Positronic Aerospace Connectors
Aerospace applications require rugged, reliable connectors. After all, in some cases, aerospace connectors are literally shooting for the moon. To operate and survive in harsh environments, aviation and space flight technologies demand lightweight, high-density connectivity solutions that can withstand extreme heat, shock, and vibration. Safety, reliability, and longevity are paramount.
AEROSPACE CONNECTORS DEFINED
The end-user customers in the aerospace industry have zero patience for inferior-quality interconnects that can adversely impact their equipment’s lifespan and performance. They seek out aerospace connectors that are optimized for high performance as well as size, weight, and power (commonly known as SWaP). Connectors deployed in aerospace applications must meet stringent requirements related to size, shape, reliability, and protection. In addition, due to the high-speed data rate used by today’s complex aeronautic equipment, many applications require interconnect solutions that support a high flow of information at accelerated speeds.
Due to the limited space onboard aircraft and satellites, compact and space-efficient connectors are preferable. However, these connectors must also be lightweight; the higher the mass of the aircraft, the more energy is required to move it. Because lightweight materials like plastic and elastomers sometimes present outgassing issues over time, space-grade connectors must meet stringent outgas testing requirements. To qualify for aerospace deployment, they must meet a number of other performance metrics as well, such as the Electronic Components Industry Association’s EIA-364. In addition, they must be tested and approved by the space agency of the country they will be representing, such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) or the European Space Agency.
Numerous aspects of aerospace interconnects can be ruggedized to ensure hermetic sealing, robust resistance to shock, and superior strength to withstand vibration. These connectors are designed and developed for harsh environments and must be able to resist high temperatures, corrosion, electromagnetic interference (EMI), and lighting. Keep in mind that because connectors are typically located deep inside an aircraft, inside the wiring systems within the body of the structure, they are often difficult to access and replace. This is yet another reason why it’s important for aerospace connectors to be durable, resilient, and long-lasting.
Each component of an aircraft plays a critical role – if it didn’t, it wouldn’t be included. While redundant systems are often added to aircraft and pilots can work around some issues, a faulty connection caused by a poorly reporting instrument will not be tolerated. Picture an aerospace connector that is located on the instrument panel of the cockpit. Any issues with that tiny connector could cause highly stressful issues that threaten the safety of the system. Hundreds of connectors are required to satisfy interconnect requirements aboard an aircraft, and each connector must work reliably to ensure a smooth operation.
USES
Interconnects for the aerospace industry are utilized in a variety of applications. These include communication and navigation equipment, in-flight entertainment systems aboard commercial aircraft, radar systems, guidance control, and others. Failure is not an option in these high-stakes applications, so aerospace connectors are held to the highest standards and specifications. Failsafe performance is a minimum requirement.
Aerospace connectors are suitable for use in any application requiring high-performance, non-outgassing, and low-magnetic characteristics. Whether they’re used in cockpit avionics or critical space-bound aircraft, aerospace connectors must perform in wide-ranging conditions and adverse environments.
