Every year technology is propelled forward which helps create smaller and thinner gadgets. Phones, televisions, and computers, are all much more complex than their historical counterparts, all while being more compact. On top of smaller chips sizes, creating smaller tech required smaller wires and cables as well. In fact, some cables today are as thin as paper which are utilized to great effect in small devices like mobile phones, computer monitors, and super thin television screens which need to fit several systems in an extremely small or thin exterior. Here is a breakdown of some of the wire and cables types that are found in most modern day technological devices.
Flat Flexible Cables (FFC)
Flat flexible cables are extremely thin, flat cables found in high-density electronics. Devices such as modern televisions, smartphones, and tablets all utilize FFCs in order to stay thin and compact, as well as keep them lightweight. They are highly flexible, easy to fold, and provide a strong and reliable connection between device components. Custom FFC cable is an increasingly popular and necessary type of cable in a world where technology is getting smaller and more compact.
Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC)
Flexible printed circuits are similar to flat flexible cables in that they are extremely thin and are found in devices that require tightly assembled electronic packages, such as cameras. The greatest advantage of flexible printed circuits is that they allow the replacement of rigid boards or connectors that take up way more space and cannot be used in foldable technology, such as foldable cell phones. Another benefit of the thin design is being able to stack multiple FPCs on top of each other.
Mirco-Coaxial Cables
Cables with a multi-layered structure with a center conductor covered with an insulator layer along with an outer conductor and jacket are called coaxial cables. The coaxial cable outer conductor plays the role of electromagnetic shield so the electrical signal transmitted through the center conductor is less susceptible to electromagnetic waves (electromagnetic noise) from the outside. Micro-coaxial cable is widely used for signal transmission between module boards inside devices such as PCs, tablets and smartphones, as well as precision instruments used for medical, industrial, automotive, aviation, etc.
LVDS Cables
Low-Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS) is a technology addressing the needs of today’s high performance data transmission applications. LVDS uses high-speed analog circuit techniques to provide multi gigabit data transfers on copper interconnects and is a generic interface standard for high-speed data transmission. Any device that is used for communication, including phones and computers, will likely use LVDS cables in their design.
DF9 Cables
A DF9 cable is soldered and molded to laminated flat flexible cable and is typically used for board-to-flat panel display connections. DF9 cables are narrow, save space, and create a low profile with devices. They provide a reliable connection and are easy to fold and highly flexible. DF9 cables are frequently found in video displays, monitors, and HD television displays.
The Future of Cables
Technology will continue to become more powerful as it gets smaller. The future of cables and wires will go hand in hand with other advancements in technology. For the moment, these cables and wires are the top of the line designs you will find in most technology currently available to consumers.