I-PEX 20438-030T-01: A micro-connector solution for high-speed differential signals of thin and light devices

As the demand for electronic devices to become thinner, smaller, and capable of high-speed data transmission increases, connectors and cables play an increasingly critical role in system performance. Extremely fine coaxial cables (micro coaxial cable) are widely used in differential signal transmission scenarios due to their high frequency, low loss, excellent shielding performance, and flexibility advantages. As a representative of miniature high-speed connectors, I-PEX 20438-030T-01 takes into account both high-speed differential signal and power transmission, providing a reliable interconnection solution for thin and light devices, high-definition displays, and industrial interfaces.

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Product Overview of I-PEX 20438-030T-01

I-PEX 20438-030T-01 belongs to the FPL II series, featuring a 0.5 mm pitch, 30pin vertical socket design, which can be used in conjunction with the corresponding plug and receptacle. This series supports micro coaxial and micro twinax cables, with a maximum data transmission rate of 12 Gbps/lane, meeting the high-speed interface standards of eDP HBR2, HDMI 2.0, etc. At the same time, it can carry AWG #32 power lines, achieving coexistence of signals and power. The product has passed environmental certifications such as ROHS/REACH, PFAS-Free, halogen-free and red phosphorus-free, combining high-speed performance with environmental adaptability, and is suitable for thin and dense design scenarios.

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Part 2: Micro Coaxial Cable and Differential Signal Characteristics

The extremely fine coaxial cable structure is simple and has excellent shielding performance, consisting of a central conductor, dielectric, and shielding layer, and is suitable for miniaturization and high-density wiring. Differential signal design relies on symmetrical wiring, mutually compensating for interference, with key parameters including characteristic impedance (usually 100Ω differential), wire length matching, and grounding design. The I-PEX 20438-030T-01 effectively enhances EMI suppression capability through multiple ground points and shell shielding (ZenShield structure), while supporting mixed wiring of high-speed data and power, making the harness structure more compact and integrated, meeting the requirements of thin and light equipment and high-speed interfaces.

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III. Differential Signal Design Recommendations

The lengths of the lines should be consistent: the length error of the micro-coaxial differential pair should be controlled within ±5 mm to ensure signal synchronization.
Impedance control: Connectors, PCB, and harness design should maintain a unified differential impedance of about 100 Ω to avoid signal reflections.
Interference Suppression: Utilizing multiple grounding points and shielding enclosures to reduce interference from adjacent signals, ensuring clear eye diagrams.
Power and Signal Isolation: When using AWG #32 power lines, wiring should be kept away from differential pairs, and shielding or increasing the spacing between differential pairs should be added as necessary to ensure signal integrity.

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I-PEX 20438-030T-01 integrates high-speed differential signal and power transmission capabilities, featuring high-frequency support, miniaturized design, and strong anti-EMI performance. It is an ideal choice for applications such as thin and light devices, high-definition displays, and industrial interfaces. To fully utilize its high-speed stable characteristics, strict control of impedance, differential pair matching, and grounding design must be maintained during use, ensuring reliable operation of high-performance interconnection systems.

I amSuzhou Huichengyuan Electronic TechnologyLong-term focus on the design and customization of high-speed signal cable harnesses and ultra-fine coaxial cable harnesses, committed to providing stable and reliable high-speed interconnection solutions. If you have relevant needs or want to learn more, please contact Manager Yin:18913280527（WeChat number）。