What are MICE connectors? 

What are MICE connectors?

Meet the Connector: MICE Connectors

MICE connectors are a category of ruggedized connectors designed for harsh industrial environments that require robust and reliable connections. MICE is an acronym for Mechanical, Ingress, Climatic, and Electromagnetic protection.

The concept of MICE gained traction in the late 20th century as industries began to ask for more durable and resilient connectors to handle the harsh conditions of manufacturing, outdoor installations, and other demanding settings. ODVA, IEC, and TIA co-developed the MICE requirements to address the need for enhanced physical durability, environmental resistance, and electromagnetic shielding to maintain performance in tough operating conditions.

Connector types that are available in MICE-compliant versions include some of the most popular industrial interfaces, including RJ45 connectors, M-type circular connectors, fiber optic connectors (SC, LC, and MPO connectors), data and signal connectors, and heavy-duty connectors.

METZ CONNECT’s Class E_A Cable Connector is available in three variants for tool-less installation in networks that require MICE protection.

Design Notes

Standardization: While the term “MICE” can be informally used to describe ruggedized connectors, it is typically associated with specific standards set by recognized industry bodies, such as ISO/IEC 24702 and TIA-1005. These standards define the performance criteria for connectors. For a connector to be officially designated as MICE-compliant, it must undergo testing and certification according to these standards.

Material and performance specifications

To achieve the MICE designation, connectors must be tested to a specific set of requirements:

Mechanical (M)

• Durability: The connectors must withstand repeated mating and unmating cycles without significant wear or loss of performance.
• Impact Resistance: They must resist damage from physical impacts, such as drops or hits.
• Vibration and Shock: Connectors should perform reliably under conditions of mechanical vibration and shock, common in industrial settings.

Ingress (I)

• Dust and Particle Protection: The connectors must be sealed against dust and other small particles, typically rated using the IP (Ingress Protection) code.
• Water Resistance: They should be protected against water ingress, with ratings often ranging from IP65 (protected against low-pressure water jets) to IP68 (protected against long-term immersion).

Climatic (C)

• Temperature Range: Connectors must operate effectively across a wide range of temperatures, from extreme cold to high heat.
• Humidity Resistance: They should maintain performance in high-humidity environments without corroding or degrading.
• Corrosion Resistance: Materials used must resist corrosion from chemicals, salt spray, and other environmental factors.

Electromagnetic (E)

• EMI/RFI Shielding: Connectors must provide shielding against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), ensuring signal integrity in noisy environments.
• Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): They should not emit excessive electromagnetic noise that could interfere with other devices.

Within each of the parameters of MICE, three levels of increasing performance can be achieved. For example, within the “C” (Climactic) range, if the ambient temperature in the application environment ranges between -10 °C to +60 °C, it falls within the C1 class; if the ambient temperature ranges between -25 °C to +70 °C, the environment meets the C2 classification; environments that experience ambient temperature fluctuations between -40 °C to +70 °C, are a C3 MICE classification (the most severe).

Amphenol’s MUSBR series USB Type C Connectors is a line of Generation 2 ruggedized USB Type C connectors with die cast housings and IP67 sealing, designed for harsh environment applications with MICE requirements.

Markets and Applications

MICE connectors are used in Industrial, Medical, Transportation, Military and Aerospace, Datacom and Telecom, and other markets that require superior durability.

Suppliers

MICE connectors are available in many variations from many suppliers, including Amphenol, TE Connectivity, METZ-Connect, Molex, HARTING, Phoenix Contact, Rosenberger, and Weidmüller

Related products

RJ45

Heavy-duty connectors

M-Type connectors

Like this article? Check out our other Meet the Connector and Harsh Environment articles, our Industrial Market Page, and our 2024 Article Archives. 

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