Micro and nano-miniature connector specialist Omnetics has pinpointed five key trends driving innovation in the global connectors industry.
The digital revolution has reshaped industries worldwide. From industrial processes to medical fields, military operations, and space exploration, Industry 4.0 has introduced cutting-edge technologies that are transforming the electronic connectors sector.
Several factors influence the evolving global connector and cable market. Whether it’s the emergence of new technologies such as automation and the Internet of Things (IoT), or challenges stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic and international trade tensions, the landscape is continuously shifting.
Utilizing Secure Systems for Data Collection
In today’s digital age, IoT networks are deployed in everything from industrial sensor setups to military surveillance systems. These systems require robust, high-quality sensors to gather information, and as vast amounts of data are processed, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and advanced analytics tools are essential.
Security is a critical factor in these systems, especially against cyber threats and electromagnetic interference (EMI). The advancements brought by digital transformation come with new risks, and safeguarding systems from cyber-attacks and intentional EMI in electronic warfare is crucial. Effective shielding solutions are necessary to address these challenges.
High-Performance Processing at Low Voltages
With the rise of the internet came a surge in data traffic. Traditionally, processors with high enough clock speeds (measured in MHz) to handle large amounts of data required higher voltages.
However, newer processors offering gigabit processing speeds at low voltages not only manage vast data loads without overclocking, but also consume less power and generate less heat.
This results in optimal long-term performance. Additionally, low-voltage electronics are increasingly sought after by industries exposed to harsh environmental conditions, where efficient and reliable operation is critical.
Advanced Materials for High-Frequency PCBs
The shift from wired to wireless networks, especially with the growing use of 5G technology, has driven the demand for high-frequency electronic devices. While FR4 laminates are commonly used in printed circuit boards (PCBs), their dielectric constant (Dk) stability can be lacking.
The dielectric constant refers to the ratio of the electric permeability of a material compared to the electric permeability of free space (or vacuum permittivity). A lower Dk improves signal transmission speed, reducing delays. As wireless communication becomes more prevalent, low Dk materials are becoming more important for maintaining the performance of high-frequency devices, particularly in applications such as satellite communication.
Model-Based Systems Engineering for Digital Processes
According to the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE), “Model-based systems engineering (MBSE) is the formalised application of modelling to support system requirements, design, analysis, verification and validation activities beginning in the conceptual design phase and continuing throughout development and later life cycle phases.”
In the Industry 4.0 era, digital processes are essential as traditional document-centric methods give way to model-based approaches and IoT technologies.
With digital transformation generating vast amounts of data, managing it efficiently becomes complex. MBSE helps develop and validate digital process models, allowing organizations to mitigate risk by analyzing both process architecture and model approaches. This facilitates greater flexibility and control over large-scale digital transformations.
Mobility in Military and Defense Applications
The defense sector increasingly prioritizes mobility. This includes connectivity for autonomous robots, dismounted soldiers, and rescue or recreational equipment, all of which require portable technology. However, the extreme conditions often faced in defense scenarios, such as high-impact environments and harsh climates, make this a challenging task.
To support mobile military technologies, there is a demand for miniature electronic sensors, detectors, transmitters, and rugged wiring, all of which must be designed to endure the shocks, vibrations, and environmental extremes of the battlefield. The portability of these components is crucial for ensuring effective mobile troop technology.
Impact on Connectors and Cables
The design, development, and production of connectors and cables are evolving to meet the demands of these emerging market trends.
Connectors must now be compact, lightweight, and durable, with interconnected systems requiring multiple mating cycles. Additionally, the demand for multiple sets of differential signal pairs, effectively shielded from each other, is growing. These signal pairs are ideal for low-voltage electronics and offer strong EMI resistance.
In terms of materials, new connector insulators and shells are being developed with lower capacitance and lower Dk, moving away from traditional FR4 weaves. In many cases, cables for PCBs are shorter or even eliminated, improving performance in high-frequency applications.
Current trends also call for connectors with higher pin counts to support phased array data management, allowing for secure and efficient collection, storage, and access. Additionally, laser-based transmission is gradually overtaking older microwave broadcast technologies, offering superior control and precision in data transmission.
Omnetics has been at the forefront of micro-miniature and nano-miniature connector design and manufacturing for over 30 years. The company’s comprehensive product range is crafted with the future in mind, ensuring users are prepared for the evolving market trends in Industry 4.0.
