Circular connectors are multi-pin electrical connectors with circular contact arrangements, designed for reliable signal/power transmission in harsh environments. They feature robust mechanical structures, environmental sealing, and high mating durability. These connectors are critical in aerospace, industrial automation, and medical equipment where vibration resistance and signal integrity are paramount.
| Type | Functional Characteristics | Application Examples |
|---|---|---|
| MIL-DTL-38999 | High-density, threaded coupling, EMI shielding | Aerospace systems, military vehicles |
| USB Type-C | Reversible design, 10Gbps data rate, 100W power delivery | Smartphones, laptops, PDAs |
| BNC | Bayonet locking, 2GHz frequency range | Test equipment, video systems |
| LVDT Circular | Linear variable differential transformer integration | Industrial sensors, robotics |
Typical construction includes: - Shell: Aluminum alloy/zinc die-cast housing with corrosion-resistant plating - Contacts: Gold-plated phosphor bronze with 0.5-2.0mm diameter - Insulation: High-temperature thermoplastic (200 C rating) - Sealing: IP67/IP68 rated elastomer gaskets - Mounting: Threaded/flange/clamp mechanisms
| Parameter | Typical Range | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Rating | 50V-600V | Determines power transmission capacity |
| Current Rating | 1A-25A/contact | Affects thermal performance |
| Contact Resistance | 5m | Impacts signal integrity |
| IP Rating | IP40-IP68 | Defines environmental protection level |
| Operating Temp | -65 C to +200 C | Material stability indicator |
| Mating Cycles | 500-10,000 | Service life predictor |
| Manufacturer | Key Products | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Amphenol | MIL-DTL-38999 series | Composite materials, EMI filtering |
| TE Connectivity | DEUTSCH D38999 | Thermoplastic housing, 2000V dielectric |
| Molex | USB Type-C 10Gbps | Shielded twinax design |
| Delphi | Automotive circular connectors | IP69K rating for EV charging |
| Lemo | Push-pull circular series | Subminiature, 5000+ mating cycles |
Key considerations: 1. Environmental factors: Temperature extremes, fluid exposure 2. Electrical requirements: Signal type (analog/digital), current load 3. Mechanical constraints: Panel space, mating force limitations 4. Compliance standards: MIL-STD, ISO 6722, RoHS 5. Cost vs. longevity: High-cycle applications justify premium connectors
Emerging developments include: - Miniaturization: 1.0mm contact pitch enabling wearable devices - High-speed transmission: 25Gbps+ differential pairs for industrial IoT - Smart connectors: Integrated sensors for condition monitoring - Material innovation: Graphene-coated contacts reducing resistance - Eco-design: Halogen-free thermoplastics meeting REACH regulations