What is RAST?

What is RAST?   
l       Standard for the mating interface for a family of interconnection products.
2       Rast = “Raster Anschluss Steck Technik” (roughly translated as Pitch Connection Plug Technology).
   Rast = “Raster Anschluss Steck Technik”
3       The term is usually followed by a numerical value (e. g. RAST 2.5, RAST 5), which represents the contact centerline spacing, in millimeters, for the interconnection. ？
RAST design typically employ insulation-displacement connections (IDC) instead of traditional crimp-style quick disconnects.  
 The RAST standard specifies a number of connection characteristics
1       Geometric dimensions of the connector housing
2      Component/tab designation (depending on the component)  
3      Color-coding of the housings
4      Polarization and keying features to prevent misassembly
5       Optional internal or external latching mechanisms to increase the retention of the interconnection ？ 



Keying of RAST Connectors simplifies manufacturing 
In many cases, the keying/polarization features can be customized on the automatic termination equipment, thus, reducing the number of different parts that must be kept in inventory.
positioning     keying     locking
without 0 if neighbouring keyings  
Direct connectors are keyed by keying ribs and closed sides (positioning).The printed circuit board has appurtenant reliefs.  
Indirect connectors are keyed by omitting keying noses. The appurtenant keying windows of the tab header are closed(same as guide frame with direct connector).
 In Europe RAST with IDC is used for more than 25 years  
Reductions of labor content  Rationalization
l      Minimization of assembly errors
2      The latching system improves housing retention and system reliability.
3      The polarization and keying features reduce plugging errors.
4       Simplification of the manufacture of wiring harnesses 
5      Less parts in the harness by using a multiple-position connector
6      It facilitates parallel or crossover designs,
therefore, simplifying harness design. Less Assembly Errors Simplification
7      Contacts are less subject to shipping and handling damage by virtue of being preloaded in the housing. Better Quality