Page 39 - 2021 Connectivity Components: Everything but the Connectors eBook

Don’t Forget Connectors When Designing IoT Applications
Cliff Ortmeyer, Global Head of Technical Marketing, Newark
Experts on the Internet of Things (IoT) believe that the planet-changing technology can only reach its full potential if it is based on wireless communications systems. Although a huge number IoT nodes will certainly be battery-powered and connected wirelessly, a large proportion of IoT systems will still benefit from the use of sensors that are connected via cables.
The issue for those responsible for designing and implementing IoT networks is which type of connector to use. Many companies offer a range of hardware-based connectors well suited to IoT applications but those searching for the best product are on the lookout for differentiating factors. Engineers want to know what makes a product unique, what benefits it provides, and if the supplier has extensive knowledge of the product and can support it in their applications.
Why the future isn’t all wireless
Many electronics hardware design engineers can be forgiven for not being fully aware of the range of modern compact connectors for IoT applications. The focus in recent years has leaned heavily towards wireless sensors but the reality is that hard-wired connectors are vitally important components within many IoT set-ups. Companies such as Newark offer an extensive range of connector solutions for these applications, particularly small connectors that are ideal for fitting to IoT sensors and nodes.
Hard-wired connections can be preferable for many reasons. For example, wired networking often provides far more resilience and robustness in electrically noisy environments where reliable communications are essential without any interference. Similarly, in harsh environments it makes sense to make use of a wide range of Industrial Ethernet connectors that perform far better than wireless technology, including IP-rated connectors that provide protection against the ingress of water, dust, and other elements. In such applications, connectors need to offer compact form- factors in order to minimize the circuit board real estate; standard RJ45 connectors are usually too large.
Examples of IoT-friendly connectors include HARTING’s RJ45 Industrial Ethernet data interfaces that incorporate features such as intuitive locking mechanisms, tool-free fast connection, and thermoplastic or metal hoods and housings. Offering data transmission speeds of up to 10 Gb/s, these connectors tend to be rated to IP20, IP54, IP65, and IP67, while some also provide 4 x 48V/16A or 3 x 300V/16A, depending on the end-user’s requirements.
HARTING’s ix Industrial family of Ethernet interfaces offers a miniaturized alternative to the RJ45 (requiring 70% less space). Referred to as a “small giant” for IoT applications, the ix Industrial family consists of robust plug-in connectors that can produce Cat6A performance for 1 Gb/s to 10 Gb/s Ethernet. Ideal for harsh industrial environments, the units ensure safe data transmission with high EMC immunity.
Some IoT applications, such as monitoring environmental conditions in the logistics sector, may require connectors that incorporate USB connections. Ideally suited to IoT networks, TE Connectivity’s universal connectors provide bi- directional, simultaneous signals for full speed (12 Mb/s) or low speed (1.5 Mb/s) used in USB systems. Easy to install, TE’s systems comprise a single, four-position board-mount receptacle (BMR) and mating cable mount overmolded plug. For flexibility and versatility in all types of USB applications, BMRs are available in standard, Type B, stacked, and side-by-side configurations. While Type-C USB connectors are small enough for use in mobile phones, micro USB 2.0 connectors are the smallest connectors of their kind that are capable of reliable and robust delivery of high- speed data. For transferring data 10 times faster than USB 2.0, design engineers can choose from a range of USB 3.0 connectors which support a data transfer rate of up to 5 Gb/s.
39