A new line of Mini-HMC™ heavy-duty connectors from Molex Incorporated provides up to a 65 percent space savings for applications such as small robots, industrial controls, factory automation, and production and medical equipment. The Mini-HMC system is the first rectangular I/O connector system to offer a similar form and function as traditional heavy duty hard-shell connectors, but in a much smaller size.
Molex adapted and downsized some of the unique features of its existing line of HMC (Heavy Duty Modular) robotics connectors into the Mini-HMC system. A crescent-shaped metal hood with single action lock provides space savings and easy handling, versus double bale-lock types. The "one-touch" spring lock also enables the lever to be smoothly engaged and locked firmly into place.
The Mini-HMC system carries seven amps, which makes it suitable for both signal and power applications. The 3.00mm (.118") modular housings can be easily inserted and removed from the back-side of the die-cast panel-mount shell without any tools. This provides easier assembly and field-servicing compared to circular versions. Housings can also be placed on the cable hood or panel-mount sides for added design flexibility.
Housings come in modular units of ten circuits, with a maximum of 40 circuits per side. The Mini-HMC system uses crimp termination, which provides higher reliability and assembly productivity than competitive hand-solder versions. Terminals are gold-plated and available in 18-28 wire gauges.
Plug shells come with protective metal bell-cap assemblies and PVC inserts for cable and dust-debris protection. The Mini-HMC system complies with key industrial standards including VDE 0627/VDE0110, IEC 204-1/IEC 529 (IP65) and UL and CSA.
