Meet the Connector: VITA 67
What are VITA 67 connectors?
VITA 67 connectors are a family of standards under the VITA (VMEbus International Trade Association) organization, specifically designed for coaxial and RF (Radio Frequency) interconnects in VPX systems (VITA 46). These connectors are used to integrate high-frequency signals into ruggedized embedded computing systems, making them ideal for applications that require reliable RF and microwave signal transmission. VITA 67 adds RF capabilities to VITA 46 VPX board-to-board connections. This standard provides a standardized coaxial interface for RF, video, and other analog signals.
The VITA 67 standards were developed to address the need for high-density, rugged RF and coaxial interconnect solutions in VPX (VITA 46) systems. It emerged as an extension of the VPX standard to accommodate modern systems requiring reliable high-frequency signal transmission in challenging environments. VITA 67 development was initiated in the early 2010s in a collaborative effort between Radiall, Rosenberger, Samtec, SV Microwave, TE Connectivity, and other connector companies in response to the need for high-density, rugged RF and coaxial interconnect solutions in VPX (VITA 46) systems. It emerged as an extension of the VPX standard to accommodate modern systems requiring reliable high-frequency signal transmission in challenging environments.

SV Microwave’s SMPM Female VITA 67.1/67.2 to SMA Male 12″ Cable Assembly for .047 Cable
Revisions and Updates
VITA 67 has undergone multiple updates since its initial publication in 2012.
VITA 67.1 and VITA 67.2 were released in 2012. This revision defines coaxial RF modules with 4 and 8 positions, respectively.
VITA 67.3 was released in 2018. This standard allowed mixing RF connectors with other interconnect types for greater flexibility and system integration.
Design Notes
Standardization Mounting type: VITA 67 connectors are mounted on VPX backplanes and corresponding plug-in modules. The modules are typically secured using screws or guide pins. They often use a floating interface design to accommodate slight misalignments during mating.
Mating cycles: 500 to 1,000 mating cycles
Pins/Positions: VITA 67.1: 4 RF contacts; VITA 67.2: 8 RF contacts; VITA 67.3: typically 4 or 8 positions
Dimensions: The dimensions for VITA 67 connectors are designed to integrate into the VPX backplane system, which follows the mechanical guidelines established in VITA 46.
Contacts
Spacing/Pitch: The pitch (spacing between the pins) for VITA 67 connectors is standardized, typically around 0.8 mm to 1.00 mm between adjacent RF contacts, depending on the connector type and number of positions.
Contact resistance: Less than 10 milliohms (mΩ)
Termination: Solder, crimp, push-pull, PCB, direct wire
Material specifications
Aluminum Alloy (typically 6061-T6 or 7075-T6) is most commonly used for VITA 67 connector housings. In some cases, stainless steel is used for greater durability and resistance to corrosion, especially in harsh environments. Nickel, zinc, or alloy plating may be used.
Physical properties
Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial in high-frequency RF and hybrid signal connectors to ensure that the electrical signals are accurately transmitted without interference or degradation. The insulation materials used in VITA 67 connectors must be highly reliable, especially in harsh environments like military, aerospace, and industrial applications.
Shielding: Shielding is especially important in RF (radio frequency) and hybrid connectors, as high-frequency signals are particularly susceptible to interference from external sources, which can lead to signal degradation, noise, and even complete signal failure.
Locking mechanism: Threaded, bayonet, push-pull, spring-lock, lever locking
Environmental properties
IP rating/Sealing mechanism: IP 67 or IP68
Ruggedization: Ruggedization of these connectors involves multiple design strategies and standards that ensure mechanical robustness, environmental protection, and long-term reliability.
Temperature range: -55 °C to +125 °C (in some cases, up to +150 °C for certain configurations)
Electrical properties
Voltage AC/DC: Typically, VITA 67 connectors are rated for up to 500V DC or 1000V DC. Some high-power versions of VITA 67 connectors, such as those used for power transmission or hybrid connectors (carrying both signal and power), can be rated for higher DC voltages (e.g., up to 1500V DC or more, depending on the application).
Current (Amps): Typically 10A to 50A per contact, though some designs can handle up to 100A or more, depending on the specific application and the size of the contacts.
Markets and Applications
Industrial, Military and AerospaceVITA 67 connectors meet the demanding requirements of aerospace, military, industrial, and communications systems.
Suppliers
VITA 67 connectors are available in many variations from many suppliers, including Molex, SV Microwave, TE Connectivity, and others.
Related products
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