Terminal retention redundancy technology to prevent malfunction in the finished product

Molex Korea has launched Micro-Fit TPA single-row and double-row structure receptacles and cable assemblies designed to prevent failures caused by terminal detachment and provide secondary terminal retention technology.

The Terminal Position Assurance (TPA) technology applied to this product ensures that the terminal is securely mounted to the housing. Combined with the Micro-Fit TPA single and double receptacle functions that act as an Integrated Sliding Lock (ISL), terminal detachment due to common assembly errors is virtually prevented.

If terminal detachment occurs, various side effects arise, ranging from customer complaints (frequency defects) to system disasters (exposed live terminals), resulting in the finished product manufacturer bearing liability costs and consumers also suffering losses. By using this product, you can save costs by avoiding expensive service costs caused by detachment without undergoing quality assurance inspections to verify whether the terminals are properly inserted.

Micro-Fit TPA single-row and double-row receptacle structures are compatible with all existing Micro-Fit 3.0 hair and plug housings, so customers can easily incorporate TPA-designed products into their systems without special modifications or additional costs.

“Thanks to Micro-Fit 3.0 compatibility, customers can apply TPA products to finished products simply by changing the housing part number,” said Pierre Perez, Deputy General Manager of Product at Molex. “For manufacturers, using this excellent component without special design modifications or additional work will have a very positive impact on reducing overall production costs.”

Since the single-row receptacle is housed in an integrated housing, there is no need to procure additional parts to reduce SKUs (Stock Keeping Units). The double-row TPA receptacle uses two retainers and handles up to 12 circuits. Products handling 14 to 24 circuits are currently under development. The receptacles provide current ratings equivalent to existing Micro-Fit 3.0 connectors and a 3.00 mm (0.12 inch) pitch for high-power, low-pitch connections. Contacts that are completely isolated on each side of the interface prevent the possibility of arcing.

The ready-made Micro-Fit TPA cable assembly reduces tooling start costs by providing a complete assembly that meets the IPC (Association Connecting Electronics Industries) Standard 2 specifications. The multi-color cable configuration ensures correct connections, and the UL 1061 compliant individual wires can be easily used in various electronic products. The cable assembly, compliant with the 2011/65/EU RoHS standard, is assembled in an ISO/TS16969 certified facility that meets current automotive industry standards.

Single-row and double-row receptacle housings are currently available in various circuit sizes, enabling flexibility and rapid implementation in finished product design. They are applied in wire processors, consumer electronics manufacturing, automotive, and various other manufacturing industries.