GTK has introduced the first 5 mm pitch power connector with size 16 contacts to be current rated at up to 40 A per contact. The new GPC (Global Power Connector) range is designed to be physically interchangeable and 'intermateable' with US manufactured industry standard 5 mm pitch connectors of a similar design.

The new connectors are designed for use in power supply units for high-current industrial and leisure equipment, uninterruptible power supplies, backplanes and basestations. GTK intends to offer samples within two weeks and production quantities within six to eight weeks.

The GPC range comprises a wide variety of compact through-hole PCB mounted rectangular power connectors with pin counts from 3 to 30, in from one to three rows. Voltage rating is 600 V, meeting UL and CSA specifications. Rated lifetime is 1000 mating cycles.

The contacts are rated at either 30 A or 40 A (as per IEC 512-3 Test 5a) — up to 60% greater than for other size 16 contacts on the market. The higher rated contacts use a new 'Spinnaker' clip design (patent pending) to maximise the surface contact area between the male and female connectors, reducing power dissipation and thermal emission. All GPC contacts are removable for ease of repair or replacement in the field.

GPCs have a wide operating temperature range from –50ºC to +180ºC. During assembly, they are resistant to the temperatures and thermal shocks associated with infrared reflow soldering of surface-mount components.

"Our market research showed that OEMs were looking for an alternative 5 mm pitch rectangular power connector with a higher current rating yet no trade-off in terms of surface area," said GTK’s European Distribution Manager Rob Parnell. "With the GPC range, we can provide not only that but also improved thermal resistance and faster turnaround, as well as lower cost."
GPCs are available in PCB-to-PCB, PCB-to-cable and cable-to-cable options, with straight and right-angle versions. Sequential mating and colour coding options are also available.