Rack-and-panel connector doubles contact density

Citation

(1998), "Rack-and-panel connector doubles contact density", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 70 No. 5. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.1998.12770ead.008

Rack-and-panel connector doubles contact density

Rack-and-panel connector doubles contact density

Keywords Aerospace, Connectors, TEC

Enfield-based TEC Electrical Components reports that it has developed a new range of rack-and-panel connectors that provide double the contact density of the conventional connector mounting arrangements found on equipment packages in defence and aerospace applications (Plate 4).

This design breakthrough has been achieved by eliminating the need for coupling nuts on individual circular connectors, which previously required a significant amount of space to allow tightening by hand.

Using standard MIL-C-38999 Series III connectors, mounted directly on both panel and rack, the new design ensures that equipment can be installed quickly and easily, even under blind mating conditions.

Plate 4 New rack-and-panel connector, which doubles contact density

The individual Series III connectors are available in a choice of aluminium or stainless-steel shell materials and can be populated with size 22, 20 or 16 low-insertion-force socket contacts.

Pin-contact connectors and socket-contact versions can be mixed together on both the rack and panel halves, thereby providing maximum design flexibility.

Particularly suitable for high-density interfaces in helicopters, submarines and ground vehicles, the rack-and-panel connectors feature 360° screening and can be specified with keyway polarisation if required.

For further details contact TEC Electrical Components Ltd. Tel: +44 (0) 181 366 1291.