Top vs Bottom Entry: A Manufacturer's Guide to FPC Connector Orientation

FPC cables are produced from flexible materials (materials that can be folded and bent), which can alleviate spatial pressure in device interconnection and enable thinner and lighter devices. FPC connectors are mainly used in various digital communication products, portable electronic devices, computer peripherals, measuring instruments, automotive electronics, and Other fields, such as mobile phones, digital cameras, laptops, MID, MP3/4/5, handheld gaming consoles, audio systems, etc.

 

Many people are unaware that FPC connectors can be categorized as top-contact or bottom-contact. To determine whether a Connector is top-contact or bottom-contact, simply place the FPC Connector on the PCB board and observe whether the contact surface of the connector's metal terminal pins is on the top or bottom. If it is on the top, it is a top-contact connector; if it is on the bottom, it is a bottom-contact connector. Most FPC connectors on the market are bottom-contact. However, there is a new type of connector currently available that can be inserted from the front and opened from the back, allowing for dual-sided contact. This type of connector has bumps on both the top and bottom, indicating that it supports both top and bottom contact.

 

The FPC interface, also known as a flexible cable connector, is now mostly used for connecting LCD display screens to driver circuits (PCBs). The most common specification is the 0.4mm FPC interface. However, with technological advancements, more and more industries are adopting FPC interfaces. Connector manufacturer Yangzhan Electronics produces various models of FPC interfaces with readily available stock. Click on the "Product Center" to select a model and place an order.

 

The FPC interface connects the FPC flexible cable to the device port. The two interfaces and a flexible cable together are referred to as an FPC connector. The materials used in its composition include:

 

1. Conductor  

FPC connector copper foil is suitable for flexible circuits. It can be electrodeposited or electroplated. One side of electrodeposited copper foil is smooth, while the other side has a matte surface. It is a flexible material that can be manufactured in various thicknesses and widths. The matte side of electrodeposited copper foil is often specially treated to enhance its bonding capability.

 

2. Insulating Film  

There are various types of insulating film materials for FPC connectors, but the most commonly used are polyimide and polyester materials.

 

3. Adhesive