Interconnection
Connectors with integrated EEPROMS
Rudolf Weidenspointner, product manager for cable assemblies at ODU, explains why these integrated smart solutions are safe, reliable and intelligent
C
onnector systems with integrated microchips such as EEPROMs (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory) offer easy pairing
of devices and connectors, real-time connection status, mating cycle count and electronic device identification. Based on previous custom specific projects this features an off-the-shelf solution that allows system designers an easy method of serialization, valuable space savings as well as time and cost savings with the physical labelling of connectors or cable assemblies.
Electronic identification realised by microchips is a well-known process that has been around for years. The integration of the EEPROM technology inside the connector, which only requires one additional wire, provides many advantages for both OEM’s and end-users.
The over-moulded sealed cable assembly connects an EEPROM underneath the over-mould or potting to the contacts of ruggedized standard or custom specific connectors. Connected EEPROM devices provide a highly secured data transfer and can be used for a wide range of applications that require electronic security checks to establish a connection, including accessory or PCB identification, sensor calibration and data storage. This integrated solution also allows easy security code storage and can facilitate the customisation of application programs such as transmitter codes and appliance settings.
Medical market
International medical regulatory schemes impact devices all the way down to the component level. Today, medical device designers are selecting materials and
42 December/January 2023
products, prevention of misconfigurations, operation within specific device limits but also a fully automated documentation.
Military and security market Military equipment and devices require a fast and secure information flow with no malfunctions or interruptions in communication. So, the identification of connected equipment that requires no colour or mechanical coding, that allows connectors to be plugged into any receptacle of the equipment, while the system electronically configures itself in the correct way, could provide the ultimate solution. Prevention of misconfigurations becomes simple, when controlled by any component connected from a complex system to a single cable. Connectors with integrated chips can help identify any component that is connected, configure the system, identify non-authorised equipment and manage service as well as the lifetime of the components.
components with much more foresight to ensure product performance, safety and regulatory compliance. Risk management and documentation have become mandatory. The emphasis on increased product safety is an ever-increasing effort not only in product design, component selection, testing, and quality inspection but also during the whole product life cycle. Correct product configuration, safe operating limits, accurately timed services,
Components in Electronics
exchange of components and timely disposal of products at end of life are all factored in at the product design stage. Connectors with integrated memories are supporting the shift to design safer and smarter products. Safety can be brought to the next level by including identity and memory at a component level for sensors, cables, handheld devices etc. The obvious benefits are increased safety functions such as preventing the use of expired or invalid
Test and measurement market For test and measurement applications, precision is significant. Future communication technologies like enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine type communications (mMTC) and ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC) drive the market where connector systems must guarantee the precise transfer of measurement data at all times. There is growing demand for tracking data, accuracy of measurements, calibration values and surveillance of operations within specific device limits. At the same time, documentation of complex, configurable systems also become more and more demanding of time. Test and measurement demand within the electric vehicle sector has also
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