October, 2022
Affect Connectors Continued from previous page
high resolution displays used in portable mil- itary applications, space satellites, and ruggedized robotic equipment. Nowadays, miniature electronic modules
are moved from the big-box, out through cabling to probes, sensors, and detectors used to deliver a variety of information to the main unit, including video, thermal measure- ments, shock, and guidance. Circuits in mission-critical applications
are often placed in harm’s way and must retain the highest reliability and maintain signal integrity even in stressful environ- ments, including high shock and constant vibration of the electronics.
A number of critical elements
have changed in both the applica- tion and the design of those inter- connection systems that serve the new electronics. Voltages are somewhat standardized and are significantly lower than in the past. Current levels are dropping to the milliamp levels, compared to older electronic systems. Space for signal routing has become lim- ited. Weight of the connector and cable must be reduced to increase service life of the module. Ruggedness is increasingly signif- icant, especially in airborne and robotized instruments. Rapid con- nect and interconnection is often critical in field applications. Industry trends have shown
that most cable and connector manufacturers are rapidly tool- ing smaller interconnect systems to meet the mechanical and physical configurations that can serve the new ruggedized minia- ture electronics of today. It is important to note that electronic design groups are also pushing new limits in providing faster and more efficient microchips. Expanded C-MOS technologies have combined most electronic subsystems within one chip design. These new chips offer much higher speed signals, larg- er memory sections and operate on lower voltages and lower cur- rent, which greatly expands bat- tery and field life of the instru- ments they are supporting.
Analog vs. Digital Another interesting trend is
that analog signal management is giving way to digital signal processing. Analog signals are not going away and remain very useful in certain level-sense con- trol and modulation circuits, but they often require larger wire diameters and higher voltages. Digital processing seems to be
eclipsing many areas of electronic circuit design and are used from commercial communication appli- cations, (like cellular phones), to many high-level military and space technology applications. The advantage of digital signal man- agement is that it can be routed easily and can be sped up dramat-
Latching Micro-D connection system.
www.us-tech.com Demand for Small Devices: How Industry Trends
ically with lower cost and complexity in the electronics. Many cables use a differential pair of twisted wires, for example, Apple’s FireWire,
or other equivalent. Highly reliable signal speeds are being achieved and maintain the high signal integrity as they perform in the Gigahertz range on extremely small diameter wire. This trend allows the placement of new, unique, electronic products in portable and rugged applications. An important note about using digital sig-
nal processing within cabling is that it is more secure from listening devices, since the cables can be shielded and protected way beyond what can be designed for signal transmission through the airwaves, especially when securi- ty and confidential information is involved.
Continued on page 57
Page 55
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