Page 14 - ConnectorSupplier.com - How-to-Specify Handbook

There have been all too many cases in which the cable and connector both passed independent speed tests, but did not work well when put together, which can both delay and add cost to design cycle.
Summary
Following the steps outlined in this rugged connector selection guide and involving suppliers and fellow designers in the selection process is sure to result in the design and speci cation of smaller, more functional, higher- performance, and higher-reliability devices. Although, there are still many details to address for each of these main bullet points, especially as all of the options surrounding cable assemblies and the realities of how data speed and miniaturization complicate connector selection begin to surface. Cable suppliers are beginning to address to the demand for increased data speeds, but selection is still limited and research into new cable solutions that will further enhance connector solutions is ongoing and continually resulting in new discoveries. Due to these many intricacies, rugged connectors are usually custom-built. There are some off-the-shelf options, but specifying engineers should be prepared for lead-times that are somewhat longer than those for commercial grade connectors. On the plus side, though, engineers specifying rugged connectors are likely to receive more personalized engineering assistance from companies that focus on rugged connector applications, which can help shorten both the learning curve and design cycle a bit.
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