By selecting I-PEX's locking micro RF connector with a wireless module (Fig. 1) that allows for installation space, the mechanical retention and stability of the wireless module and antenna connection are significantly enhanced. This solution is ideal for devices operating in environments with vibration and impact, ensuring stability and reliability in network communication.

 

Example: Locking solution with MHF^® 4L LK

Supports up to 12 GHz / Mated height 2.0 mm max.

*4.5 mm pitch is M.2 standard compatible. The clearance for the connector layout is not M.2 standard compatible.

Fig. 1 I-PEX’s locking solution on a wireless module with sufficient installation space 

Drawing: Component placement prohibited area for MHF 4L receptacle mated with MHF 4L LK harness

Video: How to lock the connector

 

The steady and now rapidly increasing landscape of connected devices within the “Internet of Things” world are powered by a variety of connectivity protocols (Cellular M2M, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GNSS, etc). This ever-expanding portfolio of connected devices ranging in size from small tracking devices for pets and keys to large agricultural equipment and commercial trucking fleets. In fact, there are not many things that cannot be enabled for location and data transmission in some form or another.

Cellular M2M modules have evolved with cellular standards from 2G/3G GSM & CDMA to the present 4G/5G iterations with LTE and new mmWave possibilities available for fast and reliable data transfers. During this transition we have seen modules, and therefore, connectors, shrink in size and cost from MMCX to small, micro-RF connectors. One of the unintentional effects of size reduction is a less robust mechanical retention between mated pairs of connectors. A common, and often voiced, complaint is the signal loss of micro-RF connectors due to mechanical disengagement, which is often referred to as “pop-up” or “pop-off.” 

 

To help solve this issue without relying on epoxy, tie downs, or other methods, I-PEX has designed a locking solution for MHF I and MHF 4L harnesses. This locking feature, available in 0.81, 1.13, 1.32, 1.37, and 1.80 cable sizes for MHF I and 1.37 for MHF 4L (only), increases the amount of force to disengage the plug due to shock and/or vibration (Fig. 2).

Fig. 2 Connector with lock improves retention force

 

MHF I LK : Locking solution that works with MHF I receptacles and supports up to 9 GHz; mated height of 2.9 mm max

Fig. 3 Multiple lock connectors layout image on wireless module (MHF^® I LK) 

 

MHF 4L LK : Locking solution that works with MHF 4/4L receptacles, the M.2 industry standard; mated height of 2.0 mm max.; excellent electrical performance up to 12 GHz

Fig.4 Multiple lock connectors layout image on wireless module (MHF^® 4L LK)

 

 

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