Smiths Interconnect expands rugged modular connectors with new contact technologies
The L modular connector series from Smiths Interconnect now include two new module types.
The Smiths Interconnect’s L series of modular connectors is based on the principle of building blocks for ease of assembly. The system is composed of two elements: modules and frames. Modules of various styles and different contact types are available to meet application requirements, combining signal, power, and coaxial contact technologies into custom arrangements within a single connector frame.
The two new contact technologies now include fibre optic and pneumatic modular connectors. The hybrid module combines two fibre optic termini with the option of a Coaxtac coaxial contacts or a 25A Hypertac power contact. The pneumatic module (pictured) adds the function of the air contacts to offer the possibility of a mechanical performance within a modular configuration.
The L series is suitable for rugged rack and panel applications. The hybrid module can support additional applications that require high speed data transmission in space, aerospace, defence and industrial market segments; the pneumatic module is designed for mechanical power within robots, testing and tooling machines.
Both new modules can be used in the standard versions of the L series as well as models which comply to EN45545 requirements for fire safety.
The hybrid versions offer fibre optic interconnects for 1.3mm 62.5/125 micron multi-mode fibre optic cables with either coaxial contacts for RG316, RG316DB, RG405 or T-Flex 405 cable or power contacts for 12 to 14AWG wire.
The connectors allow designers to combine fibre optic with copper cables to take advantage of the performance benefits of fibre, including reduced size and weight, immunity to EMI/RFI, no cross talk or loss of signal strength over long distances, and the difficulty of tapping fibre optic cables which increases system security, advises Smiths.
They can also be used in conjunction with a variety of L series modules, combining signal, power, and/or RF contacts in an assortment of standard rack and panel or cable to panel frames.
The pneumatic module’s male contact features an NBR rubber O-ring that seals the contact into the female mating element. It provides the correct mechanical power required by specific applications, such as pneumatic valves where the force of the air drives, solenoid valves or low-pressure pistons. It is also suitable for factory machinery, robots, testing systems, tooling and agricultural machinery.
