Gold-Plated RF Micro-Connector (U.FL/IPEX Type)
Electronic Component / Industrial Scrap · Hard Gold (Yellow) industrial alloy with cobalt or nickel for durability
Purity: Gold-Plated (typically 0.1 to 1.0 microns over brass/phosphor bronze base)
Type
Electronic Component / Industrial Scrap
Purity
Gold-Plated (typically 0.1 to 1.0 microns over brass/phosphor bronze base)
Gold Type
Hard Gold (Yellow) industrial alloy with cobalt or nickel for durability
Weight
0.015 to 0.03 grams (Total Weight including non-gold base metal)
Description
An ultra-miniature radio frequency (RF) connector commonly used in mobile phones, laptops, and Wi-Fi modules. While visually striking due to its golden hue, it is a precision-engineered industrial component designed for electrical conductivity rather than ornamental value.
Key Features
Concentric circular contact design, integrated crimp tail, and high-conductivity gold plating for signal integrity.
Color & Finish
Vivid deep yellow with an industrial matte-to-semi-gloss finish
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible; industrial components rarely carry jewelry-style hallmarks
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 3mm x 2mm; micro-miniature scale
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features a black polymer dielectric insulator at the center
Clasp & Closure
Snap-on friction fit (Male connector terminal)
Chain & Links
Solder-tail termination for PCB mounting or cable crimping
Craftsmanship Details
Precision stamped from thin-gauge metal sheet and electroplated using industrial high-speed plating processes.
Authentication Indicators
Visual 'flash' plating color; absence of hallmarks; industrial geometry consistent with standard U.FL connectors; weight too low for solid gold.
Origin & Maker
Likely East Asian manufacturing (Hirose, I-PEX, or generic electronics manufacturers)
Era & Period
Contemporary High-Tech (2010s-Present)
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured within the last 5-10 years
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'E-Waste' era of gold usage, where gold is hidden within technology rather than displayed as wealth.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor; appears removed from its original assembly, signs of mechanical distortion and potential oxidation on secondary surfaces.
Value Estimate
Negligible individual value; melt value is effectively zero for a single piece. Bulk industrial scrap value is approximately $50-$100 per pound for high-grade pins.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid contact with household chemicals; if collecting for refining, store in a dry environment to prevent corrosion of the exposed base metal.
Similar Items
Gold-plated pins, sim card connectors, and CPU pins which all utilize high-quality surface plating over base metals.
Interesting Facts
Gold is used in these connectors because it never tarnishes, ensuring a low-resistance electrical path for high-frequency data signals over the life of the device.