TE News: New TE Connectivity connector helps automotive OEMs reduce component size and weight

With the increasing amount of electrical content within vehicles, the automotive
industry is challenged to find solutions that reduce component packaging and
weight without impacting performance.

To address this need, TE Connectivity (TE), a world leader in connectivity and sensors, has developed PicoMQS miniaturized automotive connector system. Designed for space-constrained signal interfaces that require automotive-grade robustness, optimized performance, minimized packaging and ease of manufacturing, PicoMQS connector system is uniquely suited for harsh high-vibration and high-temperature automotive applications.

With a 55% reduction in crimp length and 78% reduction in packaging space (compared to existing 0.64mm connector systems), it is the smallest automotive qualified crimped terminal, connector and header system on the market.

PicoMQS connector system is used in connections within vehicle sub-systems or modules, often known as “black boxes,” including headlamp and steering wheel units as well as vehicle cameras. In addition, the PicoMQS connector system supports fat-flexible (FFC) and flexible-printed (FPC) cables often used in EV battery management systems facilitating routing around compact complex battery geometries. 

“Reducing the size and weight of components can have a positive impact on how a vehicle performs and the fuel economy it delivers, so it’s logical that OEMs are pushing for more miniaturized solutions,” said Boris Ketscher, product manager at TE. “TE’s PicoMQS miniaturized automotive connector system is just what the industry needs. It’s an excellent solution that meets requirements.”

An addition to the highly successful NanoMQS and MQS connector system product families, PicoMQS connector system is a ground-breaking automotive-grade interconnection system with a 1.27mm pitch and a clearance and creepage distance of 0.46mm. The PicoMQS receptacle contact is designed for 0.5 x 0.4mm tabs and terminates wires with 0.13 to 0.22mm2 cross section. By offering an automotive-grade connector system on this level of miniaturization, TE is supporting a key requirement in the automotive industry.

For more information, visit te.com/automotive.