Benefits of Using Gold-Finger Connections in PI Heaters | Reliable Connector Design

Benefits of Using Gold-Finger Connections in PI Heaters

Datang Dingsheng Technology • Updated Dec 08, 2025 • 6–9 min read

Gold-finger contacts on a PI heating film — Example: gold-finger pads on a polyimide (PI) heating film.

Introduction — Why Connector Choice Matters

In PI (polyimide) heating films, the electrical interface between the heater and control unit is critical. A poor connection can cause high contact resistance, heat buildup, or field failures. Gold-finger connectors provide low resistance, corrosion resistance, and high durability.

What Is a Gold-Finger Connection?

A gold-finger is a plated contact pad located at the edge of a PI heater or flexible circuit. Gold plating ensures stable, low-resistance electrical contact with connectors, pogo pins, or edge sockets.

Key Benefits of Gold-Finger Connections

1. Low Contact Resistance

Gold provides excellent conductivity and prevents the increase of resistance due to oxidation.

2. Corrosion & Oxidation Resistance

Gold does not oxidize, making it ideal for humid, outdoor, or automotive environments.

3. High Durability

Suitable for thousands of mating cycles without performance loss.

4. Compatible with Automated Assembly

Supports SMT, automated testing and high-volume production.

5. High Current Handling

With proper design, gold fingers can support high-power heating applications.

Design Considerations

Pad Geometry

≥1.0 mm width for power pads
≥2.5–3.0 mm length for secure contact
Follow connector pitch rules

Plating Choices

ENIG — economical, reliable, widely used
Hard Gold — best for high mating cycles
Gold Flash — low cost, limited durability

Testing & Quality Control

Contact resistance test
Mating cycle test
Humidity / salt spray test
Thermal cycling
Peel / adhesion test

Applications

EV Battery Heaters
Drone / Camera Lens Heaters
Telecom & Base Station Heaters
Medical device heating modules
Industrial sensor heating

Conclusion

Gold-finger connectors provide superior electrical performance, corrosion resistance, and production efficiency for PI heating films. They are a recommended solution for high-reliability, modular, or high-power heating applications.