Multi-direction PCB-to-everywhere else contacts

Feb 19, 2025

Harwin has added four height options to its multi-directional spring contact range, which now spans from 4 to 10mm.

“Although there are already many spring contacts that are suitable for vertical compression applications, it is less common to find parts that can also allow horizontal operation, Support for multi-directional operation is therefore appealing,” according to the company.

The new parts are: S1921-46R (4mm), S1931-46R (5.5mm) S1981-46R (8.5mm) and S1991-46R (10mm).

“We received many customer requests to develop more compact spring contacts, with smaller footprints and lower profiles, as well as taller option,” said Harwin product v-p Ryan Smart.

Current ratings can be as high as 14Amps, and the contacts are suitable for low-level power delivery, signal transfer and enclosure grounding. .

The copper alloy used “provides excellent spring properties over extended periods of time with mating durability of more than 5,000 cycles”, claimed Harwin.

Positive connection is available in both horizontal and vertical orientations, and the mating surface is suitable both wiping and sliding contact initiation.

Working height is slightly under the free height – 9.5mm for the nominally 10mm contact.

For automated assembly, the contacts are sold in tape-and-reel form.

They are typically used in communications equipment, consumer electronics, industrial control and monitoring systems, instrumentation, retail tracking devices and kiosks, said the Harwin.

As an example, find the 5.5mm S1931-46R product page here