Connectors secure bus-based applications: News from ODU UK

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Two connector systems from ODU can now be supplied to provide security in demanding bus-based industrial applications. An increasing number of industrial automation designers are using high-speed Ethernet or other bus-based protocols for their control network designs, but the electrical connectors can be a problem area. Existing PC-style RJ45 I/O connectors, FireWire or USB connectors are not suited to use in demanding industrial situations because their lack of environmental protection, insufficient mechanical ruggedness and complicated or nonexisting locking systems represent major hurdles for device manufacturers.

Two product ranges from ODU, the Mac and Mini-Snap, can meet industrial requirements, and independent test laboratories have verified the products' use for bus-based networks.

Measurement of connector parameters such as signal attenuation, impedance, interference and crosstalk at 400Mbyte/s has confirmed that the connector performance exceeds the requirements of FireWire standard IEEE1394-1995.

Depending on the application, the ODU Mac can be equipped with a quick-lock spindle or a latching system based on locking levers.

In either case, the locking system is very reliable, and connector mating or demating is done quickly and easily.

The modular concept of the connector, with many different modules and contact types, makes it very easy to design connectors for a wide range of industrial uses.

High-density modules with a large contact count are suited for bus systems with low data transfer rate requirements.

A special EMI-shielded bus module is available for use in faster, more modern bus system based on the FireWire or USB 2.0 protocol.

The Mac can have electrical contacts for various voltage or power levels, pneumatic couplers, or fibre-optic contacts or coaxial side-by-side in the same connector housing.

The company's Mini-Snap cylindrical push-pull connectors offer another solution for critical applications in industrial bus systems.

The metal housing of the Mini-Snap provides EMI shielding and its push-pull locking system makes mating and demating easy and quick, with accidental demating virtually impossible.

Many insert arrangements, contact styles, and connector sizes are available, together with protection to IP68.

Several different designs of panel-mounted receptacles allow crimp or solder termination to wires or even direct soldering to PCBs.

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