Simplifying design with easy-to-configure modular connectors featuring Hyperboloid contact technology

Smiths Interconnect’s new optimized, versatile, and high-density modular connector series is rugged, easy to configure, employs a do-it-yourself system. The connector series is based on the principle of building blocks which consists mainly of two elements: modules and frames. It's a flexible, which allows to mix and match modules for signal, power, coaxial, pneumatic and high-speed data contact technologies into different configurations within a single connector frame including a vast selection of hoods, required for different applications.

The series offers a broad range of mounting options, for example, floating, blind mating for rack and panel and secure panel mount with or without hoods. The advanced blind mating for rack and panel applications is possible thanks to the guides that provide alignment for contacts and mounting to a device. Whilst the float mount hardware allows connectors to mate if the mating parts of a system are not perfectly aligned.

Key feature of the series is the high reliability due to hyperboloid contacts which qualifies the product to operate for high vibration applications e.g. missile launchers, or test & measurement applications that require up to 100,000 mating cycles to allow high mean time between failure reducing downtime in operations.

The series was recently enhanced with the introduction of the new Cat5e and Cat6A ethernet data in accordance with IEEE 802.3 transmission modules. These new modules combine the proven technical characteristics of the hyperboloid contact with the use of high-quality and compliant insulator material - i.e. the polycarbonate family - to offer industry compliance and high performance. Customers can now easily configure modular connectivity solutions for their designs using to the new online configurator for the fully integrated modular L series. Featuring an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, the advanced configuration system allows users to select and customize connectors to meet exact specifications—using standard components for faster turnaround and reduced lead times.

Key takeaways:

• Modular design: The connector series uses a building-block principle with two main elements—modules and frames—allowing flexible configurations for signal, power, coaxial, pneumatic, and high-speed data technologies.
• Versatility and customization: customers can mix and match multiple modules within a single frame. 
• High reliability: Hyperboloid contacts provide durability for high-vibration environments and support up to 100,000 mating cycles, reducing downtime and increasing mean time between failures.
• Enhanced data capability: New Cat5e and Cat6A Ethernet modules comply with IEEE 802.3 standards, and combine hyperboloid contact technology with high-quality polycarbonate insulators for industry compliance and performance.
• New online configurator: An intuitive drag-and-drop tool enables customers to design and customize connectors using standard components for faster turnaround and reduced lead times.