Flat Flex Cables (FFC) and Flexible Printed Circuits (FPC) are types of electrical connectors that facilitate the connection and transmission of signals and power within electronic devices. These cables are uniquely designed to be extremely flexible, which is achieved through the use of thin, flat conductive wires encapsulated in a flexible plastic film. The main function of FFCs and FPCs is to provide a reliable and flexible electrical connection between different parts of an electronic assembly, often in compact and dynamic environments.
The primary uses of Flat Flex Cables and Flexible Printed Circuits include applications in consumer electronics, automotive, and medical devices. They are particularly valued for their ability to reduce assembly time and overall device thickness, which is crucial in modern, compact electronic designs. Characteristics such as high flexibility, reduced weight, and excellent signal integrity make FFCs and FPCs ideal for sophisticated electronic products like smartphones, laptops, and intricate medical imaging devices. Notable manufacturers of these components include Sumitomo Electric, Johnson Electric, and Molex.