The latest development under the FullAXS line of cable assemblies and connectors from TE Connectivity is the new FullAXS Mini connector line, one of the easiest connector sealing systems to install in rugged outdoor environments. Offering IP65 and IP67 watertight seals, these scalable connectors offer more functionality than their older counterparts, said Stefan Borgas, manager, Product Management, TE’s Data and Devices business unit.
The FullAXS Mini connector sealing system is one of the only products available that enables one-handed, blind installs from many angles. With 3-sense (visual, audio and tangible) locking feedback, floating connections and a twist angle of only 30°, these products can be installed by field engineers of all levels of experience in virtually any location.
The challenge was set to the engineering department to create that 30° torque angle while reducing the larger diameter in the older models. According to Borgas, to connect and disconnect, “on the old design, you used your whole hand. Now, it only requires an index finger.”
In addition, the newer models are more lightweight, as engineers optimized the wall thickness, maintaining an ideal strength to weight ratio. As Borgas said, they are strong but not overly strong.
Space on wireless and other outdoor rugged applications is at a premium, and engineers are designing smaller boxes as a result. Smaller boxes necessitate using connectors wherever possible. TE’s FullAXS Mini connectors deliver the small size and scalability to design-in power and signal connectivity where needed. The new connectors are 23% smaller than TE’s current FullAXS products and can be placed almost anywhere on the box due to their flexible sealing system. The FullAXS Mini connector sealing also uses UV material to meet F1 rating UL 94-V0 and withstands all applicable lightning strike requirements, making them ideal for many harsh outdoor environments, including wireless and microwave equipment, industrial, robotic, and aerospace and defense applications.
“Outdoor wireless and industrial equipment is getting smaller while needing to deliver more functionality, and connectors on that equipment must be smaller and more versatile,” said Borgas. “TE’s FullAXS Mini connector sealing system delivers the small size, ease of installation, and ruggedness necessary for today’s wireless and industrial equipment designs.”
The bayonet locking mechanism on the FullAXS Mini connectors allows for a secure, streamlined design, said Borgas. “This product can be used in urban areas to design for power, signal and fiber,” he said. “We’ve learned a lot since 2009. There was a revolution in the wireless market, and we think we’re a little bit smarter, scalable, with different angles and shapes.”
TE Connectivity
www.te.com/fullaxs
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