Connectors are an integral part of advanced and modern electronic systems; however, many factors can influence their performance and hinder their applications. For instance, Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) and Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) can cause malfunctions, data loss, and even equipment failure. Similarly, harsh conditions like mechanical stresses, vibrations, and exposure to moisture and dust can also be devastating for these systems. 

This article discusses how Amphenol Sine Systems ecomate® Rugged Metal (RM) Shielded Connectors are ideal for dealing with all these challenges by providing suitable solutions for engineers looking to enhance the performance and reliability of their projects, and it also explores the array of features, applications, and benefits of these shielded connectors.

Introduction to the Product

Amphenol Sine Systems is globally renowned for its interconnect solutions. Their interconnect solutions are suitable for various sectors, including factory automation, industrial, heavy equipment, heavy-duty, transportation, and entertainment/lighting markets. 

Amphenol Sine Systems offers the ecomate® Rugged Metal series of circular connectors specifically designed for engineers requiring a robust and reliable solution in harsh environments. The ecomate® RM series is ideal for applications demanding durability due to its rugged design, which helps them endure harsh mechanical stresses, physical impacts, vibrations, and extreme temperatures, as well as provides unique shielding capabilities in both indoor and outdoor settings. 

Figure 1:Sine Systems ecomate® Rugged Metal (RM) Shielded Connectors. Source: Mouser Electronics

Features and Specifications

EMI/RFI Protection

Radio Frequency Interference and Electromagnetic Interference are disturbances that affect electrical circuits through conduction, electrostatic coupling, or electromagnetic induction. The sources of these disturbances can be power lines, motors, radios, Wi-Fi routers, and other electronic devices. These interferences can cause various issues in electronic devices, including malfunctions, data loss, noise, performance degradation and even reduced lifespan. 

Amphenol Sine Systems ecomate® Rugged Metal Shielded Connectors use high-quality metal materials that not only enhance the physical durability of these connectors but also provide superior shielding against EMI and RFI, which is crucial to maintaining the integrity of data and power transmission, especially in high electrical noise environments.

Available Configurations

The ecomate® RM connectors come in various configurations that include different pin counts and connector types, allowing engineers to choose the exact specification that best suits their project requirements. For instance, the eight shell sizes accommodate different cable diameters and contact densities, providing flexibility to select the most suitable size for their specific power and signal requirements. Moreover, Up to 28 insert arrangements ensure compatibility with various applications.  

Amphenol Sine Systems ecomate® Rugged Metal Shielded Connectors offer a variety of contact types, including machined, stamped and formed, and PCB contact types, providing precision, cost-efficiency, and simplified assembly, respectively that allows engineers to select the most suitable termination method for their application.

The connectors also provide a broad spectrum of power-handling capabilities as they can accommodate wires ranging from 30AWG to 8AWG, which is suitable for applications with low-power signals as well as high-current transmission applications. Similarly, crimp and solder contact terminations are available to cater to varying assembly preferences and equipment. Crimp terminations offer a fast and reliable assembly method, while solder terminations provide a permanent and secure connection.

Figure 2: Connector Configuration. Source: amphenol-sine.com

Environmental Ratings

The Ingress Protection (IP) rating is a crucial feature for connectors because it indicates the level of protection against environmental factors like dust and water, which directly affects the durability and reliability of the connectors in various environments. For instance, connectors used in dusty environments need to be protected against dust ingress to prevent contamination that can impair electrical connections. Similarly, in environments like outdoor, marine, or industrial environments where water exposure is possible, water-resistant connectors are essential to avoid short circuits and potential failures.

Amphenol Sine Systems ecomate® Rugged Metal Shielded Connectors provide an IP67 rating in the mated condition, where '6' indicates the level of protection against solid particles like dust, whereas '7' indicates protection against immersion in water up to 1-meter depth for up to 30 minutes. Moreover, these connectors are corrosion-resistant and can operate at temperatures as high as 125 °C.

Figure 3: Ingress Protection (IP67) Source amphenol-sine.com

Applications

The ecomate® RM series's flexibility allows many applications across various industries. Some of these applications are discussed here.

Solar Energy - Power

In solar energy systems, having a reliable power transmission is critical for the efficient operation. The ecomate® RM series, due to its rugged design and shielding capabilities, provides the perfect solution in these demanding outdoor environments by withstanding harsh weather conditions, including extreme temperatures and windblown debris. Moreover, the high IP67 rating ensures protection against dust and moisture ingress, even during heavy rain. This combination of durability and environmental protection offered by the ecomate® RM series ensures reliability in renewable energy systems by safeguarding the integrity of power connections.

Off-Road - Mining, Railway, Mobile Equipment

The ecomate® RM series is well suited for the challenging environments encountered in off-road applications such as mining, railway, and mobile equipment that often involve high mechanical stress, shock, vibration, and exposure to extreme temperatures, dust, salt, and water. The rugged metal shell and high IP67 rating of the ecomate® RM series provide corrosion resistance, water and dust proofing, and resistance against these mechanical stresses, which ensures reliable performance and minimizes connector failure risk.

Instrumentation – Measurement, Water Metering

The imperative of precision and reliability in instrumentation applications like process control, environmental monitoring, and scientific research is undeniable; however, it is compromised by noise and signal distortion. The high-quality, rugged metal material of the ecomate® RM series provides protection against electromagnetic and radio frequency interference that guarantees precise and reliable signal transmission without any electrical noise and signal distortion. This ensures the integrity of collected data, accurate measurements and reliable operation of instrumentation equipment. For instance, in measurement devices or water metering systems, these connectors ensure accurate data transmission and reliable performance without compromising the accuracy of measurements.

Building Automation - HVAC, Lighting, Closed Circuit TV

Amphenol Sine Systems' ecomate® RM Series Connectors offer several advantages for building management systems (BMS) applications involving HVAC, lighting, and closed-circuit TV (CCTV). The rugged construction, along with 45A / 600V maximum ratings, enables these connectors to handle the power requirements of these building automation systems. Various shell sizes, insert arrangements, and contact types offer flexibility to accommodate diverse wiring requirements within BMS applications. Moreover, the connectors are intermatable with other industry-standard connectors, which allows easy integration into existing systems.

Telecom – Data Infrastructure, Traffic Control

The ecomate® RM series also delivers dependable data and control connections for telecom applications and ensures reliable signal transmission within critical infrastructure such as data centers, communication towers, and traffic control systems. This minimizes disruptions and ensures the smooth operation of communication networks and traffic management systems.

Benefits

Engineers can leverage several key benefits by incorporating ecomate® RM connectors into their designs. 

Versatility Across Industries

The diverse configurations and robust design make the ecomate® RM series adaptable to a wide range of applications, which simplifies design processes, reduces inventory requirements, and promotes standardization across projects. Engineers can streamline design and optimize project efficiency with a single connector solution catering to various needs. Moreover, the contacts can be shared with other ecomate® connectors like ecomate® Aquarius™, Aquarius™ Fathom Lock, and RSSM series, providing flexibility.

Enhanced Environmental Protection

Another huge advantage offered by ecomate® RM Shielded Connectors is that they provide protection against harsh environmental factors. For instance, dust can severely impact the performance and reliability of ordinary electrical connectors by acting as an insulating layer, increasing contact resistance and causing signal interference. 

Dust particles can also cause abrasion, leading to wear and unreliable connections, and may obstruct mechanical parts, making connectors difficult to mate properly. Moreover, dust, along with moisture, can carry corrosive substances that promote contact corrosion and contamination, further impairing connectivity. All of these harmful environmental factors can be easily avoided by using ecomate® RM Shielded Connectors with rugged metal construction and high IP ratings that safeguard against dust, moisture, corrosion and extreme temperatures.

Improved Performance and Longevity of Connected Systems

Ecomate® RM Shielded Connectors are particularly crucial in applications involving sensitive electronics or high-speed data transfer, where even minor disruptions can lead to system malfunctions. The shielding capabilities of Ecomate® RM Shielded Connectors minimize signal interference and ensure reliable data transmission. Moreover, the rugged construction enhances the overall longevity of connected systems, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Amphenol Sine Systems ecomate® Rugged Metal Shielded Connectors are a standout choice for engineers seeking reliable, durable, and versatile connectors for their projects. The robust metal construction, advanced shielding capabilities, and high Ingress Protection ratings allow these connectors to perform in the most challenging conditions. 

Their applications span across various industries, from renewable energy and off-road applications to building automation and telecom, which is a testament to their versatility and reliability. The ecomate® RM connectors not only provide enhanced protection against environmental factors but also improve the performance and longevity of connected systems.

Call to Action

For engineers looking to enhance the performance and reliability of their projects, the ecomate® RM connectors are the dependable solution. Consider integrating these connectors into your next project to experience their exceptional benefits and performance. Amphenol Sine Systems' commitment to quality and innovation guarantees that the ecomate® RM connectors will meet and exceed your expectations.

For further information on the ecomate® RM series specifications, configurations, and compatibility with your specific application, visit the website of their authorized distributor, Mouser Electronics   https://eu.mouser.com/new/amphenol/amphenol-eco-mate-rm-connectors/. The website offers comprehensive product information, including datasheets, assembly instructions, catalog and installation guides. Additionally, authorized distributors can provide technical support and assist you in selecting the most suitable connector configuration for your project requirements.

References

1. Amphenol Sine Systems ecomate® Rugged Metal (RM) Shielded Connectors. Mouser Electronics. [Online], Available at: https://eu.mouser.com/new/amphenol/amphenol-eco-mate-rm-connectors/
2. Amphenol Sine Systems and Amphenol Tuchel Electronics GmbH. [Online], Available at: https://www.amphenol-sine.com/about