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AirBorn Z Series Compression Interposer Connectors

AirBorn Z Series Compression Interposer Connectors deliver solderless, high-density board-to-board and flex circuit stacking for aerospace, defense, space and rugged industrial applications where reliability is essential. The patented one-piece contact system ensures consistent electrical continuity while rigid bodies and precision guide pins simplify alignment for repeatable, error-free assembly. Proven in extreme vibration, thermal cycling and high-shock environments, AirBorn Z Series connectors save board space, reduce costs and minimize failure points for lasting performance in mission-critical systems.

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Features and Benefits

For rugged industrial applications where electrical reliability is crucial, compact and durable connector solutions are a must. Designers require components that provide consistent performance under extreme vibration, high shock and harsh environmental conditions, while also reducing assembly complexity, cost and potential failure points. In these scenarios, flexible connectors are crucial for saving board space, supporting miniaturized layouts and enabling customization for demanding system requirements.

AirBorn Z Series Compression Interposer Connectors deliver high-density, solderless board-to-board and flexible circuit solutions for mission-critical applications. The patented z-axis compression contact system provides reliable electrical continuity while a wiping action maintains low resistance and eliminates foreign object debris, ensuring long-term performance over repeated cycles. With rigid bodies and precision guide pins, installation is simplified and error-free, supporting repeatable, stable alignment in challenging environments.

For applications that require space efficiency and customization, AirBorn Z Series connectors offer designs up to 175 contacts in two- to seven-row configurations with 0.050" (1.27mm) spacing. Selectively loaded contacts, multiple contacts per cavity for redundancy or power, and custom body shapes are also available. These features allow designers to maximize board space, reduce potential failure points and achieve zero outgassing for complex, high-density assemblies in satellites, helicopters, missiles, medical robotics and other mission-critical systems.

Patented Z-Axis Compression Contact System

In aerospace and industrial applications where high vibration and extreme operational environments are the norm, high-reliability connectors are critical. AirBorn Z Series Compression Interposer Connectors utilize a patented z-axis compression contact system that eliminates costly soldering steps while providing reliable electrical performance in extreme conditions.

High-Density, Space-Saving Design

Size and weight are significant factors when designing next-generation satellite and medical systems. AirBorn Z Series Compression Interposer Connector high-density options from 20 to 175 contacts per connector maximize signal connectivity while minimizing board space, cost and overall weight.

Easy Alignment and Customization

Applications requiring high-density connectors face numerous difficulties, including automated manufacturing challenges and high costs. AirBorn Z Series Compression Interposer Connectors utilize ridged bodies and guide pins to simplify manufacturing while ensuring precise contact targeting.

Eliminates oxidization through contact wiping action
The contact wiping action of the AirBorn Z Series Compression Interposer Connectors helps to remove both oxidation and foreign object debris (FOD).

Simplifies manufacturing and repairability
Solderless design simplifies manufacturing and repairability by reducing labor and eliminating inspection steps, which lowers total assembly cost.

Ensures dependable performance in extreme environments
AirBorn Z Series connectors have proven reliable in missiles, helicopters, satellites and ruggedized computers, delivering reliable performance under the harshest conditions.

Provides reliable flexible connections
Flexible design enables compatibility with 3D-routed flex assemblies, supporting intricate, space-saving designs without compromising reliability.

Supports zero outgassing in space applications
For space and vacuum applications, these field-tested connectors are designed to eliminate gas releases that could lead to performance degradation and environmental contamination.

Enables versatile system integration
A range of body heights from 0.100 to 0.350" or more support multiple board stacking in complex assemblies.

Delivers consistent quality
These connectors are assembled in the US and follow stringent manufacturing standards.

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AirBorn Z Series Compression Interposer Connectors

Supporting miniaturization, space savings and flexible customization for advanced electronic assemblies, AirBorn Z Series Compression Interposer Connectors are proven in extreme vibration and high-shock applications. These connectors utilize a compression contact system to deliver solderless, highly reliable interconnects, reducing assembly time, cost and risks.

Applications by Industry

Airframes
Avionics
Helicopters
Satellites

Missiles
Ruggedized Computers
Submarines

This is not a definitive list of applications for this product. It represents some of the more common uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are AirBorn Z Series Z-Axis Interposer Compression Connectors?

AirBorn Z Series connectors are solderless, high-density interposers that use patented z-axis compression contacts between parallel PCBs or components. They provide robust, reliable electrical connections without the need for soldering.

How do AirBorn Z Series connectors perform in harsh environments?

Rigid bodies and precision guide pins ensure stable alignment and reliable connections even in high-vibration and high-shock conditions. They have proven performance in defense and space applications, including missiles, helicopters, satellites and ruggedized computers.

What makes AirBorn Z series connectors different from pogo pins or traditional connectors?

The patented one-piece contact system features a wiping action that cleans pad surfaces, eliminates debris (FOD) and reduces resistance. Fewer connectors are needed per board stack, saving space, lowering cost and reducing potential failure points.

What contact counts and configurations are available?

AirBorn Z Series connectors come in two- to seven-row options with 20 to 175 contacts and 0.050" (1.27 mm) spacing, supporting body heights from 0.100 to 0.350" or higher. Contact patterns and loading can be customized to meet specific design requirements.

Can AirBorn Z Series connectors be customized?

Yes, they can be tailored with custom bodies, contact arrangements and multiple contacts per cavity for redundancy or increased power handling. Prototypes and laser-cut units are also available for design testing and early-stage validation.

Are AirBorn Z Series connectors suitable for space applications?

Yes, AirBorn Z Series connectors feature zero outgassing and are designed for use in satellites, launch vehicles, airframes and other extreme vacuum environments.

How are AirBorn Z Series connectors installed?

The connector is simply aligned and compressed between PCBs or components using the rigid body and guide pins for error-proof assembly. No soldering or special tools are required.

How does the contact wiping action benefit reliability?

The contact wiping action removes oxidation from PCB pads, ensuring low resistance and maintaining reliable connections over repeated mating cycles.

What industries use AirBorn Z Series connectors?

AirBorn Z Series connectors are used across defense, space, industrial automation, mining and robotics, as well as in applications including medical devices and ruggedized computers, wherever high-reliability, solderless connectors are required.