Posted to News on 31st Dec 2010, 13:43
Hybrid connector simplifies wiring of servo motors
Tyco Electronics is launching the Motorman hybrid connector for servo motors, integrating communication, signal and power transmission within a compact single connector and therefore requiring only one cable for connection. The Motorman hybrid connector features two fast Ethernet interfaces providing the full benefits of real-time automation control, while reducing cabling complexity. The new connector also offers space for five power sockets, five signal sockets and one earth contact. The reliable and economical MCON 2.8mm and 1.2mm contact system from Tyco Electronics is utilised for the contacts.
The rectangular Motorman connector features a highly compact design, measuring only 41.5 x 22.3mm. Its housing was developed from scratch and is available in metal or plastic versions. The metal housing is suitable for tough industrial environments, whereas the plastic housing is very cost-effective for less demanding environments. The cable does not enter at a right angle, but at an angle of 100 degrees, which ensures a good match of cable bending radius and housing geometry.
A guided lever locks the connector housing onto the motor PCB. The lever is easily opened from the side of the assembly, while it takes a screwdriver to unlock it from the other side (to prevent unintended operation). As the contact insert can be rotated by 180 degrees, the cable can exit in two directions. The spacious side access enables the connector to be very easily assembled. It also makes it much easier to locate faults, as every contact can be checked easily.
The pin housing for mounting on the servo motor PCB has been extensively optimised. First, the low-height solder pins have very little mass and are tailored for automated reflow soldering at 270degC. Second, the signal and power pins are placed and grouped on either side of an integrated barrier. Therefore signal and power paths do not cross, which means that the PCB needs fewer layers.
An innovative cable jacket seal (offering protection to IP 69K) generates two ring-shaped lines of compression around the hybrid cable jacket. Cables of 13-17mm diameter can be assembled with one size of seal and without any torque-controlled tool. A metal clamp serves as strain relief, ensuring a high cable-to-plug tensile strength of >150N. At the same time, the clamp band practically provides a 360-degree cable shield contact.
The Motorman connector has been designed for a DC voltage level ranging from 24V DC up to 600V DC and up to 20A at temperatures of up to 80degC. However, an AC supply with up to 480V AC is also possible by using three to four power contacts. All applicable European standards and UL/CSA guidelines for clearance and creepage distances are met.
For more information on the Motorman hybrid connector contact Tyco Electronics' Product Information Centre at www.te.com/help.
