Molex Offers Connector Security with SD Memory Cards

Electronic News, April 23, 2001 by Bernard Levine

MOLEX INC., LISLE, ILL., SAYS YOU CAN MAXIMIZE MEMORY capacity functionality and flexibility for compact and portable electronic equipment using its secure digital (SD) memory card connectors. Molex (nasdaq: MOLX) has introduced a new range of SD connectors that accept miniature flash memory cards up to 64Mbytes for applications such as PDAs, portable audio players, digital cameras and cell phones. The connectors include card-detect and write-protect switch functions to enable secure downloading of digital data such as audio or image files.

SD card technology is an open standard supported by the SD Association that represents more than 175 member companies. Molex's SD card connectors are offered in top- and bottom-mount styles and measure 3.10mm high. Both nine-circuit versions accept industry-standard SD memory cards and include metal grounding covers for ESD protection. Each features a push-push ejection system for easy card insertion/extraction and secure card retention, it was said. Other features include beveled spring contacts for secure mating retention and offset terminals for first-make/last-break capabilities. The 2.50mm pitch connectors are rated at 0.5A and can withstand up to 10,000 cycles. They come in embossed tape for automatic board mounting.

Pricing depends on model and quantity ordered. In quantities of 50,000, it costs approximately $2.50 per unit. Depending on the volume ordered, the lead-time is typically eight to 10 weeks.