Amphenol's PwrBlade® power distribution connector system includes power and signal contacts to provide power distribution and power control in a single connector. Options for either vertical or right-angle versions of PCB-mount headers and receptacles deliver support for coplanar, backplane, or mezzanine connections. The connectors are ideal for robust power connections to embedded AC/DC power supplies or for board-to-board connections in servers, storage enclosures, and communications equipment.

Initially developed to enable the implementation of Server System Infrastructure (SSI), standards for distributed power supplies (DPS), mid-range power supplies (MPS), and high-end power supplies (HPS), PwrBlade connectors are also available in a wide variety of other configurations with either solder or press-fit board termination. The connectors can also be customized to address unique application requirements.

PwrBlade connectors can be provided with one to 20 power contacts and zero to 148 signal contacts. Individual power contacts are rated at 48 A current-carrying capacity; connector configurations with multiple power contacts are rated at 30 A per power contact as tested for +30°C temperature rise in still air. An available cable port option provides segregated AC contacts for cable pass-through applications.

Capability for two levels of sequential mating for power contacts and two levels for signal contacts can support up to three levels of sequencing of power and signals. Sequential mating of ground, followed by power and signals, can be used to provide “hot swap” capability. Molded guide posts on the header engage with the corresponding receptacle connector to assure alignment during blind-mating.