3D Surface Profiler
3D Measurement of Connectors
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Tags:
- Electronic Devices
The recent popularization of digital equipment and communication devices have resulted in an increased demand for connectors.
Meanwhile, connector types and applications have also increased, leading to an even greater need for product inspection and analysis. KEYENCE’s latest model in the VK-X3000 Series is capable of repeat measurements, automatic measurement of multiple locations of the same target, and creation of OK/NG analysis templates.
This section introduces technical information related to connectors as well as example inspections using 3D surface profilers.
Connector Overview
A connector is a device used for joining wiring for electronic circuits and optical communication. The use of connectors makes attachment/detachment and connection easier.
Merits of Using a Connector
- Replacement with a new one makes repairs easy.
- Easy to upgrade with modularization.
- Parts can be easily assembled and productivity can be improved.
Connector Terminology
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1Device / panel
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2Receptacle
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3Plug
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4Cable
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5Jack
Plug
The male side of a pair of mating connectors that has a needle shaped contact.
It is used in conjunction with a jack.
Jack
The female side of a pair of mating connectors that has a lattice-shaped contact for the insertion.
Receptacle
To be used with a plug but attaching it to a panel or box.
Header
This connector is used to connect a flat cable. The male side is called the header and is used as a set with the socket.
Socket
This connector is used to connect a flat cable. The female side is called a socket.
Connector Structure
Contact
Terminals that make electrical contact when the connectors are mated. Two common type include knife-fork contacts and bellows contacts.
Knife fork contact
The name comes from the fact that the structure of the contact is similar to a knife and fork.
Bellows contact
The name comes from the fact that the shape of the contact resembles a bellows. This contact is formed by bending a thing plate and is highly reliable due to surface contact.
Terminal
Terminals are used for connecting to a printed circuit board. Depending on the mounting direction needed, straight and right angle connectors can be used.
Straight
Right angle
Housing
Housing is an insulator to hold the contact (can also be called the shell).
Connector Purposes and Categories
Connection Within the Device
Connection with the PCB and line
Flat cable connections are mainly used inside of devices.
They consist of a set of header and socket.
Board-to-board connection
The shape of the connector differs when boards are stacked on the top and bottom and when one side is connected standing up. It is used as the header and socket set.
Device to Device Connection
When used between devices, they are also called I/O (input/output) connectors or I/F (interface) connectors. Circular, square, coaxial, and optical connectors are common.
Circular connector
Square connector
Coaxial connector
Light connector
Connector Inspection Examples
Coplanarity Inspection
Pitch Inspection
Pin Planar Position Inspection
Pin Height Inspection
Housing Warpage Inspection
The height color display makes it possible to visualize warpage.
The surface measurement function can also automatically measure the maximum and minimum surface points.
Terminal Tip Shape Inspection
Measurement of microstructures that are difficult to measure with contact-type shape measurement systems is possible.
Terminal Roughness Inspection
Terminal Surface 3D Comparison Image
Light reflection varies between the center and periphery of the connector terminals.
The collapsed apex shape at the periphery indicates strong reflection.
Cross-Sectional Measurement Curve
Roughness Curve
