ZIF, LIF, FFC FPC Connector

ZIF connectors are used to provide flexible, detachable connections between printed circuit boards and a FFC or FPC. They are used in various areas, for example in electronic devices such as audio and video equipment, printers, displays or even in industrial computers.

The ZIF connectors connect Flexible Flat Cables (FFC), which are manufactured in a laminating process. In the flat, flexible cables, the conductors are positioned in such a way that they can be contacted with a ZIF or LIF connector without an additional contact element.

The same applies to Flexible Printed Circuits (FPC), which are created in an etching process. Here also the position of the conductors at the end makes it possible to establish contact with a ZIF or LIF connector without an additional contact element.

Conventional LIF connectors usually use a tuning fork contact or only a simple contact spring for contacting the FFC and FPC. The FFC is fixed in the connector solely by the contact force. There is no further locking or fixing of FFC/FPC.
ZIF connectors, on the other hand, offer different locking options:

ZIZIF connectors with slider
Here, FFC or FPC are inserted into the connector with zero force. A wedge-shaped slider is then used. The slider creates a force between the ZIF contact and the FFC/FPC.

ZIF connectors with rotating locking ("flip" or "piano lock")
This form of locking is the simpler and faster way to apply the contact force after insertion. The FFC/FPC are inserted into the ZIF connector and then the lock is rotated in the locked position.

Automatically locking connectors
Because of their easy handling, automatically locking connectors are becoming increasingly popular.

Here, the FFC/FPC just needs to be inserted into the connector. The contact force is generated by the contact spring. In addition, a mechanism locks with the contour of the FFC/FPC. In order to implement automatic locking for FFC/FPC, these always require a punched shape in the connector area.

Due to their design, these connectors always generate a contact force when the FFC/FPC is plugged in and unplugged. They therefore belong to the group of LIF connectors.

For the best possible mating of the ZIF connectors and the FFC cables or FPC circuit boards, some essential properties and factors must be considered.

Dimensions and tolerances
In the specification of a ZIF or LIF connector, detailed specifications are made regarding the dimensions of the FFC/FPC in the contact area. These specifications must be fulfilled by the supplier of the FFC/FPC. This is the only way to ensure compatibility – even under the influence of temperature, vibrations, etc. The ElectronAix FFCs meet the compatibility criteria.

Special attention must be paid to the tolerances if different connectors are to be connected at the ends.

Contours of the FFC cable
FFC are available with straight or punched contours. Both versions have their own advantages, but also their respective disadvantages:
 

• Connectors for a straight contour of FFC/FPC are a cost-effective solution. Originally, all ZIF connectors and LIF connectors were designed so that FFC/FPC could be cut straight at the ends, with a rectangular shape. This is the simplest and most cost-effective version to produce a FFC/FPC. It reduces the use of material and the effort during the production.
  A disadvantage arises from the risk of inaccurate mating of FFC/FPC and the connector.


• Connectors for a stamped or punched shape of FFC/FPC ensure reliable contacting. In case you are looking for the best fit of the FFC/FPC and the connector, this type of connector is the better choice.
  These versions of connectors require a punched shape at the end of the FFC. Since the punching is very precise with very small tolerances of +/- 0.05 mm, this connection provides very precise positioning and thus reliable contacting of the FFC/FPC in the connector.

Regarding the different locking options for ZIF connectors, the following applies: Automatically locking connectors always require a punched shape. For ZIF connectors with slider or flap, it depends on the respective version whether a punched shape is required.

ZIF connectors are versatile, but with the right specifications they can do even more. This includes the possibility for ground contacts or the use in environments with very high or very low temperatures.

FFC/FPC connectors with additional ground contacts for LVDS or EMI shielding

By means of one or more ground layers, FFC/FPC are tuned to an impedance of 100 Ohm. This ground layer needs a contact. FFC/FPC connectors for high data rates have corresponding contacts for the ground contact of the FFC/FPC. This makes them suitable for data rates of up to 10 Gbit/sec. and more.

FFC/FPC connectors for an extended temperature range

Matching the FFC and FPC, some series are available for a temperature range from -40 to +125/135°C.

ElectronAix ZIF Connectors and FFC/FPC from one source

At ElectronAix, you get connectors and FFC from one source. This reduces your coordination effort and speeds up the successful implementation of your project. Our range includes high-quality ZIF connectors from IRISO and I-PEX as well as our own brand from Asia. We support you from start to the end of live of your project.

SAP is our most important tool

Documentation and data security

Project planning and buffer storage

Origin of supply

Many years of experience, attention to detail and passion for our products will quickly help you to find the cable assembly with moulded connectors that is precisely tailored to your needs.

We aim to quickly provide you with helpful information, the right drawing and appropriate samples. This reduces your time to market. Our buffer stock of connectors, contact systems and cable assemblies help you to find a solution quickly and to achieve short delivery times.

ISO9001, ISO13485 and IATF16949 certified production lines are indicators of the high quality standard of our products and ensure your safety and satisfaction.

All products come from a largely automated process with automatic soldering and crimping and 100 percent electrical testing. Our distribution and logistics processes are certified according to ISO9001 and audited according to VDA.

You require specific tests, such as bending cycles, lengths or test reports? If so, ElectronAix is the perfect partner for you. We will coordinate all details with you individually.