selecting a signal connector

[kuon]

I know this has been asked a million times, I read many things, but I still would like your advice on a connector selection.

I want a connector to connect a load cell to a PCB. I need

- 5 circuit (4 + cable shield actually)
- good signal integrity as I am measuring uV
- easy to mate/unmate without tools
- full smt
- audible click on assembly
- right angled
- 1.5-2.5mm pitch
- ambient temperature and no vibration, so no requirements on this side

So far I have found:

- molex nano fit
- molex micro lock
- molex micro one
- molex clik
- hirose DF3EA

But I don't know which to choose.

[tooki]

A key spec in small connectors is how many insertion cycles it needs to support. Some connectors can handle dozens or hundreds of cycles, others are pretty much designed to be plugged once and that’s it.

[kuon]

A dozen of cycle is enough to maintenance. But not "once". I tried some JST connectors, but they are nearly impossible to unplug properly.

All the connector I selected have a durability of 30 cycles, except nanot fit which has a 50 cycle option.

[tooki]

A dozen of cycle is enough to maintenance. But not "once". I tried some JST connectors, but they are nearly impossible to unplug properly.

All the connector I selected have a durability of 30 cycles, except nanot fit which has a 50 cycle option.

JST has dozens of different small signal connectors. They vary dramatically in ease of insertion/removal. I’m a big fan of JST XH, as it uses the “folded beam” contact style that is very robust, but is cheap and reasonably compact. But there are also ones with latches (which provide positive retention, but comparatively easy removal).

That hirose series looks nice, as a complete wire to board, wire to wire, and board to board system.