Connectors on the Move

THE NEED FOR RUGGED CONNECTORS IN TRANSPORT VEHICLES MARCO LAMANNA, SENIOR DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST EDAC, INC.

Air, road, sea, and rail, the four main modes of transportation, rely on a range of electrical systems to operate reliably. Connectors are an essential subcomponent used within transportation applications to connect the electrical systems, ensuring functionality and reliability. Electronic connectors used in transportation applications should be rugged as transport vehicles are exposed to many environmental factors. A careful evaluation of the mechanical and electrical requirements for the complete transport vehicle and the electronic systems within it is essential to the specification of interconnects that will provide long-term performance. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR DESIGN ENGINEERS Transport vehicles are exposed to various environmental factors. When specifying connectors for these vehicles, failure to anticipate the complete range of environmental factors a vehicle will face over its service life could lead to mechanical and electrical issues in the field. Electronic failures

could put safety, reliability, and performance into question, and lead to costly potential recalls or the need to repair or upgrade. Temperature: Hot and cold temperatures are a reality for vehicles and the connectors chosen should be able to withstand these extremes without degradation. A rugged connector with a large operating temperature range helps ensure the materials used will not become brittle or contract with exposure to cold, and melt or expand when exposed to heat. Moisture and humidity: Water exposure for transport vehicles is a necessary consideration when designing for these applications. A rugged connector with ingress protection (IP) and proper materials protects against water damage and helps prevent or limit rust and corrosion. Dust and debris: A rugged connector with IP prevents electrical shorting and other damage or interference caused by dust and debris.