A hermaphroditic "mates-to-self" design used in the MezzoStak 0.5mm-pitch mezzanine connector by FCI, uses the same part number for both mated sides. This is claimed to halve engineering and supply chain maintenance. The mezzanine connector uses guidance features to assist users with handling. Polarisation prevents errors in PCB placement and mating. According to the company, the tough physical construction surpasses similar consumer-grade products making it suitable for industrial, commercial and high-rel applications. Dual-point terminals assure redundant electrical contact. A short mating point and long wiping action reduces mechanical risk while a high un-mating force increases connection security. The connector operates in extreme temperature range of -40 to 125°C. Its high durability design insures performance up to 50 mating cycles. It can be used as a low-cost alternative to high-speed, low pin count connectors, for high-speed applications, including PCIeG2. The connector, which is available in a standard version provides solderable hold-downs for supplemental PCB support. A short version eliminates hold-downs to conserve PCB space. The connector has a PCB stack height range of four to 7mm and is available in 20 to 70 positions depending on configuration.
