Interconnects and the Evolution of Modern Flight Systems

Glenair // 01-26-2022

Today, every part of an aircraft, spacecraft or ship can contain mission-critical electronics. Keeping those electronics in constant, secure communication requires high-speed datalinks –a critical feature in today’s sensor, video and computing applications. Power connections are equally vital to keep these sensors, electromechanical devices and other systems functioning.

This article from Glenair’s QwikConnect Magazineexamines the evolving needs for smaller, lighter and more powerful interconnects and how designers can meet these challenges:

From low-power sensor requirements (say 3-5 amps) to higher power requirements for actuators and other electromechanical devices, the delivery of reliable power is a key requirement in EWIS wiring. In all these cases –RF, high-speed digital and power, as well as in more conventional signal (databus) applications –industry requirements have evolved far beyond the capabilities of conventional interconnect devices. Gone are the days when a standard-density power or signal connector would be of any interest to EWIS designers facing extreme data-rate, mechanical, environmental and electrical requirements of operation. Likewise gone is any interest in interconnect technologies that fail to contribute to size and weight reduction efforts in modern aerospace systems.

Read the full article on glenair.com