3 New Connectors Push the Limits of Compact Size and High Performance

With Electronica 2024 fading into the rearview mirror, we reflected on some overlooked yet important products that debuted at the show. Perhaps no component meets this description as aptly as the humble connector. 

In this article, we'll spotlight three connectors from Samtec, Attend, and Same Sky Interconnect Group engineered to handle faster data transfer rates, greater power requirements, and higher frequencies while maintaining exceptional durability.

Samtec: Microwave Cable Assemblies

Samtec recently announced its LL043 series Nitrowave microwave cable assembly. This solution includes a flexible, low-loss microwave coaxial cable with high amplitude and phase stability for demanding applications such as test and measurement, 5G communications, aerospace and defense, and semiconductor design.

Jurgen Kapfer at Samtec's Electronica booth, showing the company's Nitrowave product demo. 

What sets this new series apart is its advanced construction, ensuring the performance remains stable even when the cable is flexed. It includes an interlayer and low-density PTFE dielectric material to maintain consistent electrical performance throughout its lifespan. The cable's durability is proven, with a flex life tested for 400,000 cycles and a torque life of 1,000,000 cycles (+/- 90°), making it well-suited for applications requiring repeated movement.

The series supports frequencies up to 43.5 GHz and offers superior low-loss performance with a 30% improvement over traditional designs at high frequencies. In addition, it features a maximum VSWR of 1.4:1 and shielding techniques that provide a minimum of 100 dB shielding effectiveness against electromagnetic interference (EMI), facilitating clean signal transmission. For flexible integration, Samtec offers many connector options, such as SMA plugs, bulkhead jacks (up to 26.5 GHz), and 2.92-mm and 2.4-mm plugs (up to 43.5 GHz).

Attend: USB4 Gen 3 Type-C Receptacle Connectors

Attend has introduced its USB4 Gen 3 type-C receptacle connectors for applications exacting high speeds and durability. These connectors support data transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps and can handle currents of 5 A with input voltages up to 48 VDC. This combination may offer fast data transmission and stable power delivery for smartphones, laptops, and IoT equipment.

Attend's Kenneth Fu shows the company's selection of connectors at Attend's Electronica booth.

Attend's USB4 connectors leverage insert molding technology to prevent pin deformation and increase signal integrity and longevity. They are rated for 10,000 cycles, and their durability is further enhanced by a UL 94V-0 flammability rating and low contact resistance (40 mΩ). For circuit designers, the flexibility in mounting options—surface-mount, mid-mount, and through-hole configurations—combined with the reversible plug and cable configuration offers versatility and ease of integration into various device designs.

Same Sky Interconnect Group: Compact USB 2.0 Type-C Connectors

Same Sky Interconnect Group also presented its expanded USB Type-C connector lineup at Electronica with the UJ20 family, a series of ultra-compact connectors. With package lengths as short as 5.9 mm, these connectors are well-suited for applications with limited board space, such as wearable devices, compact consumer electronics, and portable IoT products. Despite their small size, the UJ20 connectors support data transfer speeds up to 480 Mbps and power delivery up to 240 W at 48V and 5A.

The UJ20. Image used courtesy of Same Sky Interconnect Group

Same Sky asserts that the UJ20 connectors' compact size does not compromise their durability or reliability. They have a high mating cycle rating of 10,000 cycles and a wide operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. Just like the previous two solutions, these connectors also come in various orientations and mounting options for flexibility.

In Pursuit of Speed, Power, and Durability

Engineers and circuit designers are increasingly faced with the challenge of integrating advanced connectivity solutions into smaller, more powerful devices. Manufacturers like those highlighted in this article have developed connectors that not only meet the need for higher data speeds and power delivery but also address space constraints and long-term reliability.