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of up to 60V. This enables automotive manufacturers to support 48V wiring architecture by upgrading proven form factors, resulting in minimal design work.
For example, advanced data-signal hybrid connectors combine data, signal, and power into one connector— crucial for 12V and 48V systems. Designed to optimize next-generation zonal architectures, hybrid connector families, like Molex’s MX-DaSH data-signal hybrid connectors , offer versatile configurations to support different power and signal terminal sizes, such as 0.50, 0.64, 1.20, 1.50, 2.80, or 4.80 mm, as well as high-speed FAKRA-Mini (HFM) modules for high-speed data trans- mission. These connectors reduce the number of inline, wire-to-board connectors needed for an instrument panel and reduce body control harnesses from eight to two while removing up to six meters of copper wiring, depending on the vehicle. New developments in hybrid connector technology include micro versions with the highest density and smallest terminal interface available, along with modular options with highly versatile, configurable interfaces for unprecedented design flexibility. By integrating power and high-speed data transmissions within a single con- nector system, automakers can achieve major savings in size, space, cost, and labor. Advancements in connector designs, materials, and manufacturing methodologies will continue to trans- form the journey to full electrification. Autonomous driving also requires massive amounts of data from sensors, which require high-speed, high-density con- nectors with more pins and shielding as well as tighter tolerances. For safety-critical systems, redundancy is paramount, leading to duplicate sensors, redundant communication paths, and fail-safe connections. The best path forward requires a pragmatic approach, dual-voltage solutions, and high-density, modular connectors that meet ever-increasing data bandwidth requirements. Looking ahead, the next generation of high-power, high-comfort, and high-safety vehicle fea- tures will depend upon seamless integration of legacy 12V and emerging 48V systems. Connect with Molex to learn more.
The Molex MX150 Mid-Voltage Connector system leverages the company’s proven MX150 design with an upgraded capability for a voltage rating of up to 60V. Additionally, sealed hybrid connectors enable design engineers to fit more power and signal transmission into smaller spaces. Ideally suited for high-vibration applications in automotive engines and other harsh environments, these compact connector systems can optimize limited space with 0.50 mm terminals that use up to 20% less interface space than legacy 0.64 mm designs.
Molex’s family of Compactus sealed hybrid connectors
Holistic view, modular connectivity To usher in the future of next-generation vehicle elec- trical architecture, design engineers must embrace a holistic view that encompasses modular platforms of interchangeable components for supporting dual-volt- age vehicle designs. Equally important is deploying connectors capable of handling a mix of high-speed data signals, power, and even coaxial connections with a single, compact module.
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