Overview
IEC 62946-02:2017 is an IEC detail specification for 8‑way, unshielded, free and fixed high‑density connectors intended for data transmission up to 250 MHz and for extra‑low‑voltage currents up to 1 A. This edition (including the March 2020 corrigendum) defines common dimensions and the mechanical, electrical, signal‑integrity and environmental characteristics and required tests for these compact connector pairs (fixed connectors mounted to PCBs and free connectors attached to wires).
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope & hardware morphology
- 8‑way, unshielded, high‑density free and fixed connector pairs (fixed = PCB mounted; free = wire/cable attached).
- Detailed contact interface dimensions and pin/pair grouping assignments.
- Electrical characteristics
- Limits and test methods for contact resistance, initial insulation resistance, voltage proof, and current–temperature derating (derating curve included).
- Requirements for input‑to‑output resistance and unbalance.
- Transfer impedance and related electrical checks where applicable.
- Signal integrity parameters
- Defined measurement criteria for insertion loss (IL), return loss (RL), NEXT, FEXT, propagation delay, delay skew, TCL and TCTL up to 250 MHz.
- Mechanical characteristics
- Specified mechanical operation, insertion/withdrawal forces, mating conditions and endurance.
- Environmental and reliability testing
- Climatic classification, creepage and clearance distances, and a full test schedule covering groups such as preliminary tests, mechanical endurance, climatic, corrosion, moisture, dynamic stress, latch/cable stress and signal‑integrity verification.
- Referenced standards
Practical applications
IEC 62946‑02 is targeted at designers and manufacturers who need a standardized specification for compact, unshielded data connectors where moderate frequency (≤250 MHz) and low current (≤1 A) requirements apply. Typical uses include:
- Compact data links and internal wiring in electronic equipment
- PCB‑to‑cable interfaces in consumer, telecommunications and industrial electronics
- High‑density harness connectors where space and signal integrity at HF frequencies matter
Who should use this standard
- Connector manufacturers and component designers specifying form, fit and electrical performance
- PCB designers and system engineers selecting interconnects for data links up to 250 MHz
- Test laboratories and quality teams conducting conformity and reliability testing
- Procurement and compliance professionals verifying vendor claims against IEC requirements
Related standards
- IEC 60068‑1 - Environmental testing: general guidance
- IEC 60512 series - Connectors for electronic equipment - tests and measurements
- IEC 60050‑581 - IEV: Electromechanical components vocabulary
Keywords: IEC 62946-02, 8‑way connector, high‑density connector, unshielded connector, 250 MHz data transmission, connector standard, signal integrity, contact resistance, environmental testing.