Packaging & Interconnects: Card Edge Connectors Get Aboard PCI Express

Recently released straddle-mount card edge connectors support high-speed serial PCI Express applications. They're available for one, four, eight, or 16 PCI Express lanes to match different bandwidth requirements. Each lane comprises differential transmit and receive signal pairs that support 2.5-Gbit/s data rates in each direction. Each connector's card accepts a 1.58-mm thick add-in card. Edge contacts are spaced on 1.0-mm pitches. A molded polarization key on the connector and a corresponding notch on the add-in card prevent improper insertion. Pricing for the series 10025026 connectors ranges from $1.74 to $3.54 each in quantities of 1000 units. Lead time is stock to five weeks.