How to Determine Suitable Interconnect Solutions for Harsh Environment Applications
When selecting connectors for harsh environment applications, the first step is to establish a detailed checklist of the conditions in which the connectors will be used and the specific requirements of the application at hand. These include a review of the operating environments, equipment dimensions, ergonomics, factors for installation and maintenance, robustness and sealing requirements, weight goals, and the type of signals the system will handle. Defining these points makes it possible to choose connectors that are designed to meet the technical requirements of the application and deliver the performance and reliability needed in the field. Sometimes an existing connector may be adapted to meet specific requirements. In other situations, unique conditions or requirements will mean an application-specific design is required, in which case a supplier can help create a custom connector.
In complex equipment design, focusing on the total configuration and centralizing the mechanical and electronic functions will save on the total cost. For military equipment, relying on MIL-spec connectors answers many needs, but considering every aspect of a system or design also makes it apparent when a unique solution is the best choice. A manufacturer that works as your partner will bringing different experiences together with you.
An experienced connector supplier knows that “connecting a connector” is not the mission of soldiers. The ability to support soldiers with product designs that are quick and easy to connect under the challenging conditions and circumstances is what defines this market.
Circular connectors and electronic functions
Circular connectors are very popular for use in harsh environment applications. The size, compact dimension, multitude of locking and keying options, scalability, and ease of use make these connectors a top choice. High-performance circular connectors support a range of protocols and enable operators to transfer large amounts of data in connected systems. Circular connectors are available in a range of configurations, including military standard versions, that address the specific needs of land, aeronautics, and naval designs.
With the wide range of available circular connector designs, engineering teams must be able to identify the ideal versions of these connectors to meet the specific needs of the equipment under design. The design and assembly of the complete system must be considered, focusing such factors as the probable need to integrate electronic modules in the connector shell to carry wireless functions; the mating number count; integration with memory, converter, and data processors; as well as encryption, filtering, and authentication processes. In this process, the technical field teams of the manufacturer you work with, will both save you time and money while they give you support to add value to the designs through years of experience, different suggestions and capabilities.
EMC reinforcements
Options are available to reinforce the EMC specifications of connectors. For example, standard receptacles can be equipped with a ground ring to achieve a higher EMC level. This addition improves continuity between the connector shell and inserts and increases protection to 360°. The commonly specified fluorosilicone O-ring can also be upgraded to a conductive version to establish better conductivity between the connector and the panel. One or several ground pins inserted in the connector shell can be set to easily link the chassis ground directly to the PCB ground.
Conditions of Use
The choice of a connector range for harsh environments must meet the constraints and requirements of the field. This typically includes resistance to humidity, salt mist or fog, corrosion, temperature variations, shock, vibration, and dust. They must also be able to connect and disconnect reliably with ergonomic push-pull, threaded, and bayonet locking systems that enable easy maintenance in field conditions.
Wide ranges of connectors
To meet the needs of a diverse range of applications used in harsh environments, it is essential to work with a supplier that offers connectors that can be configured in many sizes and numbers of contacts, among other criteria. Look for a supplier that offers small connectors for head-end equipment, standard connectors for intercom or radio systems, larger connectors with high contact density for rugged PCs, and versatile USB Type-Cs for transmission of high-speed data, video, pictures, or energy.
The world of circular connectors for harsh environments continues to serve the challenges presented by the military markets. These diverse connectors are used in soldier infotainment devices. They support high-volume, high-speed data transmission needed by vetronics systems. They control navigation, communications, and observation systems. They are critical to power networks, military vehicle motorization, and weapon systems, as well as the networking of these systems.
By offering innovative, rugged, and reliable connectivity solutions that meet the requirements of harsh environments, connector suppliers support military missions with products that will perform in every operation, under every condition
