The part number **M3SWVS-4W6Y-R** identifies a specific **Ribbon Cable Assembly** manufactured by **3M**. This component is primarily used for internal board-to-board or peripheral connections within electronic systems. --- ## 1. Technical Specifications The part number is an alphanumeric code that describes the construction of the cable. Below are the core technical details: | Feature | Specification | | :--- | :--- | | **Manufacturer** | 3M | | **Connector Type** | Socket to Card Edge | | **Number of Positions** | 4 | | **Length** | 6.00' (1.83m) | | **Pitch (Connector)** | 0.100" (2.54mm) | | **Pitch (Cable)** | 0.050" (1.27mm) | | **Shielding** | Unshielded | | **Color** | Multiple (Ribbon) / Gray | --- ## 2. Component Breakdown The assembly consists of three primary electronic elements: ### A. The Connectors * **Socket Connector:** A standard rectangular female socket designed to plug into a 0.100" pitch header. * **Card Edge Connector:** Designed to slide onto the gold-finger traces of a printed circuit board (PCB). * **Strain Relief:** These assemblies typically include a plastic clip that prevents the cable from being pulled out of the IDC (Insulation Displacement Connector) contacts. ### B. The Ribbon Cable * The cable uses **28 AWG stranded wire**, which provides flexibility. * The insulation is usually PVC. * The 0.050" spacing of the wires allows for mass termination into the 0.100" dual-row connectors. ### C. Polarization and Mounting * The socket side usually features a **center bump (polarization key)** to ensure it cannot be plugged in backward. * The card edge side provides a secure friction fit to the edge of a PCB. --- ## 3. Common Applications These assemblies are "legacy-style" but remain critical in various industrial and computing environments: 1. **Industrial Controls:** Connecting a main logic board to a user interface panel. 2. **Internal Computing:** Older drive interfaces or internal proprietary data buses. 3. **Prototyping:** Used with breadboards or development kits that utilize 2.54mm headers. 4. **Test Equipment:** Routing signals from an internal PCB to an external diagnostic port. ---