High performance connectors for data transmission in railway vehicle networks

     TE has introduced a new line of M12 rail connectors for field assembly. The M12 X-Code series connector offers data transfer speeds of up to 10Gb/s(according to IEC 802.3an Cat 6a), full metal housing provides full EMI/RFI interference protection, and meets IP67 dust and water resistance standards. The intended applications of this series of connectors include data and sensor networks, train door control assemblies, and rail vehicle HVAC systems.

     Egbert Stellinga, TE's global product Manager for the X-Code Series connectors for the M12 railway, said: "The future of transport will become faster and more networked. Modern rail networks are all about speed and reliability. Our new compact connectors can be assembled quickly in the field, and once installed, they enable extremely high data transfer speeds while avoiding network outages. The connector also helps reduce service costs thanks to its unique torsion-free stress elimination design."

     The machined gold-plated contact points used in the new connectors are designed to cope with high frequency vibration environments (DIN EN 61373 Cat 1, Class B), providing uninterrupted service throughout the life of the connector. All non-metallic components (except connector sheathing) are made from materials that meet the HL3 requirements of the EN45545-2 European Standard for the fire performance of railway rolling Stock Materials and products. Both the crimping flange and the crimping cylinder can be matched to the selected cable. The wire size suitable for the contacts is AWG 22-28.

     The connector operates in a temperature range of -40 ° C to 70 ° C (with grip cover), or -40 ° C to 85 ° C (without grip cover). Tests have proved that the product can withstand more than 250 insertions. The housing is nickel-plated copper alloy, while the insulators and contact brackets are made of flame-retardant thermoplastic.