Feature: Connectors


The role of connectors in the Internet of Military Things


By Alex Raymond, Product Manager, PEI-Genesis T


he advent of the Internet of T ings (IoT) has transformed many sectors, from healthcare and manufacturing to transportation,


revolutionising the way we interact with the world around us. In the defence and security sector specifi cally, the emergence of the Internet of Military T ings (IoMT) is promising to enhance military capabilities and improve effi ciency, through an interconnected network of devices, equipment and systems. With an integrated network of sensors, communications systems and data analytics tools, IoMT will enable real-time monitoring, analysis and decision making in military operations. Although it’s diffi cult to estimate the IoMT


market size due to the sensitive nature of the information, a 2022 report by GlobalData puts it at $486bn in 2020, and predicts growth to $807bn by 2025, at a compound annual growth rate of 11%.


Soldier wearables T e development of innovative soldier wearables is the most prominent among IoMT devices. According to a research by ReportLinker, the military wearables market is expected to exceed $5.6bn by the end of 2023 and double that by 2030. Programs like the US Army’s “Nett


Warrior” specify systems for the development of the “future soldier”, ensuring that every piece of equipment – down to the smallest connector – is designed for enhanced tactical capabilities. Similarly, head-mounted


command-and-control displays equipped with augmented reality, such as Microsoſt ’s Integrated Visual Augmentation System headset, are rapidly being adopted. Integrating wearable devices to monitor


vital signs, fatigue levels and each soldier’s location enables better health management and operational planning. Biometric sensors play an essential role here, since they track heart rate, hydration levels, body temperature and other critical parameters in real time. Connector types commonly used in these applications include magnetic and push-pull options for quick and easy mating, USB-C, micro-USB and HDMI connectors for power, video and data transfer.


Robust data transmission Military operations oſt en take place in challenging environments, where conditions can be extreme. T is means that the IoMT connectors must be suitable for these environments, withstanding wide temperature ranges, vibration and exposure to water, dust and contaminants. A reliable and rugged connector ensures uninterrupted data transmission between sensors, devices and control centres, enabling real-time situational awareness and rapid decision making. Data collected from IoMT systems can be


analysed by machine-learning algorithms, to provide predictive insights regarding equipment failures, supply chain disruptions and potential threats. To ensure the reliable acquisition and


transmission of data, circular connectors are typically used, like MIL-DTL-38999, MIL-


28 October 2023 www.electronicsworld.co.uk


DTL-26482 and military-grade RJ45, which are known for their robustness, reliability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions. T e most prevalent MIL-SPEC standards include MIL-DTL-5015 and MIL-DTL-26500. Similarly, many other standards exist that


cover diff erent aspects of military equipment, such as the Generic Open Soldier System Reference Architecture (GOSSRA), German VG standards and NATO Standardization Agreement (STANAG), which establish a common set of technical requirements, ensuring interoperability and compatibility in joint military operations.


Interoperability IoMT is characterised by a diverse array of interconnected devices that could be from diff erent manufacturers, nations or military branches. Standardised connectors allow interoperability between numerous military assets, enabling seamless integration and cooperation across the battlefi eld. To enhance IoT equipment connectivity,


middleware platforms and standardised APIs, as well as Message Queuing Telemetry Transport, are used to facilitate communication and data exchange between diverse devices and systems. IoMT is certainly a growing trend in defence


and security, and connectors play an essential role, to underpin this platform’s successful integration and operation. PEI-Genesis off ers rugged and reliable interconnect options from many manufacturers, which comply with MIL- SPEC standards and encompass all aspects of IoMT – from soldier-worn applications to land vehicles, aircraſt and weapon systems.


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