCI Burndy® Smart Cart

  • FCI to License Outdoor PushPull I/O Connector Solutions from HARTING - 07/04/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, has reached an agreement with HARTING to become a certified second source for its Outdoor PushPull I/O connector family. The outdoor I/O product family is the industry’s highest-density, field-installable IP 67 solution for fiber, power and copper signal connections. “The innovative push-pull design provides the end user with a cost-effective product,” said Grace Showers, global product marketing manager at FCI. “FCI and HARTING will be certified second sources for the outdoor I/O product which will assure electrical and mechanical compatibility, as well as continuity of supply for this emerging standardized I/O solution.” The outdoor I/O design will eliminate the need to inventory costly cable assemblies. These rugged, field-installable solutions are an excellent choice for 3G-WiMax, LTE base stations, other wireless broadband equipment, as well as other outdoor applications.
    To know more about
    > FCI’s Outdoor PushPull I/O connectors

  • FCI’s Rib-Cage™ Connector Passes Shock-and-Vibration Testing - 23/03/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, recently announced that its Rib-Cage™1.27mm pitch connectors have passed stringent shock-and-vibration testing per MIL-STD-202 Method 204 and -IEC 60512 Test 8d. The Rib-Cage mating interface, long distinguished by its special multi-point, gold-plated receptacle design, provides optimal reliability in high vibration and shock-prone applications, such as those in the industrial, instrumental, military and medical markets. Rib-Cage has served hundreds of applications ranging from disk drives to industrial weight and measurement. Rib-Cage’s reliability has provided years of extended service in extreme applications such as locomotive and outdoor communications. “Recent shock and vibration testing now certifies what FCI has known for many years: Rib-Cage connectors are perfect for applications on the edge, for customers who expect their electronic equipment to perform under duress,” said David Hansen, FCI global product marketing manager. Rib-Cage is part of FCI’s MezzSelect™ family of mezzanine connectors. It is a highdensity, 1.27mm (0.05 in.) pitch, two-row mezzanine, surface-mount, board-to-board connector system that supports three PCB stack heights and offers additional options for right-angle mounting. It has a 1.0 amp current rating and is ideal for connecting to flexible and rigid circuits. Rib-Cage connectors feature high 200-cycle durability that sustains reliable mating and unmating. They have low mating force for easy use, and high un-mating force for connection security. Housing polarization prevents mis-mating. Various position, attachment and packaging options are available to support customers’ specific PCB requirements. FCI supports ten connector sizes between 10 and 100 positions. Rib-Cage is priced competitively to support commercial applications, such as portable devices, POS retail, motor vehicle, test, security and access control, sub-assemblies with motors, and diagnostic applications. Typical pricing for Rib-Cage connectors is $.04 in quantities of 1000 pieces. Lead time is from stock to four weeks and they are widely available through FCI’s global distribution network.
    To know more about
    > Rib-Cage™

  • FCI participates in RFID World Asia 2009 - 20/03/2009
    JOIN US AT RFID ASIA 2009 to discover FCI Microconnnections range of - Smart Security, - Asset Tracking and - Consumer Flexible circuits products Practical information Suntec City, Hall 401 - 404 / Booth 4P07 April 22-24, 2009 > Register online

  • FCI Present at ICTF 2009 - Shanghaï, March 17 - 09/03/2009
    We are pleased to announce that FCI is participating in the "4th International Connector Technology Forum (ICTF) 2009". It will be held on March 17th, 2009 at Shanghai New International Exhibition Center. Our AP Senior Regional BDM of Communications market, Francis Lo will be the speaker to present, "FCI AirMax VS® and ZipLine(TM) connectors transmit error-free 40Gb/s data". The forum will be held in-conjunction with Electronica & Productronica China 2009 exhibition (March 17-19, 2009). We would like to invite you to attend this forum. If you are interested, please register online at
    http://www.eepw.com.cn/event/topic/2009h/connector.htm
    To register online
    > ICTF

  • HDMI™ licensing organization adds FCI vertical HDMI connectors to approved connector list - 09/03/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces that it has successfully passed all qualifications required by the HDMI licensing organization for its recently released vertical HDMI connector. As a result, the connector has now been added to FCI’s roster of HDMI-approved connectors, which are ideal for consumer electronic products such as digital televisions, DVD players and set-top boxes. FCI’s right-angle version of the HDMI connector had already been approved and offers a much lower profile than others available on the market. “Adding a vertical connector to the product offering completes the HDMI board connector portfolio of FCI,” said Jennifer Zhang, global product marketing manager at FCI. “Both versions have received qualifications from leading OEMs in the consumer market and offer design engineers a smaller, more user-friendly solution.” FCI’s vertical HDMI connector is one of the few that feature a dual-shell design, which helps reduce the risk of EMI leakage. Two additional ground pins further improve EMI performance. The HDMI connectors feature a larger-than-average outer shell design that offers robustness that greatly reduces the risk of deformation during transport, installation and application. A large-area cover allows for easy application in automated pick-and-place processes. The overall profile of the connector has been kept to a minimum, which allows OEMs to minimize space consumption on the printed circuit board.
    To know more about
    > HDMI Connectors

  • FCI Simplifies Backplane Connector Product Selection - 26/02/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces a new, dedicated, backplane products microsite on its web site that provides design engineers with a singular source to FCI’s full line of backplane connectors. “The microsites we’ve previously launched have generated such a positive response from our customers that our goal is to make our entire product portfolio accessible in 10 or less dedicated microsites,” said Bavo Teunissen, global marketing communications director for FCI. “It makes it extremely easy for design engineers to find the product required for their specific design by simplifying access to product solutions as well as 3D-models, customer drawings, mating half information, datasheets, product specifications and other productrelated information. The backplane microsite includes a full overview of FCI’s backplane offerings, including high-speed and orthogonal products like Metral® High Speed, AirMax VS® and Zipline™ products. The microsite also provides product information about the industry-standard 2.00mm product families like Metral, also known as Futurebus, and Millipacs® connectors. .” The still-popular 2.54mm-pitch DIN41612 product family completes the wide spectrum of backplane products offered by FCI that are now bundled into this dedicated microsite.
    To know more about
    > Backpanel

  • FCI’s DIN 41612 Landing Page Provides Simplified Access to Product Information - 17/02/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces a new, dedicated, DIN 41612 landing page on its web site that provides more detailed information on the 2.54mm backplane interconnect range of products for board-to-board and cable-to-board applications. “In today’s market it’s important to offer tools that enable customers to easily access standard as well customized product solutions,” said Koos Steding, global product marketing manager for FCI. “We’ve developed the DIN41612 landing page to be a single dashboard for all of FCI’s DIN41612 products to ensure those customers needs are met.” The newly designed landing page can be found at www.fci.com/DIN41612. The portal simplifies access to product solutions and provides downloadable product brochures and catalogs, customer drawings and specifications, electrical models and other useful links. In conjunction with the launch of the landing page, a new DIN41612 brochure is now available for customers. The brochure provides core information on an extensive range of PCB signal connectors, PCB power connectors and IDC cable solutions to support virtually any board-to-board or cable-to-board application.
    To know more about
    > DIN 41612

  • BURNDY® Products offers uninversal grade cable ties - 10/02/2009
    BURNDY® Products is pleased to announce an addition to their cable tie line. The CT-UG version cable ties are Universal Grade, one-piece, injection-molded ties providing maximum strength and adjustability to secure many sizes of bundles. These cable ties are suited for production line use at OEMs or other high-volume purchasers of cable ties. The ties offer high tensile strength and are chemically resistant to solvents, alkalies, oils, grease and diluted acids. Rounded edges and a bent-tip make installation easy, fast, accurate and secure, they also offer a self-locking mechanism and secure without twisting or leaving sharp projections.
    To know more about
    > Burndy® Products

  • BURNDY® Products Offers 145PTAG - 10/02/2009
    BURNDY® Products is pleased to introduce their new 145PTAG. This new tag has been specifically designed with the Telecom, Transportation and OEM Markets in mind. Manufactured from Flame Retardant Nylon with a 94V0 rating, the tag is durable, non-flammable and can be secured to cabling in many different methods (cable ties, multi-ply cord, waxed cord or some other equivalent). The tags typically are used by applying a label or can be manually stenciled using a permanent marker on both sides marking the field far end termination information, panel identification, voice and data identification or other wire or cable information.
    To know more about
    > Burndy® Products

  • BURNDY® Products offers Hydent™ Heat Shrink Terminals - 09/02/2009
    BURNDY® Products is pleased to introduce their new HYDENT™ Heat Shrink Terminal line of product. When using standard crimp terminals the wire is left exposed to moisture or other contaminants which can result in corrosion. The corrosion reduces the amount of current the wire is able to carry safely. Utilizing Heat Shrink Terminals protects the terminal and exposed wire by covering with a multi-wall heat-shrinkable tubing providing an integral meltable inner wall. After cooling, the install heat shrink provides a durable, protective, insulating barrier that is highly resistant to penetration. The tubing also allows for visual inspection of the wire insertion and color-coding tubing is imprinted with the wire size to provide easy identification.
    To know more about
    > Burndy® Products

  • FCI’s High-Speed I/O Landing Page Provides All-in-One Design Resource For Engineers - 05/02/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, has launched a dedicated high-speed I/O landing page located at www.fci.com/hsio to provide design engineers with a singular resource for FCI’s full line of high-speed I/O products. “FCI continues to address the market’s ever-increasing need for cost-effective high-speed and high-density cable assemblies that offer standard interfaces to address applicationspecific solutions,” said Jim David, global high-speed I/O market manager. “Customers have acknowledged FCI’s expertise in delivering high-speed and high-density solutions, and the high-speed I/O landing page will simplify the customer’s ability to access highly useable technical and design information.” The high-speed I/O landing page includes the mini-multilane SAS/SATA products that address the SFF-8086 and SFF-8088 market standards as well as the EyeMax® family of products that meet the 10GBase-CX4 Ethernet, Infiniband®, SFF-8470, Multilane SAS/SATA and Fibre Channel industry specifications. In addition, the new landing page features the DensiShield™ high-density/high-speed solution that has demonstrated performance to the CX4 and Infiniband® industry standards and achieves 10Gb/s per channel performance compliant with IEEE802.3ap criteria. The landing page provides simplified access to 3D models, signal integrity models, data sheets, product prints, product and application specifications, as well as a complete product presentation providing significant details on FCI’s complete line of high-speed I/O products.
    To know more about
    > High-speed I/O

  • FCI’s New Mini-SAS and Mini-SATA External Cable Assemblies Support Increased Signal Speeds - 04/02/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems has developed external Mini-Multilane SAS/SATA I/O cable assemblies to address the storage industry’s demand for more compact, high-speed serial I/O interfaces that also support evolving signal speed requirements. These assemblies offer the advantages of increased port density along a card edge and a shorter external-plug profile that reduces cable bend clearance requirements in comparison to Multilane SAS/SATA cable links per SFF-8470. FCI’s 26-position, mini-multilane external cable assemblies enable Mini-SAS or Mini-SATA 4x external cable links. These cable assemblies provide high-speed serial interfaces that are capable of meeting today’s requirements for 1.5Gb/s per channel and up to 6.0Gb/s per channel, as well as future bandwidth demands. FCI’s cable assemblies meet Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) or Serial ATA (SATA) requirements for mini-multilane external cables thus assuring plug compatibility with standardized port interfaces. Specifically, FCI’s mini-multilane solutions satisfy the applicable requirements of the INCITS T10 SAS 1.1 or the SATA-IO Serial ATA specifications and conform to the mechanical requirements described in the associated SFF-8086 and SFF-8088 documents. The availability of both mini-SAS and mini-SATA keying slot configurations give the user the option to choose the appropriate link for their respective applications. “FCI continues to meet the market’s need for cost-effective, high-speed and high-density cable assemblies that offer standard interfaces for application-specific solutions,” said Jim David, global high-speed I/O market manager, FCI. The cable assemblies utilize a highly engineered paddle card, which is designed to address stringent mechanical interface and signal integrity requirements. In addition, highly controlled and stable cable assembly manufacturing processes minimize variations that impact performance. Robust final test and quality systems assure conformance to the high-speed electrical performance requirements in industry specifications.
    To know more about
    > Mini-SAS/SATA cable assemblies in external storage applications

  • FCI moves to #5 on industrial component & fixtures scorecard - 04/02/2009
    BURNDY® Products, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector solutions to the industrial, energy, and application tooling industries, announces that its parent company, FCI, has risen to #5 on The Patent Board™, Industrial Components & Fixtures’ Patent Scorecard. The Patent Board is the world''''''''s leading business-based patent advisor to Fortune 500 companies, technology-based start-ups, law firms, investment banks and governments. The Patent Board tracks and analyzes innovation, movement and business impact of patent assets across 17 industries on a global basis. Moving up from its previous rank at #9, FCI maintains an even stronger hold in the Scorecard''''''''s top ten. According to The Patent Board, FCI had an 84% increase in Research Intensity™, as well as a 29% increase in Industry Impact™ and a 5% increase in patents granted to propel them up four positions to rank 5th overall. FCI was granted 83 patents in 2008.
    To know more about
    > Burndy® Products

  • FCI Extends the ZipLine™ Connector System To Coplanar Applications - 04/02/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, is expanding the application range of its popular high-density, highperformance ZipLine™connector system with the addition of a right-angle signal header module. Designed to mate with an existing right-angle signal receptacle module, the new header module provides 216 individual contacts and enables 72 high-speed differential connections between coplanar circuit boards. Complementary high-power modules and guidance modules are also available. “The ZipLine™ connector system already offered support for backplane and orthogonal midplane applications, but system designers also saw a need for high-density, high-speed connections to coplanar add-on cards used for system upgrades, memory expansion and test,” said Jeff O’Brien, global product marketing manager. “By adding support for coplanar applications, FCI continues to enhance the product portfolio in response to the diversified needs of customers.” Samples of the right-angle header for coplanar applications will be available midway through the second quarter of 2009. The ZipLine™ connectors are the highest-density, press-fit connectors available and address the need for greater signal density in next-generation equipment platforms. The connectors provide 6 high-speed differential signal pairs per column on 1.8mm column pitch to deliver 84.6 differential pairs per inch of card edge. The compact module size allows for a minimum 1-inch card slot pitch and helps system designers address mechanical and thermal concerns. ZipLine™ connectors use FCI’s proven shield-less technology to deliver low insertion loss and crosstalk without using costly and space-consuming metal shields. Data rates can scale up to 12.5 Gb/s without requiring the redesign of a basic platform. In addition to offering superior signal density and electrical performance, the versatile ZipLine™ design allows for mixed differential, single-ended or power pin assignments within a connector. The ZipLine™ connector system has been chosen as a finalist for the 2009 DesignVision Award in the Interconnect Technologies and Components category. The winner will be announced at the upcoming DesignCon exhibition on February 3-4 in Santa Clara, California.
    To know more about
    > ZipLine™

  • BURNDY® Products to feature grounding at Ace Hardware 2009 in Las Vegas. - 26/01/2009
    BURNDY® Products, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector solutions to the industrial, energy, and application tooling industries, will showcase its grounding products in booth #2185 at the ACE Hardware Spring 2009 Convention and Exposition from March 4th to the 6th at the Mandalay Bay Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada. The company’s mechanical grounding and power connectors, ideal for direct burial applications in earth or embedment in concrete, are made of high copper content alloys and use a nut and bolt design to provide the means for connecting copper cable. To ensure maximum performance under the most extreme environmental conditions, FCI uses only the finest high copper alloys. Over 80 years of technological innovations make BURNDY®’s mechanical grounding and power connectors one of the most widely used, specified and highly respected lines in the industry. All BURNDY®’s mechanical grounding connectors are designed for easy installation and outstanding durability.
    To know more about
    > BURNDY® products

  • BURNDY® Products offers type VG vise-type connectors for copper applications - 21/01/2009
    BURNDY® Products is pleased to announce the availability of its TYPE VG copper vise-type connectors. Ideal for copper power and grounding applications, these connectors are easy to install, will not swivel and feature a copper alloy body design that provides strength and corrosion resistance. For maximum stability, they are designed so that the interlocking components of the connector will not rotate out of the body. BURNDY® Products VG connectors allow for single tool installation, so that installers can keep one hand free to hold conductors. They have a compact profile after installation, facilitating taping and alignment with conductors. These connectors can accommodate a wide range of conductors, minimizing the number of connectors required. With side installation capability, they can eliminate the need for separate pieces during installation.
    To know more about
    > BURNDY® products

  • BURNDY® Products comes to the rescue helping utilities restor power to new Hampshire communities after ice storm - 21/01/2009
    BURNDY® PRODUCTS of Manchester, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector solutions to the industrial, energy, application tooling and automotive industries, manufactured 1,100 aluminum distribution splices in just two days, helping utility companies restore power statewide to New Hampshire after the recent ice storm. The 1,100 splices represent a normal 4-month supply for utility companies. The splicers are essential for reconnecting downed or damaged power lines to homes and commercial buildings. "We were able to work with our distribution folks in Londonderry and our manufacturing facility in Lincoln and were able to turn that around in two days to meet the state''s needs." said Chris Chadbourne, BURNDY director of engineering, product management and business development for utility products. "Dennis Morrissette, the senior floor supervisor at the Lincoln facility, and his team were instrumental in getting the order turned around so quickly." The majority of the splicers went to National Grid, while others went to NStar and some to municipalities.
    To know more about
    > BURNDY® products

  • FCI’s New High-Speed Connector Microsite simplifies Design and Specification - 14/01/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces a new, dedicated, high-speed connectors microsite with a core product selector to help simplify specification of the industry’s most complete highspeed connectors and interconnect solutions. “In today’s economy, it is important to provide resources that enable customers to easily access specific product solutions,” said Glenn Havener, global product marketing director, high-speed products. “We’ve developed the micro site to be a single dashboard for all FCI’s high-speed products and we feel this tool will be of great value to our customers.” The newly designed microsite can be found at www.fci.com/highspeed. The micro site’s core product selector tool simplifies access to product solutions and provides access to downloadable technical papers, test reports, 3D images, links for datasheets and brochures. The high-speed micro site includes backplane, orthogonal, I/O and mezzanine connectors. Some of FCI’s leading-edge products are featured on this micro site including ZipLine®, Airmax VS®, Meg-Array® and Gig-Array® connectors. FCI has pioneered high-speed backplane connectors, first with the introduction of the Metral® HS product families, followed by the shieldless technology of Airmax VS® connectors and the recent introduction of the ZipLine® product family. FCI currently provides full signal integrity support as part of its latest collection of products. This allows customers to improve their time-to-market and product performance. Over the last year, the company has developed several microsites to provide more personalized customer service to customers and design engineers. The newly designed microsite will include a New Developments section that will provide customers with the opportunity to review information about upcoming products.
    To know more about
    > High Speed

  • Pierre Vareille is appointed Chairman and CEO of FCI - 09/01/2009
    Pierre Vareille, 51, graduated from the Ecole Centrale de Paris, a French engineering school. He also holds various degrees in Politic Science, Economics (Sorbonne University) and Finance. He worked for 13 years in the Vallourec Group where he started as an engineer and then held various positions in controlling, sales and strategy before being appointed CEO of several subsidiaries. In 1995, he became CEO of GFI Aerospace (now LISI Aerospace). He joined Faurecia in 2000 as a member of the Executive Committee and CEO of the Exhaust Systems Business Group. In 2002, Pierre Vareille joined Pechiney as a member of the Executive Committee, Director of the Aluminium Conversion sector and CEO of Rhenalu. In 2004, he became Chief Executive of Wagon Automotive, before being appointed Chief Operating Officer of FCI in December 2007. As of January 1, 2009, Pierre Vareille is Chairman and CEO of FCI.

  • FCI acquires IMPLO Technologies, Inc. - 08/01/2009
    FCI, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector and tooling solutions to the industrial, telecom, and energy industries, has acquired IMPLO Technologies, Inc. (www.implotech.ca), a leader in the field of implosive connector products for the Utility market, based in Markham, Ontario. This acquisition will allow FCI to leverage the technology developed by IMPLO to complement the full line of products the company offers to address Transmission interconnect applications. The increasing acceptance of implosive technology as a means for the installation of transmission connectors for the Utility marketplace is the result of intensive research & development coupled with successful testing and field installations. The result is a high quality, long lasting connection synonymous with that of the BURNDY® Transmission portfolio of products. The family of IMPLO products is a strong complement to FCI’s extensive transmission product portfolio, which has been instrumental in the transmission of electrical power in locations throughout the world. “This acquisition will make a solid long-term strategic contribution to FCI’s growing portfolio of quality connection systems with a focus on high voltage splicing and connection technology for Utility Transmission systems,” said Rodd Ruland, Corporate Vice President and General Manager of FCI – Electrical Division (BURNDY® Products). “We are encouraged by the technology we are getting as part of this move and the customer base that IMPLO has developed. We look forward to expanding the scope of design wins with utilities given our strong presence in the marketplace as a result.” “The agreement with FCI is an important step forward and gives significant marketplace exposure to the technologies developed by IMPLO,” noted Ciro Pasini, Founder and President of IMPLO Technologies, Inc. “Since the BURNDY® brand is well recognized and respected, I chose to become part of FCI to improve our ability to meet customer needs and develop new products while keeping the IMPLO entrepreneurial spirit and tradition of excellence in products and services for which we are known.”

  • FCI’s DensiShield™ High-Speed I/O Links Demonstrate 10Gb/s Per Channel Performance - 07/01/2009
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems has developed the DensiShield™, a high-speed copper I/O solution. It has demonstrated 10Gb/s per channel differential performance using common wire gauges in cable lengths up to 10 meters. The existing DensiShield system supplies 4-channel capability and consequently delivers an aggregate bandwidth of 40 Gb/s. The DensiShield test set up features Broadcom BCM8072 dual-channel transceivers compliant to the IEEE802.3ap test criterion. The 10Gb/s per channel differential performance can be achieved at 6 meters or less by utilizing 30 AWG cable, at 8 meters or less by utilizing 28 AWG cable and 10 meters or less by utilizing 26 AWG cable. In addition to the 10Gb/s performance, the DensiShield high-density/speed solution has demonstrated performance meeting both the 10GBase-CX4 Ethernet and Infiniband® industry standards. The DensiShield system is also able to accommodate card slot pitch as low as 15mm and achieve a port-to-port centerline of 12.5mm along a card edge. FCI also offers a DensiShield header that fits within the uTCA defined packaging profile. “The DensiShield I/O system meets the emerging market requirements for 10Gb/s per channel performance at cable lengths typically required for within-rack or rack-to-rack cabling applications,” said Jim David, global high-speed I/O market manager. “Customers have acknowledged FCI’s expertise in delivering high-speed and high-density solutions that support the markets ever increasing needs for 10Gb/s per channel and greater performance along with minimum 40Gb/s aggregate bandwidth.” For more information on how FCI''s DensiShield high-speed I/O solutions can satisfy specific application requirements, visit www.fci.com/densishield. The DensiShield™ high-speed I/O dedicated landing page simplifies access to 3D models, signal integrity models, data sheets, product prints, product and application specifications as well as a complete product presentation providing significant detail on FCI’s complete line of high-speed I/O products.
    To know more about
    > DensiShield™ I/O System

  • BURNDY® products introduces the ENFORCER™ Hydraulic Impact Wrench - 05/01/2009
    BURNDY® Products introduces its new ENFORCER™ hydraulic impact wrench, the latest addition to the BURNDY Products tooling family. The ENFORCER wrench, model HIW716ENF, is the lightest and strongest 7/16” hydraulic impact wrench on the market. This powerful wrench simplifies and expedites hole drilling or hardware tightening and loosening with its unsurpassed 515 ft-lbs of output torque. The superior strength machined aluminum provides users with the lightest wrench in its class. BURNDY Products Tooling Product Manager, Rick Robicheau points out, “We are pleased to provide contractors with an impact wrench that provides over 500 ft-lbs of torque, yet weighs less than 6 lbs. I believe our customers will appreciate the attention to detail in this new wrench.” The HIW716ENF comes with a 7/16” Tri-ball quick chuck with a wide flange that provides a secure hold on all standard 7/16” hex drive bits and accessories. This tool’s industry-exclusive, adjustable torque selector spool allows users to choose between a low setting and a high setting of torque. The tool also features the ability to “feather” up gradually to a desired torque level. A dual-acting spool gives users the choice of using the HIW716ENF on Open or Closed center operating circuits.
    To know more about
    > BURNDY® products

  • BURNDY® Products announces GAR Mechanical Grounding Connectors are now UL listed and CSA Certified for use on reinforcement BAR (REBAR) - 05/01/2009
    BURNDY® Products is pleased to announce that the eight most popular sizes of the GAR Mechanical Grounding Connectors are now UL467 Listed and CSA Certified for wire to rebar applications. The GAR Mechanical Grounding Connectors are also acceptable for direct burial in earth or concrete. BURNDY''s GAR Grounding Connectors are ideal for joining a range of cable, parallel or at right angles to pipe, rod, tube, fence posts, and rebar. The GAR Connectors feature a high copper alloy cast body with DURIUM™ U-bolts, nuts and lockwashers, allowing an entire connection to be buried in ground or concrete without danger of corrosion.
    To know more about
    > BURNDY® products

  • BURNDY® Products obtains IDW Data Audit Certification - 02/01/2009
    BURNDY® Products is pleased to announce it has met all requirements of the Industry Data Warehouse (IDW) Data Audit Certification (DAC) program. The certification program from IDEA, a standard-setting organization that offers a full range of eCommerce products and services, ensures manufacturers data housed in their Industry Data Warehouse is clean and error free. With the DAC Certification, BURNDY has the ability to increase sales and enhance customer relationships through flawless purchase-to-payment transactions. The DAC program measures manufacturer data against industry standards, best practices and IDEA’s recommendations for data quality & synchronization. Manufacturer data is measured in three forms: • Detailed, automatic measurement via IDW inbound scrubbing & messaging • Annual review of data with recommendations • On-demand IDW reports (e.g. Data Load Summary and Error Status Report) For BURNDY customers, the DAC Certification provides the assurance they are associated with a manufacturer that is committed to providing the most accurate, current, and up-to-date information.

  • BURNDY® products introduces the PATRIOT® PATMD6-14V IN-LINE® Series of tools - 02/01/2009
    BURNDY® Products, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector solutions to the industrial, energy, application tooling and automotive industries, will showcase its PATRIOT® IN-LINE® PATMD6-14V hydraulic crimping tool in booths #414 and #1018 at the Utility Products Conference and Exposition, from February 3-5, 2009 in San Diego, Calif. With more crimps per charge, ergonomic design, and a 14.4V Nickel Metal-Hydride (Ni-MH) battery, the PATMD6-14V tool is your crimping solution. Offering trouble-free operation, the BURNDY® IN-LINE® PATMD6-14V tool incorporates a high speed hydraulic pump generating 6 tons of crimping force. The battery actuated hydraulic crimper provides a consistent, reliable connection on a range of copper and aluminum terminals and splices, overhead taps, full tension splices and dead ends. Its high-capacity, Ni-MH battery eliminates voltage depression, maximizing the number of crimps per charge. The BURNDY® IN-LINE® PATMD6-14V tools feature a 350º rotate able head for operation in virtually any position. The BURNDY® IN-LINE® PATMD6-14V tool features interchangeable MD6 series jaws capable of using “W” and “X” style dies in the permanent D3 crimping groove. The tool’s audible “pop-off” crimp indicator provides a consistent, reliable connection every time. The BURNDY® IN-LINE® PATMD6-14V tool is supplied with a durable high-impact formed carrying case, battery charger and two high capacity 14.4 volt 2.6 AH batteries. Each BURNDY® IN-LINE® PATMD6-14V crimping tool uses standard BURNDY® dies and off-the-shelf BURNDY® connectors available worldwide, and comes with a three year limited warranty on the tool and a lifetime warranty on the INFINITY DRIVE™. To discover our new BURNDY® IN-LINE® PATMD6-14V tool , Visit us at:
    Utility Products Conference and Exposition February 3-5, 2009 in San Diego, California. Booths # 414 and #1018
    To know more about
    > BURNDY® products

  • FCI Recognized for Excellence with Award from Huawei - 17/11/2008
    FCI, a leading manufacturer of connectors and interconnect systems, was named by Huawei as the 2008 Excellent Core Partner award recipient. Huawei is a world-leading telecom solutions provider focused on building longterm partnerships with telecom operators. Pierre Vareille, COO of FCI and Pete Curwen (VP & GM FCI Electronics Division), accepted the award on behalf of FCI at the 2008 Global Core Partner Convention in Bantian, China, in early November. Huawei recognized the connector supplier for its successful relationship with FCI’s multilevel and multi-functional team. Huawei and FCI collaborated on several projects in the past year including the development of a 10Gb/ps backplane connector using FCI’s popular Airmax technology. The success of this project resulted in widespread use of Airmax in Huawei equipment. Using more than 20 connectors from FCI’s recently developed ZipLine high-density product line on one backplane, Huawei was able to complete a reliability assessment on daughter card connectors with increased insertion force. Other projects included the development of E1/T1 and VDSL I/O connectors and a fiberoptic backplane connector.

  • FCI’s ZipLine™ High Density, High Speed Connector System Now Available in High Volumes - 12/11/2008
    FCI’s new ZipLine™ connector system, the industry’s highest density high speed connector, is available in production quantities ahead of schedule. Responding to greater than expected customer demand for increased signal density, FCI offers ZipLine connectors in orthogonal and backpanel configurations and corresponding power connectors for high volume applications. With transmission speeds up to 12.5Gb/s and density up to 101 signal pairs per linear inch at 1.5mm column pitch, the ZipLine connector system is the industry’s highest connector available with press fit termination. “In less than a year, we have seen wide acceptance of ZipLine, primarily due to the need for greater density. This has allowed FCI to bring ZipLine to production quantities sooner than anticipated,” said Jeff O’Brien, Global Product Manager, FCI. ZipLine is built upon FCI’s proven AirMax VS® technology and offers similar signal integrity performance. Like AirMax VS®, the ZipLine connector system uses edge-coupling technology to deliver high signal density with low insertion loss and low crosstalk, all without the use of costly and space-consuming metal shields. Data rates can scale up to 12.5Gb/s without requiring re-design of a basic platform. ZipLine offers flexible pin configurations with the greatest signal density in all three dimensions to address mechanical and thermal concerns for system designers. In addition to superior electrical performance and signal density, ZipLine™ offers a high degree of design versatility. Standard orthogonal, backpanel, and power components can be configured in many ways to satisfy unique application requirements without the need for new tooling or long lead times. The system also uses hard metric design practice and can be placed next to FCI product families including AirMax VS® signal, power and guides and FCI new HCI power connectors.
    To know more about
     > ZipLine™

  • FCI, TOP 100 Companies in Dongguan participated in 3C Expo 2008 - 07/11/2008
    FCI was nominated as one of the TOP 100 companies in Dongguan and the only one in Shatian town that received this recognition. Shatian government was very happy for FCI Dongguan and sponsored our participation in 3C Expo 2008 (10th Dongguan International Computer Communication & Consumer Electronic Products Exposition). The exhibition was held from Oct 20 to Oct 22, 2008 at Dongguan International Conference & Exhibition Centre. At our booth, we showcased product families such as AirMax, PwrBlade, MezzSelect and cable assemblies. Other FCI product offerings were also displayed on exhibition panels to show the visitors our broad range of connectors. A new panel was specially designed to illustrate the production capabilities of FCI Dongguan.

  • FCI unveils ground-breaking high power connector designs for Electric Vehicles(EV)and Hybrid-Electric Vehicles (HEV) - 06/11/2008
    For the first time at Electronica Show in Munich, FCI will unveil several innovative high power connector solutions developed to face the booming demand of high performance from virtually all Automotive OEM worldwide and starting with Electric Vehicle (EV) and Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) programs scheduled for launch in 2010/11. Building on FCI Motorized Vehicle (MVL) division’s expertise in the automotive sector, the new RCS and APEX high power connector ranges do incorporate a series of ground-breaking features that reflect the unique challenges presented by EV and HEV applications. In developing APEX and RCS High Power connector families, FCI succeeds to introduce almost simultaneously two very innovative terminal technologies: Apex® 950, benefiting from FCI’s unique Apex cost effective design to reach current carrying capacity up to 150A, and new RCS-800 terminals featuring a novel 8 mm round pin design that facilitates more efficient use of space than an equivalent square terminal. These round RCS terminals also provide a high number of contact points and can operate up to 250A and above, depending on exact customer’s specification. Moreover, special surface platings have been employed to protect against the possibility of surface damage caused by arcing. The housing developed for high power interconnections is equally innovative. The incorporation of a unique, 2-step mating process guarantees the connectors cannot be disconnected while high currents are applied. Two separate movements are required of the user, and there is a three second delay between the power being cut off and connector being free for release. This novel safety device is supplemented by a number of other features drawn from FCI’s extensive portfolio of automotive connector housing solutions. The terminals are encased in a plastic protective grid that physically prevents them being touched. FCI’s solution does feature an “interlock” device too ensuring that there is no risk of unmating during load. Additionally, the company’s ErgoMate axial mating system helps achieving a lower profile solution while reducing both mating forces and chance of mis-mating. Last but not least, high levels of shielding and sealing are employed to offer best-in-class interconnect solutions for EV and HEV. FCI MVL division is equally committed to an ‘open tool’ philosophy - with the APEX and RCS solutions, the company has taken a modular approach, ensuring optimum flexibility to match specific application requirements. As a result, tailor made solutions can be implemented within the tightest possible time-to-market parameters, and at the lowest possible cost.

  • FCI’s MCC modular concept – the universally adaptable connector - 06/11/2008
    The Modular Connector Concept (MCC) by FCI has already gained a reputation on the automotive market as an interface to the AK-2 airbag interconnection system but the very concept of MCC offers much more perspective, giving FCI a tremendous competitive edge. In the current business environment the motivation for OEM’s to reduce cost is most likely to lead to an accelerated transition to MCC. It indeed brings major benefits to the market and is already gaining strong acceptance. MCC offers a robust, compact and flexible design that is compliant with all major standard OEM interfaces (FCI, AK-1, AK-2, J-AK) for pyrotechnical applications. MCC solves assembly risks at OEM & Tier 1’s due to fool proof mating design known as AK@ scoop proof, and, MCC benefits from a highly efficient and flexible manufacturing process based on modularity. Most and foremost, MCC’s definite asset lies in its handling friendliness which considerably reduces costly quality issues for customers, as its modular design enable ‘easy’ adaptation to various interface. FCI Motorized Vehicle division specialists will be at Electronica, Munich to introduce you to MCC’s almost unlimited application possibilities – take a step ahead from competition and check them out!
    To know more about
     > Squib Interconnects and Air Bag Assemblies

  • FCI Expands D-Sub Cable Connector Series With Space Saving Angle Exit Versions - 08/10/2008
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, expanded its range of economical D-sub shielded hoods to include an angle exit versions for 50-way cable connectors. The angle exit version is ideal for indoor signal and power applications requiring robustness and/or high EMI/RFI performance in industrial and telecommunications markets. “Meeting the demands of compact environments requires high density components. This new hood meets our customer’s needs by providing hood sizes capable of handling up to 50 ways in standard density or 78 ways in high density D-subs, making the angle exit the ideal solution for saving space,” said Luc Maillet, global product manager at FCI Electronics. The economical D-sub angle exit series has several advantages in terms of weight and applied cost. The simplified hood design resulted in a lighter connector and allows for reduced assembly time, which can yield up to 20 percent reduced total applied cost. At the same time customer applications still receive the high level of performance needed. The metal strain relief works with cable diameters from 8.0mm to 17mm and with just two screws to fasten, assembly is fast, easy and reduces labor costs. The D-sub angle exit shielded hood series was previously available in 9-, 15-, 25- and 37-position versions compatible with 4 to 13 mm cable diameters, but is now available in 50 positions. The hoods can withstand an operating temperature from –40°C to +120°C and offer a high EMI/RFI performance (>40db from 30MHz to 1GHz). FCI’s full line of D-sub hoods includes plastic, metallic coated plastic, metal straight and Right-angle versions.
    To know more about
     > Dsub

  • FCI OEN Connectors Ltd. receives prestigious ELCINA-DUN & BRADSTREET Award - 25/09/2008
    FCI OEN, one of India’s leading connector manufacturers, has received the First Prize for Business Excellence for the year 2007-08 by Electronic Industries Association of India (ELCINA) and Dun & Bradstreet, the world’s leading source of global business information. P. George Varghese, Managing Director, FCI OEN, received the award from Dr. V. Krishnamurthy, Chairman of the National Manufacturing Competitive Council (NMCC), the Government of India, during a ceremony held on September 10 in New Delhi. Speaking during the award ceremony, Mr. P George Varghese, Managing Director, FCI OEN Connectors Ltd said, “It is a moment of great honour to receive this award. Getting recognition for business excellence from ELCINA-Dun & Bradstreet is a great accomplishment for us.” Established more than 30 years ago, ELCINA is the country’s first organization to institute Annual Awards for Excellence in Electronics for outstanding achievement in electronics and hardware manufacturing & services. Industry experts, Government and Institutions (supporting the Electronics Industry) who comprise the panel of judges, assess the contending organizations in terms of Leadership, Policy & Strategy, People, Process, Customer, Society, Quality, Environment, R&D and Exports to choose the winner for this award. FCI OEN is a majority owned subsidiary of FCI, a French-based global leading connector manufacturer. FCI OEN supplies professional grade connectors for communication, industrial instrumentation and automotive industries on the Indian market. Sophisticated manufacturing facilities based in Cochin, professional teams and highest quality products make FCI a leader in the electronic connectors segment. With a strong management review system and excellent operational performance, FCI testifies for high customer satisfaction and employee commitment.

  • FCI sets market trends in the heart of innovation at Electronica 2008 (11-14 November) - 25/09/2008
    FCI, the global connector manufacturer, will participate in Electronica 2008 which takes place in Munich’s New Trade Fair centre, with a large two-story booth. The ambition is to illustrate the company’s base line: ‘Setting the standards for connectors’. As an echo to this motto, FCI will propose an original approach for the introduction of its latest products. Taking customers’ key requirements as the thread for the message to be conveyed, FCI will display connectors around 4 main themes: - Miniaturization - High Speed, high density - Reliability & Performance - Inventive services Along side these main themes that drive Innovation at FCI, visitors will discover solutions tackling one or several of these 4 requirements at a time, mainly from FCI’s Electronics and Motorized Vehicles Divisions. Breaking the usual exhibition rules of presenting products for customers to shop, FCI determinedly puts forward its capabilities from R&D to production to offer tailored solutions, thus demonstrating again its technological leadership in the connector market. Come and ask about FCI’s innovations at booth B4.636 in Hall B4!

  • FCI launches microsite and support program to assist flex connector specification and selection - 22/09/2008
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, is launching a service and support program around its line of connectors to terminate flexible circuitry (FFC/FPC/CIC) to assist customers in easily selecting the flex connector product solution for their design requirements. The program focuses on the new dedicated flex connector microsite, which will allow customers to quickly find the products they are looking for, along with customer drawings, performance characteristics and technical information.
    “FCI is a leader in flex circuit connector technology, and we offer a great breadth in our product line,” said Akira Nakai, global marketing director, flex connectors, FCI. “As our product family continues to grow, we want to help both existing customers and potential customers quickly access the information they need to select the right connector, as well as to support them in designing in the flex connectors in their applications.”
    The flex connector program simplifies the product selection process, and provides quick access to products, documentation, and packaging information, via a dedicated web site. Technical support is always readily available to answer questions about products and sample requests can be fulfilled quickly. FCI is one of the leading developers and manufacturers of flex connectors, with products varying from the traditional 2.54mm pitch to 0.3mm pitch. FCI pioneered innovative features such as back side flip actuation, allowing the cable to be locked into place with one hand, as well as ZIF with prehold, which provides enough retention to hold the cable in place while the lock is actuated. The connectors are ideal for a variety of applications, particularly in connecting an LCD screen to the PCB, such as cell phones, handheld electronic games, car navigation systems, medical equipment, industrial equipment, ATMs and POS vending machines. FCI offers flex connector products with ZIF (zero insertion force), LIF (low insertion force), and non-ZIF; upper and down contact options; vertical and right angle orientations; surface-mount and through-hole terminations; and in contact spacing options all the way down to 0.3mm, with finer pitch products on their way. Other features, such as optional cable locks and additional mounting devices, insure that FCI has a solution for almost any application, no matter how demanding.
    The flex connector customer support program also includes a new catalog featuring the most up-to-date and available products.
    To know more about
     > Flex Connectors

  • BURNDY® to Feature Grounding MIX at International Pool & Spa Expo - 16/09/2008
    Please visit booth # L2154 to learn more about this product offering
    BURNDY®, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector solutions to the industrial energy, and application tooling industries, will showcase its grounding products mix at the International Pool & Spa Exposition from November 18-20, 2008 in Las Vegas, Nevada. This unique combination of grounding products offered by BURNDY ensures pool and spa installers the best product for their specific application. Only BURNDY offers this wide range of mechanical, compression, and exothermic products designed specifically for the pool and spa industry. BURNDY has been supplying connection solutions to the Pool and Spa market for over 40 years offering their experience, value and technology. GRIDMAX™ Equipotential Bonding Grid covers all points around the contour of the pool and pool deck helping to equalize any voltage and stray currents that pass through the area. GRIDMAX provides a safe environment for people in the pool and on the pool deck by helping to minimize stray currents that may be circulating in the ground. BURNDY provides three acceptable methods of connecting GRIDMAX sections together. The BURNDYWeld® exothermic grounding option provides a simple, portable, and efficient method of welding copper to copper and other various materials without the use of an external power source. The resulting connection is a fusion or molecular weld of virtually pure copper. The HYGROUND® Irreversible Compression Grounding System is a safe, cost-effective and time-efficient grounding method. HYGROUND is a complete system consisting of connectors for cross grid connections, taps, splices, cable to ground rod, ground plates, and terminations. BURNDY’s Mechanical Grounding and Bonding Connectors, ideal for direct burial applications in earth or embedment in concrete, are made of high copper content alloys and use a nut and bolt design to provide the means for connecting copper cable. To ensure maximum performance under the most extreme environmental conditions, only the finest high copper alloys are used.

  • FCI Basics+ Program is Faster Than Ever - 15/09/2008
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems has expanded the popular Basics+ program to make it even faster for customers to specify and buy connectors for board-to-board and cable/wire-to-board applications.
    A key feature of the new program is dramatically shortened factory lead times for initial quantities, with a distribution program being implemented to get the products to the customers in just days. The Basics+ program makes it faster than ever to find, sample and design-in the parts needed. FCI is still working closely with their distribution network to make the speed and satisfaction of the customer experience an even higher priority.
    The Basics+ program simplifies the product selection process, provides quick access to products, documentation, pricing and packing information. Technical support is always readily available to answer questions about products and ordering and sample requests can be fulfilled quickly.
    Other new features of the Basics+ program include an updated 84-page catalog featuring the most up-to-date and available products. The web site now allows designers to specify customized parts. Designers can also browse the expanded 2mm modular system and specially designed products for the pin-in-paste process. The Basics+ program is built around 2.54mm and 2mm pitch connectors for board-to-board, wire-to-board and cable-to-board applications. Services and benefits of the Basics+ program include, immediate technical assistance via the basics.help@fci.com hotline, a dedicated microsite and catalog for easier product research, a simplified ordering process and fast delivery of sample or prototype quantities.
    To know more about
     > Basics+

  • BURNDY® receives "Supplier of the year" award from WESCO - 10/09/2008
    BURNDY® Products has received the 2008 "Supplier of the Year" award from WESCO Distribution, Inc., a leading distributor of electrical construction products and electrical and industrial MRO supplies. BURNDY earned the award for double-digit sales growth over the past five consecutive years as well as for their dedication to WESCO. The “Supplier of the Year” award was one of four national awards that BURNDY received at the WESCO Sales and Marketing Conference held this past August at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
    Said Jim Moreland, BURNDY''s Key Account Manager and recipient of the WESCO "Extra Effort Individual" Award, "I am truly grateful for the efforts our team puts forth every day to sell, market and produce BURNDY Products for and through the 400+ WESCO branches in North America." . BURNDY President, Rodd Ruland commented, "When a $6 billion company that supplies products from over 8000 individual suppliers recognizes BURNDY as "Supplier of the Year," that''s an accomplishment of which we can be very proud."

  • FCI’s USB+Power and Latch-N-Lok™ Cable Assemblies Support Cost-Effective Power Needs - 19/08/2008
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, has expanded its offering of cable assembly devices with the introduction of the USB+Power and Latch-N-Lok™ cable assemblies. USB+Power and Latch-N-Lok have been widely used in the point-of-sale device market for several years, and popularity is growing in the sales of control systems, medical instrumentation, test and measurement, and inventory equipment.
    “Combining these two proven interconnect standards into one cable eliminates the need for a separate power source and their associated AC outlets,” said Leo Ding, Product Manager, FCI. “Adapting USB+Power and Latch-N-Lok cable assemblies is easy and cost-effective. With fewer cables being used, the assemblies lower installation costs, reduce footprint to free up valuable space, and eliminate potential risk of failure.” Designed to address requirements for higher power in devices using USB signaling, USB+Power adds four power contacts to the interface and provides a total of 5 amps of additional current-carrying capability. Standard USB devices only carry 1 amp. USB+Power is fully compliant with USB standard 2.0 and offers capabilities that exceed those standards. Latch-N-Lok is a rugged cable-to-equipment connector interface to connect signals or power, and is designed for user convenience as well as durability. This versatile connector system provides optional integral shielding and grounding for controlling EMI/ESD. Active latching on the cable plugs of Latch-N-Lok and USB+Power cable assemblies provides positive retention ensuring a secure connection, while keying and color options prevent the mating of incorrect cables.
    To know more about
     > Power

  • FCI Launches Millipacs® Microsite - 12/08/2008
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces a new, dedicated Millipacs®microsite with a core product selector to simplify specifying the industry’s most complete 2mm Hard Metric Millipacs® and CompactPCI interconnect family. “In today’s market, it’s important to offer tools that enable customers to easily access standard as well as customized product solutions,” said Abin Simon, global product marketing manager for FCI. “We’ve developed the Millipacs® microsite to be a single dashboard for all FCI’s Millipacs® products to fulfill this customer need.” The newly designed microsite can be found at www.fci.com/millipacs. The core product selector simplifies access to product solutions and provides downloadable product brochures and catalogs, customer drawings and specifications, 3D mechanical models and other useful links. The Millipacs® family consists of a wide range of headers, receptacles, cable connectors and accessories including 5-row and 8-row options, FCI eye-of-needle press-fit termination and the Pin-in-Paste Type C headers. The Millipacs connector portfolio is ideal for use as daughter card connectors in rack systems, but the technology is also being used for boardto-board and wire-to-board applications in the telecom and industrial markets. In conjunction with the launch of the microsite, a printed version of the new Millipacs® and CompactPCI Core Product Selector is being launched. The 6-page catalog provides information on an extensive range of connectors and accessories.
    To know more about
     > Millipacs®

  • FCI Develops 0.5mm Pitch 2.0mm Height FPC (ZIF) Connectors - 08/08/2008
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, now offers a flip actuator, 0.5mm pitch, 2mm height FPC ZIF connector for use in optical drives and automotive multimedia systems. Designated the VHC Series, the FPC ZIF connectors provide a robust design that can withstand high cable retention forces making them ideal for consumer and automotive applications.
    “Consumer and automotive multimedia systems are utilizing larger and higher quality LCD displays that require FPC cable connection,” said Akira Nakai, global product line director, FCI. “Optical disk drive systems such as Blu-Ray are consuming elevated levels of data volume that need faster transmission speeds and more signals in the systems to connect with pick-up units and module boards, and the VHC connectors make that possible.” The connector’s flipping actuator facilitates the secure cable assembly with click actuation, and the VHC series is available with or without cable lock. FCI integrated these features to ensure compatibility for automotive multimedia applications. The 0.5mm pitch FPC ZIF connector will be available in 40-70 positions and accepts 0.3mm thick FPC cable. The 60-position version is currently available and lower pin-count types are in development to complete the family offering.

  • BURNDY® introduces the new Break-Away Hylug™ copper and aluminium line of compression terminals - 08/07/2008
    BURNDY® Products introduces its new Break-Away HYLUG™ line of copper and aluminum compression terminals (types YBA, YBA-FX and YBA-A). The Break-Away HYLUG provides maximum field flexibility by allowing the installer (using the Break-Away feature) to easily convert a two-hole terminal to a one-hole terminal to suit the application.
    To know more about
     > BURNDY® Products>

  • FCI develops iVDR connectors for removable storage applications - 02/07/2008
    FCI has expanded its line of storage interface interconnects with the development of a connector for use with the information Versatile Disk for Removable usage (iVDR) standard. A connector board member for the iVDR Consortium, FCI’s connector range contributes to standardizing the next-generation large-capacity data platform in applications such as media cartridges and internal port terminations; PCs, servers, set-top boxes, and the like; and auto-loading mechanisms in host applications. The iVDR standard can be a hard disk drive or a solid-state device capable of recording copyright-protected high-definition content without loss of quality while maintaining SAFIA security protection.
    “The iVDR allows for the sharing of various content including movies, music and programs, over a variety of devices such as information appliances, home servers, video recorders, automobile AV devices and PCs,” said Lucas Chin, global marketing manager storage drives, FCI. “The FCI iVDR connectors facilitate security, mobility, durability and speed in these applications.”
    FCI’s iVDR connector provides a single row of 26 contacts and 1.27mm pitch. The plug is available in a right-angle version with SMT leads and has a hold-down feature on both ends for lead-free assembly. The receptacle is available in right-angle and vertical versions with SMT leads. The right-angle form factor features a fixed-screw hole while the vertical type features a hold-down on each end of the connector. The iVDR connector is RoHS-compliant and compatible with lead-free processing temperatures.

  • FCI’s New Micro SATA Connector Supports Hard Disk Drives - 30/06/2008
    FCI has expanded its line of storage interface interconnects with the development of the Micro SATA interconnect solution for 1.8" form factor drives and portable applications that meets the Serial ATA International Organization (SATA-IO) newly released 2.6 revision specification. Micro SATA connectors comply with to SATA-IO standards with respect to the mating interface and are compatible with applications such as notebook PCs, set-top boxes, games consoles, audio/video and portable storage.
    “With staggered contact lengths as well as guide posts and pockets this connector can support hot-plugging and blind-mating of 1.8" form factor drives” said Lucas Chin, global marketing manager, FCI.
    The Micro SATA connector meets SFF 2.6 specification with 16 positions (7 positions with 1.27mm pitch for signal and 7+2 positions with 1.27mm pitch for power) requirements. The plug connector supports both internal 5.00mm and 8.00mm slim-type 1.8" form factor drives (such as HDD or SSD) while the right angle Micro SATA receptacle connector supports system applications. The Micro SATA connector is RoHS-compliant, compatible with lead-free processing temperatures and the retainers provide additional mechanical strength after soldering.
    To know more about
     > www.fci.com/sata>

  • FCI’s Slimline Connector Fully Compliant with SATA-I/O 2.6 Spec - 27/06/2008
    FCI has expanded its line of storage interface interconnects with the development of the Slimline connector, which is designed to enable the connection of a “slimline” form factor drive to the Serial ATA interface. The slimline connector is ideal for applications such as removable optical disk drive interfaces, desktop/notebook PCs, gaming equipment and internal/ external ODD drives.
    “The connector is designed to fit into the presently used PATA (Parallel ATA) connector slimline design with almost no changes to the slimline drive case, media tray, or internal mechanics,” said Lucas Chin, global marketing manager, FCI. “A simple replacement of the PATA PC board with a SATA controller and connector in the present slimline drive designs is now possible.” .
    The connector preserves the design of the signal portion of the present SATA connector and accommodates presently available SATA signal cables. .
    Offering high durability of 500 cycles, the connector withstands a mating force of 45N maximum and an unmating force of 10N minimum. The connector is available in a 13-position version (7-pos with 1.27mm pitch for signal and 6-pos with 1mm pitch for power). FCI’s slimline SATA connectors are fully compliant with the Serial ATA international Organization (SATA-I/O) newly released 2.6 revision specification for Optical Disk Drive (ODD) systems.
    To know more about
     > www.fci.com/sata>

  • FCI Launches The HCI® Power Distribution Connector System With A Dedicated Microsite - 16/06/2008
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces the launch of the HCI® Power Distribution Connector System. In addition to FCI’s Power Solutions microsite (www.fci.com/powersolutions) which contains information regarding FCI’s various power solutions, a microsite dedicated to HCI (www.fci.com/hci) is available to assist designers in determining which HCI products are right for their design. HCI technology anticipates increasing system power demands that are driving the need for greater power density. A single HCI power contact accommodates over 82 amps based on a 30°C temperature rise with zero airflow. The high current-carrying capacity coupled with a robust, molded-in guidance system are ideal for high-wattage, blind-mate power supplies.
    ″The stamped and formed HCI power contacts, initially pioneered by FCI on its PwrBlade® system, are an innovative and cost-effective alternative to expensive screw-machined contacts for high-current applications″, said John Dodds, FCI’s global product marketing manager for power products.
    The HCI connector system is designed to address requirements that extend beyond the capability of FCI’s proven PwrBlade connector system, the industry standard for DC power supply interfaces and power distribution. Tooled HCI configurations support standard co-planar and backplane interfaces. The fully integrated HCI design enables DC power, AC power and signal contacts in a single molded housing. Similar to PwrBlade, HCI is modularly tooled, allowing incredible flexibility to address custom configuration requirements. HCI features cost-effective stamped contacts, a vented but touch-proof housing to optimize airflow above, below and through the connector. This allows heat to convect away from contact surfaces producing the lowest product height among comparable high-current connectors. Pricing for a typical HCI backpanel configuration of 5DC+24S is $16 USD per mated pair in prototype quantities.
    To know more about
     > HCI® Connector System

  • FCI AirMax VS® and ZipLine™ connectors transmit error-free 40Gb/s data - 07/05/2008
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, recently completed multi-channel tests for both the AirMax VS® the ZipLine™connector systems, using twin test vehicles, in which the high-speed connectors transmitted error-free data at 40Gb/s. The test configurations consisted of a set of four Broadcom BCM8072 dual-channel 10Gb/s transceivers and two IEEE802.3ap reference backplanes with either AirMax VS® connectors or ZipLine™ backplane connectors. FCI successfully transmitted error-free data over eight 1-meter channels simultaneously. With the daughter cards and backplane made of Nelco 4000-12SI material, each of the channels achieved a bit-error rate (BER) of better than 5e-16 in the presence of seven aggressor channels. With four channels running in each direction, the resultant aggregate data rate was 40 Gb/s. AirMax VS® Connector has been a leading high speed backplane connector since 2004. The recently announced ZipLine™ Connector system offers customers the highest signal density of any backplane or orthogonal midplane connector presently on the market. Both AirMax VS® and ZipLine™ connector systems are ideally suited for multiple 10Gb/s channel applications. ZipLine™ connectors are built upon FCI’s proven AirMax VS® technology and offers similar signal integrity performance. Like AirMax VS® connectors, the ZipLine™ connector system uses edge-coupling technology to deliver high signal density with low insertion loss and low crosstalk, all without the use of costly and space-consuming metal shields. Data rates can scale from 2.5Gb/s to beyond 12Gb/s without requiring re-design of a basic platform.
    To know more about
     > Zipline™

  • FCI launches Metral® microsite - 06/05/2008
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces a new, dedicated Metral® microsite that provides greater detail on the most complete 2mm backplane interconnect range for board-to-board and cable-to-board applications. The Metral connectors are ideal for use in chassis-based packaging in telecommunications, datacom and other industrial equipment.
    “In today’s market it’s important to offer tools that enable customers to easily access standard as well customized product solutions,” said Koos Steding, global product marketing manager for FCI. “We’ve developed the Metral microsite to be a single dashboard for all FCI’s Metral products to fulfill this customer need.”
    The newly designed microsite can be found at www.fci.com/metral. The portal simplifies access to product solutions and provides downloadable product brochures and catalogs, customer drawings and specifications, 3D mechanical models, electrical models and other useful links. In conjunction with the launch of the microsite, a new Metral full line catalog is being launched. The 228-page catalog provides information on an extensive range of shrouded pin headers, board-mounted receptacles, cable connectors, hybrid connectors, power modules and other accessories to support virtually any board-to-board or cable-to-board application. FCI offers standard or customized options, in accordance with IEC 61076-4- 104 and compliant to Telcordia® GR-1217 CORE.
    To know more about
     > Metral®

  • FCI’s Product Portfolio Meets Demands of Industrial Applications - 06/05/2008
    FCI, a leading developer of connectors and interconnect systems, is expanding and updating its product portfolio to continue to meet the needs of industrial equipment manufacturers. FCI’s industrial product offering is built around an extensive range of board-to-board and wire/cable-to-board connectors, with established brand names such as Dubox™, Quickie® and Minitek™. I/O connectors including modular jacks and D-Subs are also used in such applications.
    “Customers know FCI for innovative, high-speed connector solutions,” said Gijs Werner, global I&I market manager for FCI. “FCI is also a reliable source for interconnect solutions in industrial applications.” FCI has developed several technologies to enhance product offerings including an improved through hole reflow technology (Pin-In-Paste) which is used for most of FCI’s products. Following the trend towards miniaturization, FCI also expanded its successful 2.00mm modular, board-to-board system Minitek, the most complete 2.00mm system. Minitek provides 38% PCB space reduction compared to 2.54mm systems.
    “Although some of FCI’s products were designed more than 40 years ago and set the connector standard at that time, we find that even today these products are still going strong,” said Bavo Teunissen, global marketing communications director for FCI. “Products with dual-beam contact systems, proper normal force, higher conductive materials and performance-based plating address the needs for higher reliability in long lasting applications.” A specific service program was created to accomplish two-week lead-time, quick delivery of samples and easy access to information to make the design-in process easy and to speed up time-to-market. FCI continues to invest in the expansion and updating of its standard product portfolio because of the value these products have for industrial manufacturers. Detailed information is available in a dedicated brochure “Connectors for Process Control” available on FCI’s web site.

  • FCI expands GIG-ARRAY® high speed mezzanine connector family with additional stack heights - 24/04/2008
    FCI expands GIG-ARRAY® high speed mezzanine connector family with additional stack heights FCI, a leading manufacturer of connectors and interconnect systems, announces an extension of its GIG-ARRAY® high-speed, high-density mezzanine product line with the introduction of the new 11mm receptacle connectors.
    These new GIG-Array receptacles connectors provide either 200 or 296 signal contacts and add the capability for 21mm, 23mm, 24mm, 26mm, 31mm or 36mm board-to-board spacing when used in combination with FCI''s existing plug heights.
    "With the addition of these new GIG-ARRAY connector options, we are now offering equipment designers eighteen stack-height options to enable them to address component clearance, airflow, or slot spacing requirements that are unique to their chassis designs," said Grace Showers, FCI global product marketing. "Blade server, storage, communications, and networking equipment are among the applications that can benefit from the excellent high-speed electrical performance provided by the GIG-ARRAY connector system." GIG-ARRAY differential pairs nominally provide 100 ohms matched impedance to deliver higher speed performance with less reflected power. GIG-ARRAY connectors can support transmission rates up to 10 Gbps with optimized wiring patterns. The 296-position connector contains 37 columns with eight individual signal contacts and nine ground contacts in each column, while the 200-position connector contains 25 columns. The use of individual contacts for both signal and ground connections provides more flexibility in handling power or low-speed signals than systems that utilize interleaving ground shields. All GIG-ARRAY connectors feature FCI''s innovative Ball Grid Array (BGA) connector termination for easy attachment to printed circuit boards using conventional reflow soldering processes. The 1mm x 0.65mm BGA grid optimizes PCB trace routing and electrical performance. Lead-free and RoHS-compatible connector options are available.
    To know more about
     > MezzSelect™ GIG-Array®

  • Avnet Electronics Marketing and Electronic Connector Manufacturer FCI Sign Global Agreement - 24/04/2008
    Avnet now markets and sells FCI’s full line in more than 70 countries
    Avnet Electronics Marketing, an operating group of Avnet, Inc. (NYSE: AVT), has entered into a global distribution agreement with FCI, a leading supplier of electronic connectors and interconnect systems. Under the terms of the agreement, Avnet will distribute FCI’s full product line to customers throughout the more than 70 countries where Avnet does business  in the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific and Japan. This broad agreement supersedes an earlier, more circumscribed distribution pact between the two companies.
    “We view this agreement as an enhancement to the already strong working relationship between FCI and Avnet,” said Lou Lipomi, vice president of global distributor account management for FCI. “Our commitment is to provide the best design services and supply chain solutions to our customers, regardless of their global footprint. We see Avnet as being very well positioned to support this effort on a worldwide basis.” “Together, Avnet and FCI bring an expansive selection of cost-effective products to the market and will continue to develop and deliver innovative interconnects, high-speed and miniaturized connectors to our customers around the globe,” said Tom McCartney, senior vice president of IP&E business development worldwide for Avnet Electronics Marketing. “It’s a pleasure to announce to the global electronics industry the expansion of our interconnect offerings through the agreement with FCI on behalf of the entire Avnet team.”
    FCI has 34 manufacturing sites across the globe where it designs and manufactures connector solutions targeting market applications for telecommunications infrastructures, consumer electronics, data storage, energy, power and utility, industrial, instrumentation and medical.
    For more information please visit
     > www.em.avnet.com/fci

  • FCI Develops Economical D-SUB Shielded Hood Series - 23/04/2008
    FCI, a leading supplier of connectors and interconnect systems, expands its range of high-performance, traditional D-sub shielded hoods with an economical series. This new product is ideal for indoor signal or power applications
    requiring robustness and/or high EMI/RFI performance in the industrial and telecommunications markets. “The simplified connector design results in a lighter connector and allows for reduced assembly time, which can yield up to 20 percent reduced total applied cost while still providing the high level of performance that FCI’s customers have come to expect,” said Luc Maillet, global product manager at FCI Electronics.
    This D-Sub shielded hood is designed with an optimum number of pieces: two half-metal covers in zamack (zinc alloy), two jack screws, and a steel fiber-reinforced plastic strain relief for EMI/RFI screening and mechanical cable retention. The strain relief works with cable diameters from 4.0 mm to 13 mm. With just two screws to fasten, assembly is fast and easy, allowing for reduced labor costs. The D-Sub shielded hood series is available in 9-, 15-, 25- and 37-position versions. The hoods can withstand an operating temperature from – 40°C to + 120°C and are UL94V-0 qualified.
    FCI’s full line of D-Sub hoods includes plastic, metallic coated plastic and metal straight and right-angle versions.

  • BURNDY® Products: 80 years and still on the Top - 23/04/2008
    Rodd Ruland, BURNDY® Products’ Corporate Vice President and General Manager, tells Executive On-Line Magazine how BURNDY Products has leveraged 80 years of experience to keep itself at the forefront of the electrical component & tooling industry.
    The pace at which technology is advancing is growing ever more rapidly, and there are numerous strategies and applications that businesses must adopt to keep up with the seemingly endless opportunities opened up by new technologies.
    Remaining up-to-date or just ahead of the advancement curve is where many companies seek to be – and the company they turn to is BURNDY® Products, the Electrical Division of FCI, a company that provides both individual customers and large-scale businesses with the means to achieve the best connectivity. - View the white paper - Download the white paper - Read the article: www.execdigital.com

With operations in 30 countries, FCI is a leading manufacturer of connectors.