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Hardware

FFC

ActivePublished: 28 October 2026Updated: 28 October 2026Published
Key innovation
Replaces round wire harnesses with a thin, flat ribbon of parallel flat conductors, enabling compact, lightweight and flexible connections in densely packed electronics.
Category
Hardware
Abstraction level
Standard
Operation level
SystemRobot control
Use cases
MIPI CSI camera modulesLuxonis OAK-FFC carrier boardsLaptops and cell phonesBoard-to-board links in compact electronicsDisplays and touch panels

How it works

A set of parallel flat conductors (typically copper) at a fixed, standardized pitch is laminated between two insulating films, forming a thin, bendable ribbon. At both ends the film is stripped to expose contacts that slide into FFC/ZIF (zero insertion force) connectors on the boards. The ribbon carries signals and power between modules while staying flexible and minimally thick.

Problem solved

Round wire harnesses are bulky, stiff and hard to route inside thin, tightly packed enclosures. FFC reduces connection thickness and weight and allows repeated flexing and routing through narrow gaps.

Components

Flat conductorsSignal and power conduction

Parallel flat conductors (typically copper) at a standardized pitch carrying signals and power.

Insulating filmInsulation and mechanical carrier

Two film layers (commonly polyester/PET) laminating the conductors into a thin, flexible ribbon.

Exposed contactsTermination / connector interface

Film-stripped ends that slide into FFC/ZIF connectors on boards.