What are High-Speed Data (HSD) connectors?
Meet the Connector: High-Speed Data Connectors
High-speed data connectors, also called HSDs, address the low-voltage, high-speed data requirements of a wide range of automotive applications. These compact, shielded connectors transmit high-frequency signals and are commonly used in automotive and industrial applications for systems like Ethernet, USB, and LVDS, as well as limited consumer electronics. They provide robust signal integrity, reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI), and support data rates up to 6 Gb/s for advanced communication networks.
HSD connectors were developed as part of an industry-wide effort to meet the growing need for high-speed, reliable data transmission in automotive and industrial applications. The concept and design emerged from a collaboration among connector manufacturers, including Rosenberger and TE Connectivity, to standardize data communication interfaces for applications like Ethernet, USB, and LVDS used in the automotive industry for infotainment systems, cameras, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) as well as for automation systems in industrial environments.
Rosenberger’s HSD interface is the result of a collaboration with OEMs and tier-1 suppliers to promote its adoption as an industry standard.
Design Notes
Standardization
HSDs adhere to the Automotive Open System Architecture (AUTOSAR) connector requirements, ISO and IEC Standards, and protocols including USB, LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signal), Ethernet (IEEE 802.3), Firewire (IEEE 1394), APIX (digital serial link for display and camera point-to-point applications), CAN (Controller Area Network), MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link), and PCIe.
Mounting type or types
HSD connectors typically use a cable-to-board mounting type or cable-to-cable connections, depending on the application.
Mating cycles
Typical HSDs are rated up to 500 cycles.
Positions
HSDs are available in 2 to 12 positions, depending on function requirements.
Dimensions
Width: 10 mm to 25 mm, depending on the number of positions.
Height: 5 mm and 15 mm.
Length: 20 mm to 40 mm.
Adam Tech’s HSD FAKRA connectors satisfy RF requirements in various telematic and multimedia applications, including Satellite Digital Audio Radio Service (SDARS), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), and Global Positioning System (GPS).
Contacts
Pins: 2 to 12
Spacing/Pitch: 1.27 mm
Height: 5 to 15 mm
Contact resistance: Low; around 0.05 to 0.10 ohms per contact
Termination: Solder, crimp, press-fit, or screw-on
Material specifications
Housings are typically made from Polyamide (PA) or PBT (Polybutylene Terephthalate) for high strength, heat resistance, and good electrical insulation. Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE): Used for overmolds and gaskets, providing flexibility and sealing properties for environmental protection.
Physical properties
Insulation: HSD connectors typically use thermoplastic insulation materials with high dielectric strength to ensure reliable signal integrity and electrical insulation.
Shielding: Additionally, the connectors often incorporate metal shielding to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI), further enhancing signal insulation and protecting the integrity of high-speed data transmissions.
Locking mechanism: The connectors are also equipped with locking mechanisms, such as snap-in or bayonet-style locks, to ensure secure mating in environments with high vibration, such as automotive or industrial applications.
TE Connectivity’s fully shielded HSD connector systems support LVDS, Ethernet and USB protocols, and feature a full range of headers and connectors for unsealed and sealed applications.
Environmental properties
IP rating/sealing mechanism: ruggedized HSD connectors may be designed to meet IP67 or IP69K.
Ruggedization: Features may include metal shielding, gaskets, temperature resistant materials, and vibration resistance.
Temperature range: -40 °C to +105 °C or higher for automotive use.
Electrical properties
Voltage AC/DC: Typically 5V to 12V
Current (Amps): Up to 1A per contact (or lower in most cases).
Markets and Applications
Automotive, Consumer, Industrial
In automotive use, HSD connectors are used in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS); displays, audio, and multimedia interfaces; GPS, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2X) communications; and camera systems. In industrial settings, they play a role in robotics, machine vision systems, and Test & Measurement systems. They are also in use in some displays and VR headsets.
Suppliers
HSD connectors are available in many variations from many suppliers, including Adam Tech, Rosenberger, Smiths Interconnect, TE Connectivity, and others.
Related products
LVDS
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