Proper usage for LCD connectors

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We would like to show you how to properly connect and unconnect FFC (Flat Flexible Cables) to LCD connectors while avoiding to damage your product.  This How-to applies to any product listed within the following requirements.

 

Requirements:

• All MINI2440-based development boards
• TenByTen6410 development board
• MINI2410 development board
• All SKY2440-based development boards
• Plastic Enclosure with PCB Exchange Kit
• MegaDisplay 3 Including Touchscreen
• MegaDisplay 4 Including Touchscreen
• MegaDisplay 7 with Bezel and Touchscreen
• MegaDisplay 7S Including Touchscreen 

LCD Connector (bottom contact type)

 

 

*Note:

A mere force of only 6.9 Newtons is required for Hiteg product LCD connectors, which is very little.

Step 1: Connecting an FFC cable into the LCD connector

1.1 Lift-up the actuator with the thumb or index finger so that it is perpendicular to the PCB.

1.2 Fully insert the FFC parrallel to the mounting surface, with the exposed conductive traces facing down.

1.3 Rotate down the actuator until firmly closed.  It is critical that the inserted FFC is not moved and remains fully inserted.  Should the FFC be moved, open the actuator and repeat the process. starting with Step 1.

 

Step 2: Removing an FFC cable from an LCD connector

2.1 Lift up the actuator exactly the same as done in Step 1.1.

2.2 Carefully remove the FFC cable.

Precautions

Avoid grasping the actuator with two fingers or lifting the actuator with the fingernail.

Do not use a thin tool such as the tip of a screwdriver to release the lock lever.  Doing so will cause deformation fo the contacts.

Do not apply force in the direction of arrows A,B, or C while the lock lever is open.  Doing so will cause the lock lever to become disengaged, or will damage the hook portion to the connector body.

When inserting the FFC, do not forcefully rub against the surface beneath the connector insertion slot.  Doing so will result in the FFC forcefully striking the contacts and this will cause contact deformation, peeling of the FFC conductors, and other irregularities.

Insert the FFC at the proper position of the connector insertion slot, and insert it perpendicularly with respect to the connector.  Improper insertion will cause continuity problems, disengagement of the lock lever, and damage to the hook portion.

Partial insertion of the FFC, offset insertion, and diagonal insertion will result in an unfavorable engagement of the lock lever in which the lock lever is raised.  To correct this, first remove the FFC and then reinsert it.  Forcing the lock will damage the connector.

When locking, handle the FFC so that a load is not applied to the FFC as would occur by pulling the FFC, of lifting it, etc.  When a load is applied in the opposite direction to the rotational movement of the lock, an excessive load will be applied and this will cause connector damage.

At the time of lock operation, application of force such as that indicated by the arrows in the diagrams below will cause the lock lever to disengaged, please exchange the entire connector.

Congratulations!

You now have the knowledge of how to properly connect and unconnect FFC cables into LCD connectors.