IEC 61076-4-104:1999

Overview

IEC 61076-4-104:1999 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies printed board connectors designed for direct current (d.c.), low frequency analogue, and high-speed digital data applications. This detailed specification addresses two-part modular connectors featuring a basic grid of 2.0 mm and terminations on a multiple grid of 0.5 mm. Recognized under the IEC Quality Assessment System for Electronic Components (IECQ) as QC 480301XX0005, the standard ensures assessed quality and reliable performance for connectors used in critical electronic systems.

Key Topics

The standard covers comprehensive technical and dimensional requirements for modular connectors, emphasizing:

• Connector Types and Variants
  Includes specifications for complete connector pairs, fixed board connectors (embases), free board connectors (plugs), and accessories to support diverse application needs.

• Mechanical and Electrical Characteristics
  Defines ratings such as voltage, current limits, contact resistance, insulation resistance, and mechanical robustness including insertion/extraction forces and retention capabilities.

• Dimensional Details and Mounting Instructions
  Provides precise measurements for connector housing, contact arrangements, mating direction, permissible misalignments, and module sizes to facilitate compatibility and ease of assembly.

• Shielding and Grounding
  Specifies techniques for mass continuity and electromagnetic shielding to enhance signal integrity in high speed data environments.

• Testing and Quality Assurance
  Details extensive testing programs including endurance, electrical performance, mechanical stress, and flammability to ensure compliance with stringent reliability requirements.

• Marking and Identification
  Standardizes type designation, marking, and ordering information to simplify procurement and ensure traceability.

Applications

IEC 61076-4-104 connectors are fundamental components in electronics systems requiring dependable signal transmission and power delivery at d.c. and low frequency analogue signals alongside digital high-speed data communication. Typical practical applications include:

• Industrial automation systems relying on reliable sensor and actuator connections
• Communication equipment supporting high-speed digital data transfer
• Consumer electronics where compact, modular connectors enable flexible PCB assembly
• Automotive electronic control units requiring robust connectors for low frequency and digital signals
• Medical devices demanding assured quality in signal integrity and connectivity
• Aerospace and defense electronics where stringent reliability and precise mechanical specifications are critical

Using connectors compliant with IEC 61076-4-104 ensures interoperable, high-quality connections tailored for demanding electronic applications with requirements for assessed quality and precise mechanical tolerances.

Related Standards

To ensure comprehensive compliance and integration in electronic design, IEC 61076-4-104 should be considered alongside related IEC standards such as:

• IEC 61076-1 – General requirements for connectors for electronic equipment
• IEC 60050 – International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) covering terminology and definitions related to electrical components
• IEC 60417 and IEC 60617 – Graphical symbols for electrical and electronic diagrams, aiding standardization in documentation
• IEC 60027 – Letter symbols used in electrotechnology, relevant for marking and documentation of connectors
• Additional parts of IEC 61076 series addressing other connector types and grids for diverse applications

Integrating these standards supports uniformity in design, manufacturing, and documentation of connectors, ensuring their suitability for high-performance electronic applications.

Keywords: IEC 61076-4-104, printed board connectors, modular connectors, d.c. applications, low frequency analogue, digital high-speed data, connector specification, IECQ quality assessment, connector dimensions, connector testing, electronic connectors standard, signal integrity connectors, industrial connectors, PCB connectors.