ACC17DRMH-S288

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

• What are the key design considerations when integrating the ACC17DRMH-S288 into a legacy system that originally used a different card edge connector? The ACC17DRMH-S288 is a 34-position dual female edge connector with0.100" (2.54mm) pitch and 0.062" (1.57mm) card thickness. When migrating from an alternative connector, verify that the PCB edge thickness matches the 0.062" specification, as undersized or oversized cards will result in poor contact pressure and intermittent connections. The dual-row, straddle-mount design of the ACC17DRMH-S288 requires symmetrical card insertion, so asymetric card designs may require mechanical redesign. Additionally, confirm that the original connector used the same contact material and finish; the ACC17DRMH-S288's beryllium copper contacts with gold finish (30µin) provide superior wear resistance compared to alternatives with lighter plating, which becomes critical in high-cycle insertion applications.
• Can the ACC17DRMH-S288 be used as a hot-swap connector, and what precautions are necessary? The ACC17DRMH-S288 uses a loop bellows contact design, which is inherently suitable for repeated mating cycles due to its compliance and contact pressure characteristics. However, the connector is not specifically rated as a hot-swap connector in the sense of live insertion under power. If live insertion is required, the application must implement sequencing logic or protection circuitry to prevent inrush currents or signal glitches during partial insertion of the ACC17DRMH-S288. The dual-row configuration means that pins on opposite rows may mate at different times during insertion; firmware or hardware must accommodate this transient state. For mission-critical applications, cold-swap operation (power-down before insertion) is recommended to maximize the operational lifespan of the ACC17DRMH-S288.
• What wire gauge and termination method should be used with the ACC17DRMH-S288's wire-wrap terminals? The ACC17DRMH-S288 specifies wire-wrap termination, which typically accommodates 26–30 AWG solid copper wire. Standard wire-wrap tool specifications call for wraps around a 0.025" post diameter with 1.5–2 turns of insulation-piercing contact. For the ACC17DRMH-S288, use 28 AWG wire as the baseline; this provides adequate current-carrying capacity for most signal and low-power applications while maintaining reliable wrap geometry. Ensure that wrapped wires do not exceed the connector's height clearance if the assembly will be used in confined spaces. The contact material of the ACC17DRMH-S288 (beryllium copper with gold plating) provides reliable gas-tight connections when properly wrapped; avoid over-wrapping, which can deform the post and compromise contact resistance.
• How does the operating temperature range of the ACC17DRMH-S288 affect material selection in extreme environments? The ACC17DRMH-S288 is rated for -65°C to 150°C, which covers most industrial and aerospace applications. The connector's insulation material is polyphenylene sulfide (PS), chosen for its thermal stability and dimensional consistency across this range. At the lower extreme (-65°C), PS retains rigidity and does not become brittle, maintaining proper card alignment and contact pressure. At the upper extreme (150°C), the ACC17DRMH-S288's PS insulation does not undergo crep, preserving mechanical tolerances. However, wiring and associated components connected to the ACC17DRMH-S288 must also be rated for this full range; standard PVC insulation on wires will degrade above 80°C, so high-temperature wire (Teflon or silicone) is required if the application approaches the upper temperature limit. The gold plating on the ACC17DRMH-S288's contacts remains stable across this range and does not undergo recrystallization or migration.
• What is the maximum current per contact for the ACC17DRMH-S288, and how does this affect power distribution in multi-row configurations? The ACC17DRMH-S288 datasheet does not explicitly state a per-contact current rating, which is typical for card-edge connectors designed primarily for signal distribution. However, the beryllium copper contacts with gold finish (30µin thickness) are suitable for currents in the 1–3 ampere range per contact under typical operating conditions, depending on ambient temperature and duty cycle. Since the ACC17DRMH-S288 has 34 positions in a dual-row configuration, power distribution across multiple contacts is recommended to avoid localized heating. If the application requires power delivery (such as supplying a daughtercard), distribute the load across at least 4–6 dedicated power contacts on the ACC17DRMH-S288 to keep individual contact temperatures within the -65°C to 150°C operating range. Localized heating at a single contact can degrade the gold plating prematurely and increase contact resistance.
• Is the ACC17DRMH-S288 suitable for aerospace or military applications, and what compliance certifications should be verified? The ACC17DRMH-S288 carries RoHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, indicating suitability for commercial and industrial applications within the European regulatory framework. For aerospace applications, verify MIL-SPEC or AS9100 certification through the manufacturer; the ACC17DRMH-S288 itself is not explicitly qualified to MIL-DTL-50181 or equivalent military standards based on publicly available data. For military or defense use, the ECCN classification (EAR99) indicates that the ACC17DRMH-S288 does not require export authorization, but end-use restrictions may apply depending on the destination and application. The Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) rating of 1 (unlimited) for the ACC17DRMH-S288 means no special dry-pack storage is required, simplifying logistics for aerospace and military stockpiling. If formal aerospace qualification is required, coordinate with Sullins Connector Solutions to determine whether the ACC17DRMH-S288 can be produced under AS9100 processes or whether a military-equivalent part number is available.
• What are the signal integrity implications of using the ACC17DRMH-S288 for high-speed digital signals, and what design precautions are necessary? The ACC17DRMH-S288 is a dual-row edge connector with 0.100" pitch and loop bellows contacts. For high-speed digital signals (above 10 MHz), the relatively large pitch and contact inductance of the ACC17DRMH-S288 introduce impedance discontinuities that can cause signal reflections and crosstalk. The dual-row configuration also means signal traces on opposite sides of the PCB edge will have different path lengths to the connector, introducing skew. When using the ACC17DRMH-S288 for clocking or high-speed differential pairs, implement controlled-impedance traces on the PCB and match trace lengths carefully. The 0.062" card thickness of the ACC17DRMH-S288 also affects the characteristic impedance of the transmission line formed between the card and the connector contacts; model this in your CAD tool before layout. For signals above 50 MHz, consider whether a smaller-pitch or high-speed connector alternative might be more appropriate than the ACC17DRMH-S288.
• Can the ACC17DRMH-S288 be directly replaced with a competitor connector such as the Amphenol or TE Connectivity equivalent, and what are the mechanicald electrical differences? Direct replacement of the ACC17DRMH-S288 with competitor parts requires careful evaluation of multiple parameters. Amphenol and TE Connectivity offer similar 34-position dual edge connectors, but subtle differences can cause integration failure: pitch (0.100" for the ACC17DRMH-S288 must match the replacement), card thickness (0.062" is critical; oversized cards will not seat properly), contact material (beryllium copper with 30µin gold on the ACC17DRMH-S288 vs. phosphor bronze or other alloys on alternatives), and mounting style (board-edge straddle mount on the ACC17DRMH-S288 may differ from competitors' implementations). The loop bellows contact geometry of the ACC17DRMH-S288 provides different contact pressure characteristics than alternatives with cantilever or fork-style contacts; this affects insertion force and wear patterns. Before committing to a replacement, request mechanical drawings and contact samples from the alternative supplier, then perform insertion testing with your actual PCB. A seemingly compatible part may have tighter clearances, different flange heights, or inferior plating, all of which will degrade reliability compared to the ACC17DRMH-S288.
• What preventive maintenance and inspection intervals are recommended for the ACC17DRMH-S288 in continuous industrial operation? The ACC17DRMH-S288 with its beryllium copper contacts and gold plating requires minimal preventive maintenance in stable indoor environments. However, industrial settings with thermal cycling, vibration, or corrosive atmospheres, inspect the connector every 12–24 months for signs of corrosion, oxidation, or contact wear. The gold plating (30µin thickness) provides protection against most corosive environments, but sulfurous industrial air or salt spray can eventually breach the plating if the ACC17DRMH-S288 is exposed. If the application experiences repeated insertion cycles (card extender usage), monitor contact resistance; if resistance exceeds 50 mΩ per contact, the ACC17DRMH-S288 should be replaced. The PS insulation material is resistant to most industrial solvents and oils, but avoid prolonged contact with aromatic hydrocarbons or acetone, which can cause swelling. For applications operating at the upper temperature extreme (150°C), verify that surrounding components are not degrading faster than the ACC17DRMH-S288, as this may indicate thermal management issues that will ultimately compromise connector reliability.
• How should the ACC17DRMH-S288 be handled and stored to prevent damage before installation? The ACC17DRMH-S288 is supplied in tray packaging with Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) 1, meaning no dry-pack storage is required; standard warehouse conditions are acceptable. However, the loop bellows contacts and gold plating are susceptible to mechanical damage if the connector is dropped or the contacts are pressed inward during storage. Store the ACC17DRMH-S288 upright or on its back (contact side up) to prevent pressure on the contacts. Avoid stacking heavy components on top of trayed ACC17DRMH-S288 connectors. Before installation, visually inspect the contact area for bent or flattened bellows; if damage is visible, the ACC17DRMH-S288 should not be used, as contact pressure will be compromised. When handling the ACC17DRMH-S288, use static-safe practices (wrist strap) if the application involves sensitive components; although the connector itself is robust, the card or circuit board it will mate with may be ESD-sensitive. Allow the ACC17DRMH-S288 to reach ambient temperature if it has been stored in a cold environment before mating, as temperature differentials can cause condensation and temporary adhesion.