Design Issues in High Frequency Connectors

Engineering guidelines that have evolved for the design of electronic connectors over the years are based primarily on the current carrying capacity of the connector and achieving an acceptably small electrical contact resistance. These design guidelines cover key issues of optimal contact force, the selection of appropriate contact materials and surface finish to minimize mechanical wear and fretting corrosion in separable contacts. When considering a high-speed connector, design guidelines must consider important capacitive and inductive characteristics of the connector and electrical contacts, in addition to the aforementioned issues of mechanical integrity. Some of these key characteristics are generally less well-known to the average connector user.  During the week of May 23, on ConnectorSupplier.com, I will address important design issues for fast connectors in an article titled “Five Five High-Frequency Connector Fundamentals.”

Dr. Roland S. Timsit is president at Timron Advanced Connector Technologies, Toronto, Canada, a company focusing on the design/testing/failure-analysis of electrical connectors and switches.  The company offers intensive courses on electrical connectors at various locations in the US.  Details on the courses may be found at https://www.timron-inc.com/courses_tact_schedule.html.  The next course is scheduled for 5-7 June 2017 in Billerica (Boston), MA.