As early as the 1980s, RAST connectors became the international terminal block standard for the home appliance industry. RAST itself is an industry standard, abbreviated in German from “Raster-Anschluss-Steck Technik” and is roughly translated as “spacing connector socket technology." These four letters are usually followed by a value representing the spacing. For example, RAST 2.5 refers to a 2.5mm pitch spacing interface.

RAST connectors have various unique design features. First, they can be quickly and easily mated to the PCB, simplifying wire harness routing in tight spaces at the same time as preventing accidental disengagement due to a reliable locking mechanism. These connectors’ IDC piercing structure design further realizes rapid connection by simplifying the production process. In addition, the use of a single multi-position connector can reduce the number of assembly components, saving the overall circuit wiring space and reducing production costs. The standardized design is also in line with future automated production trends, which can further reduce future labor costs.

Image: The Design Features of RAST Connectors

Based on the above structural characteristics, the RAST connector provides an absolute advantage. It is designed with a snap-locking mechanism, which enables the connector to have a locking and anti-separation effect once it is connected. At the same time, in view of the low dielectric constant of the IDC wiring method, this design feature increases the electrical signal transmission rate. In order to ensure precise positioning during assembly and prevent installation errors, the design of the RAST connector also adopts a standard keying fool-proof mechanism, and provides a variety of appearance and color options for quick and accurate identification in complex systems.

RAST connectors are traditionally used in home appliances, but have recently been widely used in LED automotive lighting. Its lean production, assembly process, and reliable connection design meet the energy-saving and miniaturization needs of new energy vehicles. However, due to the impact of the epidemic, the automotive electronics market is constantly running out of stock, and the related products used in the automotive field are also in short supply. As a connector solution provider with years of automotive connector R&D and production qualifications, Greenconn leverages its vertically integrated supply chain advantages to fully cooperate with customers to cope with these global supply shortages.

Among the many RAST connector solutions, the latest RAST 2.5 connectors, based on independent research and development to fully meet existing functional requirements, further demonstrate the technical advantages of the RAST standard, and achieve more precise insulation piercing, locking, and fool-proofing abilities, as well as offering layouts with keying options. In addition, these products of high quality are proved to be able to pass the glow wire test. Greenconn also provides customized services to meet the needs of applications in fields such as home appliances, automobiles, computers, office equipment, and industrial equipment.