Features and Benefits
As devices increasingly require more signals, electrodes and advanced capabilities, engineers seek compact designs that accommodate robust and adaptable connector solutions. Most traditional connectors able to meet increased signal demands are bulky and expensive, leading to less ergonomic catheter designs, high manufacturing costs and long development timelines. Because healthcare markets focus on affordability, engineers must deliver economical solutions for disposable components while maintaining superior quality.
Engineers require compact, modular designs that integrate high-density contacts without increasing the overall size, weight or cost. Additionally, customizable designs are essential to meet the diverse criteria of medical devices. Designers also need durable connectors resistant to damage during handling and operation, which helps reduce failure rates and extend a product’s life cycle.
Leveraging a large contact count in a small footprint, EdgeStack Medical Connectors utilize high-density card edge connector technology to enable advanced catheter functionality. These connectors provide a modular, semi off-the-shelf connector platform that allows rapid platform design and tooling cost reduction. Enabling an ergonomic, compact device design, durable EdgeStack Medical Connectors shorten development timelines, reduce upfront costs and accelerate time to market.
Applications by Industry
Cardiovascular Catheter Component Technology Design
Diagnostics/Imaging Equipment
Electrophysiology
Endoscopy Equipment
General Medical Equipment
This is not a definitive list of applications for this product. It represents some of the more common uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are EdgeStack Medical Connectors?
EdgeStack Medical Connectors are compact, modular card edge connectors offering durable cost-effective disposable options, protected contact interfaces and customizable high-density configurations. These connectors help ensure reliable, compliant designs that accelerate development, reduce costs and enhance functionality for advanced medical devices.
Are EdgeStack Medical Connectors customizable?
Yes, EdgeStack Medical Connectors can be customized for specific designs. For example, selective contact loading and different module counts can be considered.
What voltage can this connector handle?
Contacts next to each other on the same side of a board are rated for 150V DC, while those on different sides of the board can support up to 1,500V DC. Contacts in different bays or that are arranged module to module can handle up to 3,500V DC. An evaluation of the electrical specifications is recommended for the best application configuration.
How many mating cycles can this product support?
EdgeStack Medical Connectors offer two optional mating halves. The first is an FR4 board (or similar) designed for disposable or very low cycle‑count applications. The FR4 side is rated for approximately 10 to 20 mating cycles, while the EdgeStack module side is rated for 1,000 cycles. The second is a stamped paddle card designed for a high mate‑life interface with the card edge connector. Both the stamped paddle card side and the EdgeStack module side are rated for 5,000+ mating cycles.
What is the minimum pin count supported with this product family?
It is best to work with a minimum of 16 contacts for optimal handling.