216-Position Backplane Header for Differential-Pair Routing
The Molex 762857207 is a 216-position header from the Impact 76285 series, configured as an 18-row by 12-column grid with a Guide Left keying feature. The press-fit termination eliminates solder — the compliant pin compresses into a plated through-hole, which suits automated backplane assembly and allows field rework without desoldering. Rated at 30V, this connector is built for signal-level differential pairs, not power delivery. The black housing is the standard color for this series — no color-based keying variant here.
This is the preferred termination for backplane connectors because it avoids thermal stress on the board during assembly and allows individual pin replacement if a contact is damaged. The through-hole mounting type requires the board to have the correct hole diameter and plating thickness for the press-fit interface — the board layout engineer must follow the Impact series footprint drawing to ensure the hole size matches the compliant pin geometry. With 216 positions in an 18-row by 12-column array, the board footprint is dense. The via field must be routed carefully to maintain signal integrity for the 72 differential pairs. The Guide Left keying orientation means the header has a guide pin on the left side when viewed from the mating face — this mates only with a receptacle that has the matching guide feature on the left, preventing misalignment during blind mating in a backplane chassis.
The mating half is a female connector with the same 18-row by 12-column grid and press-fit termination. The Guide Left keying ensures the header and receptacle are oriented correctly before the pins engage — critical in a backplane where the connector is not visible during mating. All 216 positions are loaded. The contact finish is gold per the spec.