Hirose FX16 Series Cable Assemblies: Custom Micro Coaxial Cables and High-Speed FFC Harnesses

Hirose FX16 Cable Assemblies | FX16-21P, FX16-31P, FX16M2, Micro Coaxial Cable and Shielded FFC Harness Solutions

PrecisionCoax specializes in manufacturing custom micro coaxial cable assemblies, ultra-fine coaxial wire harnesses, high-speed signal cables, and precision electronic interconnect solutions.

We provide custom cable assembly manufacturing services using Hirose FX16 Series connectors, including FX16-21P-0.5SD, FX16-31P-0.5SD, FX16-21P-0.5SDL, and FX16-31P-0.5SDL micro coaxial cable connector solutions. We also support engineering evaluations for shielded FFC cable assemblies using FX16F and FX16M2 Series connectors.

The FX16 Series features a 0.5 mm contact pitch and supports high-speed signal transmission. It is suitable for industrial cameras, LCD display equipment, industrial automation systems, gaming devices, and other high-density electronic applications.

PrecisionCoax can manufacture custom cable assemblies according to customer drawings, including cable length, wire specifications, pin mapping, shielding structures, grounding configurations, and opposite-end connector combinations.

Whether you need an FX16-21P micro coaxial cable assembly, an FX16-31P high-speed signal harness, or a custom FX16 FFC cable assembly, we can evaluate your project based on its specific technical requirements.

1. What Is the Hirose FX16 Series Connector?

The Hirose FX16 Series is a high-speed board-to-wire connector family featuring a 0.5 mm contact pitch.

The series is primarily designed for high-speed signal connections between PCBs and cables. It supports two main interconnection solutions: micro coaxial cables and shielded FFC (Flexible Flat Cable) assemblies.

With its compact connector design, the FX16 Series enables multiple signal connections in electronic devices with limited PCB installation space.

Key Features of the FX16 Series

• Fine 0.5 mm contact pitch
• 21-pin, 31-pin, 41-pin, and 51-pin configurations
• Micro coaxial cable termination options
• Shielded FFC cable connection options
• Right-angle and vertical connector configurations
• High-speed signal transmission capability up to 6 Gbps
• Compatibility with V-by-One HS interface applications
• High-reliability contact design
• Patented flip-lock structure for FFC cable retention
• PCB surface-mount technology (SMT)
• Designed for high-density, high-speed electronic equipment

Different FX16 models feature different cable termination methods and PCB mounting configurations. Always verify the complete connector part number when selecting components for a cable assembly project.

2. Hirose FX16 Series Connector Types and Part Numbers

The FX16 Series includes multiple cable plugs, PCB receptacles, and grounding accessories.

From a cable assembly manufacturing perspective, the series can be divided into the following main categories:

1. FX16 SD: Right-angle micro coaxial cable plugs.
2. FX16 SDL: Vertical micro coaxial cable plugs.
3. FX16F HC: 21-pin and 31-pin flip-lock FFC holders.
4. FX16M2 HC: 41-pin and 51-pin flip-lock FFC holders.
5. FX16 PCB Receptacles: PCB-mounted connector receptacles.
6. FX16 GND / GNDL: Grounding covers and shielding accessories for micro coaxial cable assemblies.

2.1 FX16-21P-0.5SD Micro Coaxial Cable Connector

Full Part Number: FX16-21P-0.5SD

The FX16-21P-0.5SD is a 21-position right-angle micro coaxial cable plug designed for custom micro coaxial cable assembly manufacturing.

Its main features include:

• 21 contact positions
• 0.5 mm contact pitch
• Right-angle cable connection structure
• Micro coaxial cable termination
• Support for related shielded FFC connection solutions
• Requires a compatible metal grounding cover

This connector is suitable for electronic equipment requiring compact cable routing and multi-channel high-speed signal transmission.

2.2 FX16-31P-0.5SD Micro Coaxial Cable Connector

Full Part Number: FX16-31P-0.5SD

The FX16-31P-0.5SD is a 31-position right-angle micro coaxial cable plug designed for electronic devices requiring a higher number of signal connections.

Compared with the 21-position version, this model provides additional contacts for applications requiring more signal channels.

Key features include:

• 31 contact positions
• 0.5 mm contact pitch
• Right-angle micro coaxial cable connection
• Supports 36 AWG, 38 AWG, and 40 AWG micro coaxial cables
• Compatible FX16-31P-GND grounding cover
• Custom cable length and pin mapping

This model is suitable for industrial cameras, display equipment, image-processing modules, and other high-density signal interconnection applications.

2.3 FX16-21P-0.5SDL Vertical Micro Coaxial Cable Connector

Full Part Number: FX16-21P-0.5SDL

The FX16-21P-0.5SDL is a 21-position vertical micro coaxial cable plug.

Unlike the right-angle SD configuration, the SDL version features a vertical mating orientation. This design accommodates different PCB layouts and cable exit directions.

Key features include:

• 21 contact positions
• 0.5 mm contact pitch
• Vertical mating configuration
• Micro coaxial cable termination
• Compatible FX16-21P-GNDL vertical grounding cover
• Suitable for applications requiring vertical mating and horizontal cable routing

This configuration is suitable for electronic equipment with limited PCB installation space or specific cable exit direction requirements.

2.4 FX16-31P-0.5SDL Vertical Micro Coaxial Cable Connector

Full Part Number: FX16-31P-0.5SDL

The FX16-31P-0.5SDL is a 31-position vertical micro coaxial cable plug.

With more contact positions than the 21-position vertical version, it supports higher-density signal interconnection requirements.

Key features include:

• 31 contact positions
• 0.5 mm contact pitch
• Vertical plug configuration
• Micro coaxial cable termination
• Compatible FX16-31P-GNDL grounding cover
• Custom cable length and cable structure options

3. FX16 Series FFC Cable Connectors

In addition to micro coaxial cable connectors, the FX16 Series includes dedicated connectors for shielded FFC flat cables.

These connectors use a Flip-Lock structure, which simplifies FFC cable installation and retention.

3.1 FX16F-21P-HC

A 21-position flip-lock FFC cable connector.

Key features include:

• 21 contact positions
• Flip-lock cable retention structure
• Supports specified shielded FFC cables
• Suitable for compact electronic equipment

3.2 FX16F-31P-HC

A 31-position flip-lock FFC cable connector.

Key features include:

• 31 contact positions
• 0.5 mm contact pitch
• Flip-lock retention structure
• Supports shielded FFC cables
• Suitable for multi-channel high-speed signal connections

3.3 FX16M2-41P-HC

A 41-position flip-lock FFC cable connector.

Key features include:

• 41 contact positions
• Supports specified fully shielded FFC cables
• Flip-lock cable retention structure
• Designed for high-density signal connections

3.4 FX16M2-51P-HC

A 51-position flip-lock FFC cable connector.

Key features include:

• 51 contact positions
• High-density flat cable connection
• Supports shielded FFC cables
• Suitable for multi-channel high-speed signal applications

Important: FX16F-21P-HC, FX16F-31P-HC, FX16M2-41P-HC, and FX16M2-51P-HC are FFC holder-type connectors. They are not designed to be used directly as solder-termination plugs for micro coaxial cables.

4. FX16 Series PCB Receptacle Models

The FX16 Series also provides PCB receptacles with different mounting orientations.

These PCB receptacles connect cable assemblies to the main circuit board of electronic equipment. They are board-mounted components rather than cable-side termination plugs.

4.1 Standard FX16 Series PCB Receptacles

Right-Angle PCB Receptacles:

• FX16-21S-0.5SH
• FX16-31S-0.5SH

Vertical PCB Receptacles:

• FX16-21S-0.5SV
• FX16-31S-0.5SV

4.2 FX16M2 Series PCB Receptacles

Right-Angle PCB Receptacles:

• FX16M2-41S-0.5SH
• FX16M2-51S-0.5SH

Vertical PCB Receptacles:

• FX16M2-41S-0.5SV
• FX16M2-51S-0.5SV

These receptacles should be selected according to the equipment's PCB layout, mating direction, and corresponding cable plug model.

5. FX16 Series Micro Coaxial Cable Grounding Accessories

FX16 micro coaxial cable assemblies also require compatible grounding covers, also known as ground plates or cover shells.

These accessories secure the cable shielding structure and work with the connector housing to establish the grounding connection.

5.1 Right-Angle Grounding Covers

5.2 Vertical Grounding Covers

Grounding covers are separate components. When purchasing connectors or preparing a cable assembly BOM, confirm whether the required grounding accessories are already included.

6. Hirose FX16 Series Complete Part Number Reference

The following table summarizes the main FX16 cable plugs, PCB receptacles, FFC connectors, and compatible grounding accessories.

The models above are organized according to the main configurations in the Hirose FX16 Series catalog. When ordering, verify the packaging suffix and exact ordering specification for each component.

7. FX16 Micro Coaxial Cable Specifications

FX16 micro coaxial cable plugs support fine-gauge coaxial wires and are designed for high-density signal transmission applications.

According to the Hirose catalog, compatible micro coaxial cable specifications include:

During manufacturing, the cable outside diameter, insulation material, outer conductor construction, and termination dimensions must be checked against the connector requirements.

Basic Micro Coaxial Cable Construction

A typical micro coaxial cable consists of the following layers:

1. Inner Conductor
2. Dielectric Insulation
3. Outer Conductor or Shielding Layer
4. Outer Jacket

Different wire gauges, insulation materials, and shielding structures affect cable flexibility, characteristic impedance, and signal transmission performance.

FX16 Cable Assembly Processing Considerations

The FX16 Series has a 0.5 mm contact pitch, making cable preparation accuracy an important factor in finished assembly quality.

Key manufacturing considerations include:

• Accurate micro coaxial cable stripping length
• Pre-tinning of center conductors
• Controlled solder volume to prevent solder from flowing into the contact area
• Proper positioning of outer conductors relative to the metal alignment bar
• Consistent spacing between individual coaxial cables
• Preventing conductor deformation during soldering
• Controlling soldering temperature and processing time
• Correct installation and positioning of the metal cover

Hirose recommends pulse-heat soldering for cable termination and requires precise positioning between the center conductor and connector contacts.

8. Hirose FX16 Series Technical Specifications

Note: These specifications describe the connector series and do not guarantee that every finished cable assembly will achieve the same high-speed transmission performance at any cable length or configuration. Actual performance must be evaluated based on cable construction, length, impedance, routing, and test results.

9. Custom FX16 High-Speed Cable Assembly Manufacturing

PrecisionCoax provides custom cable assembly manufacturing services for the Hirose FX16 Series.

We can evaluate cable structure, manufacturing processes, and inspection requirements according to customer drawings, reference samples, and technical specifications.

9.1 Custom Cable Length

We support custom micro coaxial cable assembly lengths based on the available installation space and equipment requirements.

Specifications can include:

• Overall cable length
• Individual conductor length
• Length tolerance
• Cable exit direction
• Cable bending and routing path

9.2 Custom Pin Mapping

We support custom contact assignments based on customer wiring diagrams.

Available configurations include:

• 1:1 Pin Mapping
• Custom signal mapping
• Ground (GND) allocation
• Shielding connections
• Multiple connector combinations

9.3 Custom Micro Coaxial Cable Selection

Depending on project requirements, we can evaluate different micro coaxial cable specifications, including:

• 36 AWG Micro Coaxial Cable
• 38 AWG Micro Coaxial Cable
• 40 AWG Micro Coaxial Cable
• Different characteristic impedance and insulation materials
• Different outside diameters and shielding structures

9.4 Shielding and Grounding

For high-speed signal applications, shielding and grounding structures must be determined according to the customer's electrical design.

We can evaluate outer conductor termination, grounding connections, and metal cover installation based on the supplied drawings.

9.5 Custom Opposite-End Connectors

FX16 micro coaxial cable assemblies can be designed with different opposite-end connectors according to the equipment requirements.

Possible configurations include:

• FX16 to I-PEX Micro Coaxial Connector
• FX16 to Hirose Connector
• FX16 to Molex Connector
• FX16 to JAE Connector
• FX16 to Custom Cable Termination

Manufacturing feasibility depends on the opposite-end connector termination structure, cable specifications, and signal requirements.

10. FX16 Cable Assembly Applications

Industrial Cameras and Machine Vision

With its high-speed signal transmission capabilities, the FX16 Series can be used for internal connections in industrial cameras, machine vision systems, and image acquisition equipment.

Typical applications include:

• Industrial Camera Cable
• Machine Vision Cable Assembly
• High-Speed Camera Harness
• Imaging Signal Cable
• Camera Module Micro Coaxial Cable

LCD Displays and Display Modules

FX16 connectors can be used for high-speed internal signal connections in compatible display equipment.

Typical applications include:

• LCD Display Cable
• LVDS Display Cable Assembly
• V-by-One HS Cable
• Display Module Wire Harness
• High-Speed Display Interconnect

Industrial Automation Equipment

In industrial controllers and automation equipment, FX16 connectors can be used in circuit designs requiring compact, multi-channel signal connections.

Typical applications include:

• CNC Control Systems
• PLC Control Equipment
• Industrial HMI
• Embedded Industrial Computers
• Automation Camera Systems

Gaming and Electronic Entertainment Devices

The high-speed signal transmission capabilities of the FX16 Series also make it suitable for evaluating internal connection designs in certain gaming devices and electronic entertainment equipment.

Multifunction Printers and Copiers

The FX16 Series can also be used in multifunction printers, copiers, and related electronic control modules.

11. FX16 Cable Assembly Quality Inspection

Micro coaxial cable assemblies feature dense contact spacing, extremely fine conductors, and demanding termination accuracy requirements.

PrecisionCoax can develop inspection procedures according to customer product specifications.

Visual Inspection

• Connector part number verification
• Connector orientation inspection
• Cable arrangement inspection
• Metal cover installation inspection
• Solder joint positioning inspection

Electrical Testing

• Continuity Test
• Short Circuit Test
• Pin Mapping Test
• Ground Continuity Test
• Shield Continuity Test
• Insulation Test, when specified and appropriate

High-Speed Signal Testing

For high-speed LVDS or V-by-One HS applications, additional testing can be evaluated according to customer requirements, including:

• Characteristic Impedance
• Differential Impedance
• Insertion Loss
• Return Loss
• Signal Skew
• Eye Diagram

The final test requirements should be determined based on the customer's interface specifications and the actual application of the finished cable assembly.

12. How to Order Custom Hirose FX16 Cable Assemblies

If you need a custom FX16 micro coaxial cable assembly, please provide as many of the following details as possible:

1. Complete Hirose FX16 connector part number.
2. Opposite-end connector part number.
3. Overall cable length.
4. Micro coaxial cable specifications.
5. Pin mapping or wiring diagram.
6. Shielding and grounding requirements.
7. Required order quantity.
8. Assembly drawings or reference samples, if available.

If you currently have only the connector part number and approximate cable length, you can still send us the available information for an initial engineering evaluation.

PrecisionCoax supports prototype development, custom manufacturing, and volume production.

13. Frequently Asked Questions About FX16 Series Cable Assemblies

Q1: What type of connector is the Hirose FX16 Series?

The Hirose FX16 Series is a high-speed board-to-wire connector family with a 0.5 mm contact pitch. It supports micro coaxial cable and shielded FFC cable applications.

Q2: How many pin configurations are available in the FX16 Series?

The FX16 Series includes 21-pin, 31-pin, 41-pin, and 51-pin configurations. Different contact counts are available in different plug and receptacle configurations.

Q3: What is the difference between FX16-21P-0.5SD and FX16-31P-0.5SD?

The main difference is the number of contact positions.

FX16-21P-0.5SD has 21 contacts, while FX16-31P-0.5SD has 31 contacts. Both are right-angle micro coaxial cable plugs.

Q4: What is the difference between FX16-SD and FX16-SDL?

SD refers to the right-angle micro coaxial cable plug, while SDL refers to the vertical micro coaxial cable plug.

Their cable exit directions and mating orientations are different. Select the appropriate configuration according to the available installation space inside your equipment.

Q5: What AWG micro coaxial cables are compatible with FX16 connectors?

According to the Hirose catalog, compatible wire gauges include 36 AWG, 38 AWG, and 40 AWG.

The actual cable outside diameter and termination structure must meet the connector manufacturer's requirements.

Q6: Can FX16-41P and FX16-51P connectors use micro coaxial cables?

The exact connector model must be checked. FX16M2-41P-HC and FX16M2-51P-HC are FFC holder-type connectors, not standard SD/SDL micro coaxial cable termination plugs.

Q7: Does the FX16 Series support V-by-One HS?

The FX16 Series supports V-by-One HS-related applications. The catalog specifies high-speed transmission capability of up to 6 Gbps. However, actual finished cable assembly performance must be evaluated through the specific design and testing requirements.

Q8: Can FX16 micro coaxial cable assemblies be manufactured in custom lengths?

Yes. PrecisionCoax can evaluate custom cable lengths, pin mapping, shielding structures, and opposite-end connector configurations according to customer drawings and application requirements.

Q9: Do FX16 connectors require additional grounding covers?

Yes. FX16 SD and SDL micro coaxial cable plugs require their corresponding grounding covers. The compatible accessories are the GND and GNDL versions.

Q10: Can you manufacture FX16-21P-0.5SD and FX16-31P-0.5SD cable assemblies?

Yes. We can evaluate and manufacture custom projects subject to manufacturing feasibility and component availability. Please provide the complete connector part number, cable length, wire gauge, wiring diagram, and required quantity.

14. Contact PrecisionCoax for an FX16 Cable Assembly Quotation