Finding the right connector for automotive LED lighting can be challenging for designers. Connector solutions must meet extended operational safety, durability and reliability requirements, while also being physically and economically compact, and integrate easily with advanced electronics.
Advancements in intelligent automotive designs have resulted in a significant increase in data rates, functionality and performance, as well as growth in the amount of lighting needed for a typical vehicle. Supporting the needs of tier-1 carmakers, Molex offers a broad portfolio of products and capabilities that enable connectivity to advanced car lighting technologies.
Product Versatility
Due to their energy efficiency, weight reduction and space-saving advantages, LEDs remain the popular choice for car lighting applications. An LED drive module design for both headlights and rear lights can be supported by Molex connectivity solutions. Product such as DuraClik, Mini50 and MX64 Connector Systems fulfill multiple uses in a variety of applications. Some of these support sensing cameras, LIDAR, ECU, daytime running lights and more.
Meeting Miniaturization Needs
As more capabilities are packed into designs, miniaturization of components becomes crucial. Molex’s miniature connector offering includes DuraClik Wire-to-Board Connectors with terminal retainer options for superior electrical contact reliability in high-vibration and high-temperature applications. Additionally, our Mizu-P25 Wire-to-Wire Connector System is sealed and has IP67 certification and provides superior levels of dustproof and waterproof protection.
Demand for miniaturization and higher data rates in car electronics continue to rise, and Molex’s High-Speed FAKRA Mini (HFM) Coaxial Cable Solution responds to both, supporting 20 GHz of data speed for modern radar, cameras, LiDAR and sensor applications that are common in connected vehicles.
Providing Power
Fundamentally, lighting needs power, and Molex offers a broad range of power connectors that address requirements for automotive lighting. Whether a front headlight design is for an LED driver module, fog lights, LiDAR or sensor cameras, Molex has a connector that will meet specific requirements.
For rear-combination lamp-unit applications — tail, turn, rear fog and others — our solutions will meet the most challenging design needs, whether custom or standard.
Molex’s Mini50 Connection System use smaller terminals to fit more low-current electrical circuits. The USCAR-compliant compact MX64 Sealed Connectors include a version designed for seamless mating with a variety of LED modules. Field-proven MX150 Sealed Connector Systems offer a USCAR interface, superior operating temperatures and current ratings up to 22.0A, to list a few.
Beyond Connectors
Molex offers advanced MID (Molded Interconnect Device) technology with LDS (Laser Direct Structuring) expertise to deliver integrated fine-pitch 3D circuitry in a single molded device for complex designs with custom features and functionality. Using MID technology, a 3-dimensional thermoplastic carrier, on which conductive metal surfaces are integrated, can be fabricated to deliver a true mechatronic device. This technology enables designers to integrate highly complex electrical and mechanical features into compact applications that existing 2D technologies cannot accomplish.
The Molex Advantage
From our wide range of miniature and power connectors to our cutting-edge capabilities, Molex has the connectivity solution to optimize your automotive lighting design.