The CMM SMPM, developed through a partnership between Nicomatic and Radiall, merges the strengths of both companies—the modularity of the CMM series and Radiall’s expertise in high-frequency RF technology.
This hybrid connector integrates RF and digital signals within a single interface. Key features of the connector include:
CMM SMPM Connector
- RF performance up to 40 GHz, meeting high-frequency requirements.
- Data transmission capability up to 50 Gbps for fast digital signals.
- High-density design with up to 10 contacts per row, optimizing space usage.
- Compact and lightweight construction, suitable for constrained environments.
- Secure locking mechanism for enhanced mechanical stability.
Incorporating RF and digital signals within a single design presents a significant challenge. Balancing electrical performance, miniaturization, and environmental demands—while maintaining system reliability—is no easy task. Every project introduces unique obstacles, making it difficult to achieve a solution that meets all requirements without compromise.
Miniaturization & System Density
Modern embedded systems continue to shrink, making efficient use of every square millimeter essential. However, increasing functionality necessitates integrating additional RF and digital interfaces, complicating the overall architecture.
Accommodating numerous connectors within limited space is a recurring issue, affecting thermal regulation, routing, and ease of access. At times, components must be stacked or placed in extremely close proximity, reducing wiring options and increasing the likelihood of assembly mistakes. Reliable connectivity must be ensured without overcrowding PCBs or sacrificing performance.
By integrating RF and digital signals into one connector, the CMM SMPM enables high-density configurations (up to 10 contacts per row), maintaining a streamlined, efficient system layout.
Signal Integrity & RF Performance
When RF and digital signals are positioned closely together, the risk of electromagnetic interference (EMI) significantly increases. Signal degradation, parasitic coupling, and impedance mismatches all threaten transmission stability.
While everything may function well in controlled environments, high electromagnetic density in real-world conditions can quickly deteriorate signal quality, disrupting communication between modules. A strong, stable signal must be maintained amid interference.
Utilizing Radiall’s SMPM contacts, the CMM SMPM supports RF performance up to 40 GHz and data rates up to 50 Gbps, ensuring resistance to interference and optimal signal integrity.
Durability in Harsh Conditions
In aerospace, defense, and industrial applications, equipment must endure extreme vibrations, thermal variations, and mechanical stress.
Picture an RF connector becoming loose mid-flight or a critical connection failing due to intense vibrations.
Most standard connectors on the market are not designed for such severe conditions.
Additional reinforcements, specialized fasteners, or even complete system redesigns may be required—adding weight and increasing assembly complexity. Mechanical reliability must be ensured without negatively impacting the system.
The CMM SMPM’s secure locking mechanism guarantees a firm, stable connection. Designed for harsh environments, this connector combines durability with a lightweight structure—eliminating the need for additional reinforcements.
Complexity of Integration & Cable Organization
Employing separate connectors for RF and digital signals increases complexity: more potential points of failure, more intricate assemblies, and added weight.
You may have spent countless hours checking cable lengths, aligning interfaces, and troubleshooting assembly errors. A single solution that minimizes interconnections while improving reliability would be beneficial.
By consolidating multiple signal types into one connector, the CMM SMPM reduces the number of interconnections, simplifying cable management. This results in fewer failure points, faster assembly, and increased overall reliability.
Transforming System Architectures
The CMM SMPM effectively addresses the challenges of system density, RF performance, and durability. By enabling seamless signal integration, reducing interconnections, simplifying wiring, and securing the entire system—even in the harshest conditions—it provides a comprehensive solution.
With the inclusion of SMPM contacts in the CMM series, this connector delivers a compact, modular, and highly adaptable design, ready to meet the most demanding real-world applications.
