| Pitch | Mated Height | Circuit Size | Power Pin Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.50mm | 8.00 to 35.00mm | 20 to 240 | Up to 50.0A |
Features and Benefits
Vehicles require increasing levels of real-time processing for extremely high amounts of data. Designers and integrators of ultra-high-speed and reliable automotive modules need connectors that operate at high speeds while maintaining excellent signal integrity. ZN Stack connectors provide ultra-fast data connections for vehicle functionality. These connections are controlled by centralized high-speed compute master controllers capable of multi-threaded processing to execute core and high-logic functions as the “brain” of the vehicle.
To drive down cost, improve reliability and address needs for ever-increasing power requirements, system designers need high-power internal connectors created to meet design, thermal and reliability requirements for high-performance, multi-PCB modules. ZN Stack connectors have high-current power terminal options for each form factor with up to 50.0A of two-way power transfer. These connectors transfer power between PCBs with highly optimized, automotive-grade connectors, reducing the need for external power inputs to each PCB.
Designers and integrators of ultra-high-speed and reliable automotive modules seek confidence in how to easily select and design in connectors for real-time processing in safety and communications systems. Manufacturers also require ease of design for infotainment systems in compact, space-saving modules. ZN Stack connectors are automotive-validated, high-speed connectors supporting up to 32Gbps data rate in a compact footprint. Molex provides up-front support, engineering assistance, systems-level simulation and testing to ensure best-in-class design quality.
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Applications by Industry
ADAS applications
Advanced driver and passenger infotainment systems
Advanced high-speed communication gateways
Software-defined vehicles (SDV)
Zonal/high-speed computing systems
High-shock/high-vibration environments
This is not a definitive list of applications for this product. It represents some of the more common uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are ZN Stack Connectors?
ZN Stack Connectors are a family of automotive‑grade, high‑speed, high-current, board-to-board connectors with a floating feature developed for automotive electronics in compact designs.
What are the benefits of floating board-to-board connectors in automotive radar/ADAS?
Floating board-to-board connectors feature a ±1.00mm float capability that absorbs intense road shock and vibration, protecting fragile solder joints and ensuring uninterrupted signal integrity for vital safety data. Additionally, the self-alignment feature and generous lead-in geometry help prevent pin damage during automated, blind-mate robotic assembly.
How do ZN Stack Connectors support software-defined vehicle (SDV) architectures?
These connectors deliver the ultra-high speeds (up to 32Gbps) and protocol support (PCIe 5.0, Ethernet) required by centralized master controllers processing massive, multi-threaded sensor data. A tight 0.50mm pitch also allows engineers to stack multi-PCB processing modules within highly dense, compact zonal enclosures.
Can a single connector handle both high-speed Ethernet data and high-current power?
Yes, these connectors utilize a hybrid layout that pairs 0.5A signal pins for high-speed Ethernet with dedicated high-current power terminals in a single footprint. ZN Stack connectors can safely transfer up to 50.0A of two-way power, eliminating the need for separate power lines between PCBs.
How good are these connectors for high-speed performance?
Molex has signal integrity (SI) data with both S-parameter overview/data and SI models available as indications of what level of SI performance is possible when using ZN Stack connectors.
How do I ensure optimal SI performance?
It is important to follow best practices for SI, using differentiated pair signaling and using proper ground-pin assignments. ZN Stack connectors offer excellent SI performance through single ground pin assignment. Additionally, optimal PCB routing is important to ensure good end-to-end SI performance. Contact Molex to discuss best practices in SI routing using the ZN Stack system.
What pin assignments are supported/relevant?
Molex supports several common heights and pin counts, and additional variants may be accommodated. Contact Molex to discuss your specific needs to see how we can support your application needs.
Can I use multiple high-speed protocols with the ZN Stack Connectors?
Yes. Multiple protocols may be used if recommended pin-assignment and PCB-routing guidelines are followed.
How do I ensure optimal power performance when using this connector on power pins? What are the PCB recommendations?
Power ratings for ZN Stack connectors use PCB power routing assumptions that employ the best practices of copper weight and layering. Optimizing PCB power routing may enable even better-rated power performance. Contact Molex to discuss power-rating optimization.
How automation-friendly are these connectors; how much mechanical lead-in is supported by these connectors?
ZN Stack connectors offer both lead-in guiding and self-alignment features that facilitate ease of mating, such as what is needed with automation for joining connectors. Additionally, the connectors can float in the X and Y dimensions. Consult with Molex to discuss the optimal ways to mate, as well as best practices for additional mechanical features for the board-to-board assembly.