Cable connector and computing device

Abstract

The application provides a cable connector and a computing device, and relates to the technical field of high-speed cable interconnection. The cable connector comprises a connection main body, the connection main body having an input end and an output end, the input end being provided with a differential signal terminal; a signal converter, the signal converter being arranged on the connection main body, a first signal end of the signal converter being connected with the differential signal terminal; a cable tray, the cable tray being arranged on the output end; a single-end signal line, the single-end signal line being accommodated in the cable tray, the single-end signal line having a single-end signal terminal, the single-end signal terminal being electrically connected with a second signal end of the signal converter; and the signal converter being used for realizing conversion between differential signals and single-end signals. The cable connector of the application is beneficial to reducing the size and weight of the cable tray, reducing wiring complexity, improving cabinet space utilization and heat dissipation conditions, and is also beneficial to improving the stability of signal transmission and maintenance convenience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of high-speed cable interconnection, and more particularly to a cable connector and a computing device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, in the cabling systems of high-density server racks in intelligent computing centers and data centers, cable trays are typically used to carry high-speed copper cables, and differential line transmission structures are used in conjunction with connectors to complete rack-level high-speed interconnection.

[0003] However, with the explosive growth in demand for AI computing power, the number of high-speed copper cables and interconnect ports in a single rack is increasing rapidly. Differential cable solutions require more cabling space and bring more weight as the number of copper cables continues to increase, which can squeeze the space related to heat dissipation and power supply in the rack. At the same time, the long and complex signal paths between connectors and cables will introduce larger parasitic parameters, making reflection, crosstalk and stability problems in high-frequency transmission more prominent, making it difficult to balance structural compactness and signal integrity.

[0004] Therefore, how to reduce the size and weight of cable trays in high-density cabinet cabling scenarios while maintaining high-speed signal transmission performance has become an urgent technical problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a cable connector and a computing device that can improve the problem that differential cable solutions in related technologies are difficult to balance in terms of size and weight control and signal integrity.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a cable connector, comprising: a connecting body having an input end and an output end, the input end being provided with a differential signal terminal; a signal converter disposed on the connecting body, the signal converter having a first signal terminal connected to the differential signal terminal; a cable tray disposed on the output end; and a single-ended signal line housed in the cable tray, the single-ended signal line having a single-ended signal terminal electrically connected to a second signal terminal of the signal converter; the signal converter being used to convert between differential signals and single-ended signals.

[0007] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a computing device, including: a signal input device having a differential signal port; in the aforementioned computing device, the differential signal terminal is electrically connected to the differential signal port.

[0008] Compared to related technologies that use differential cable structures for signal transmission in cable trays, the cable connectors and computing devices of this application integrate differential inputs and single-ended outputs within the same connection unit. Furthermore, the cable tray compactly houses the single-ended signal lines, thus reducing the number of cables used for signal transmission by half. This reduces the space occupied by traditional differential cables within the cabinet, thereby decreasing the size and weight of the cable tray and freeing up more space for power supply channels and cooling ducts. Simultaneously, the signal converter performs the electrical signal conversion from differential to single-ended signals within the connection unit, resulting in shorter transition paths and more concentrated interfaces in the signal link. This helps reduce parasitic inductance, parasitic capacitance, and reflections and crosstalk caused by impedance abrupt changes, thereby improving the signal integrity and long-term operational stability of high-speed links. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the cable connector and the signal input device in some embodiments of this application;

[0011] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the cable connector and the signal input device in some other embodiments of this application;

[0012] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the cable connector and the signal input device in some other embodiments of this application;

[0013] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a cable connector for some embodiments of this application;

[0014] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the cross-section of the single-ended signal line provided in this application.

[0015] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0016] 100-Cable Connector;

[0017] 1-Connecting body; 11-Differential signal terminal; 12-First signal terminal; 13-Second signal terminal;

[0018] 2-Signal converter;

[0019] 3-Cable tray;

[0020] 4-Single-ended signal line; 41-Single-ended signal terminal; 42-Inner conductor; 43-Insulating dielectric layer; 44-Outer conductor; 45-Outer sheath;

[0021] 5- Connecting conductors;

[0022] 6-Outer shell;

[0023] 7-Shielding layer;

[0024] 200 - Signal input device; 201 - Differential signal port.

[0025] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific embodiments of this application, which will be described in more detail below. These drawings and descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of this application to those skilled in the art through reference to particular embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0027] In the cabling systems of high-density server racks in intelligent computing centers, a large number of high-speed copper cables are typically laid out in cable trays inside the rack, and interconnected with backplanes, boards, or other signal input devices via cable connectors to achieve rack-level high-speed interconnection. In such scenarios, cable density is high, interconnection ports are numerous, and transmission rates are fast. Furthermore, cabling space often overlaps with power supply and heat dissipation channels. Therefore, cable trays not only serve to fix and organize cables but also directly affect the overall rack's internal space utilization, heat dissipation efficiency, and ease of subsequent maintenance. As AI computing power continues to increase, the demand for high-speed interconnection in server racks continues to grow. Traditional differential cabling methods face even stricter space and performance constraints in high-density deployment environments, and existing cabling architectures can no longer simultaneously meet the dual requirements of high-density load capacity and high-reliability transmission.

[0028] In related technologies, cable trays are typically used with differential cable structures and differential connectors to achieve high-speed signal transmission. Signals enter the cable from the input end via the connector and are then transmitted to the target device along the differential pair path. This solution relies on the common-mode rejection capability of differential signals to improve anti-interference performance, ensuring signal integrity in high-speed links to a certain extent. However, with a significant increase in the number of copper cables within a single cabinet, the differential cable structure requires a substantial increase in cable space, leading to a simultaneous increase in the size and weight of the cable tray. This further compresses the busbar flow space and airflow space, further deteriorating power supply and heat dissipation conditions.

[0029] Meanwhile, differential lines and connectors often require long and complex connection paths. Signals are susceptible to parasitic inductance, parasitic capacitance, and impedance abrupt changes along these paths, leading to reflections, crosstalk, and high-frequency resonance. For intelligent computing center racks requiring long-term stable operation, these issues not only reduce the reliability of high-speed links but also increase the difficulty of cabling, maintenance, and fault location. While alternative solutions such as optical interconnects can alleviate some space constraints, they introduce additional conversion components and cost burdens. Furthermore, they are difficult to fully adapt to high-density rack-level scenarios in terms of reliability and deployment complexity. Therefore, how to reduce the size and weight of cable trays and their cable connection structures in high-density rack cabling scenarios while maintaining the stability of high-speed signal transmission has become an urgent technical problem to be solved.

[0030] In view of this, this application proposes a cable connector comprising a connection body having an input end and an output end. The input end is provided with differential signal terminals for electrical connection to a signal input device. A signal converter is disposed within the connection body, with a first signal terminal of the signal converter connected to the differential signal terminals. The output end is provided with a cable tray housing a single-ended signal line, the single-ended signal line having a single-ended signal terminal electrically connected to a second signal terminal of the signal converter. By introducing a signal converter within the connection body and enabling signal connection between the differential signal terminals and the single-ended signal line within the same connection structure, conversion between differential and single-ended signals can be achieved. This provides a more compact cabling connection method for high-density cabinet environments and lays the foundation for subsequent reduction in cable size, optimization of cabinet space utilization, and improvement of transmission stability.

[0031] The cable connector 100 of the first aspect of this application is described below.

[0032] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cable connector 100 includes a connection body 1, a signal converter 2, a cable tray 3, and a single-ended signal line 4.

[0033] The connecting body 1 serves as the supporting frame of the cable connector 100. The connecting body 1 has an input end and an output end, which can be located on adjacent sides of the connecting body 1, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown; or, the input and output terminals can be located on opposite sides of the connection body 1, as shown. Figure 3 As shown. The connection body 1 is used to form an overall signal path from differential signal input to single-ended signal output, and provides a mounting, guiding and electrical connection base for the differential signal terminal 11, the signal converter 2 and the single-ended signal line 4.

[0034] Optionally, the connecting body 1 can be configured as a long strip shell, a block shell, or a split-type shell; for example, it can be made of aluminum alloy, nickel-plated copper alloy, or polymer material, or it can be a metal shell, a composite shell of metal and insulating materials, or a high-strength engineering plastic shell, so as to take into account the requirements of mechanical strength, shielding performance and lightweight.

[0035] Optionally, the length of the connecting body 1 can be different from its width. The length and width can be matched according to the number of terminals and the layout of internal components to meet the compact installation requirements in a high-density cabling environment of the cabinet.

[0036] The input terminal of the main body 1 is provided with a differential signal terminal 11, which is used to connect to the port of the signal input device 200 (such as...). Figure 1 As shown, two adjacent ports s form a set of differential signal ports 201 for transmitting differential signals and receive differential signals into the connection body 1.

[0037] In some cases, the differential signal terminal 11 can be a pin-type terminal, a leaf spring-type terminal, or a solder pad-type terminal. Alternatively, a pair of symmetrically arranged conductive contacts can be used to maintain differential signal balance. For example, the material of the differential signal terminal 11 can be copper alloy, phosphor bronze, beryllium copper, or conductive metal material with gold or tin plating. The spacing and effective length between a pair of differential signal terminals 11 can be set according to the operating frequency band and differential impedance matching requirements to reduce parasitic capacitance, parasitic inductance, and crosstalk.

[0038] The signal converter 2 is located inside the connection body 1. For example, the signal converter 2 is located inside the connection body 1 and between the input end and the output end. Its first signal end 12 is connected to the differential signal terminal 11, and its second signal end 13 is electrically connected to the single-ended signal line 4. The signal converter can perform electromagnetic coupling, amplitude and phase reconstruction and impedance transformation on the input differential signal to realize the conversion between differential signal and single-ended signal.

[0039] For example, the signal converter 2 can be a chip device, an IPD (Integrated Passive Device) passive integrated device, or a miniaturized balun module, or it can be a discrete balun, a microstrip balun, a transformer converter, or an integrated passive device conversion module, etc.

[0040] The cable tray 3 is located at the output end of the connecting body 1. The cable tray 3 can be used to store, guide and limit the single-ended signal line 4 to keep the wiring neat and reduce the external pulling and bending stress of the cable during use.

[0041] For example, the cable tray 3 can be an annular disc, a winding cylinder, a trough-type disc, or a frame-type cable take-up structure, or it can be configured as an integrated structure or a detachable connection structure.

[0042] For example, the cable tray 3 may be made of plastic, metal or composite material.

[0043] Optionally, the cable tray 3 may be provided with a wire harness hole, the diameter of which is larger than the minimum bending radius allowed for the single-ended signal line 4, in order to avoid cable breakage and to accommodate the retraction and extension of the single-ended signal line 4.

[0044] The single-ended signal cable 4 is housed in the cable tray 3. The single-ended signal cable 4 has a single-ended signal terminal 41, which is electrically connected to the second signal terminal 13 of the signal converter 2. The other end can be connected to an external load, board, backplane, or other signal receiving device to achieve high-speed interconnection between the signal input device 200 and the signal receiving device. For example, the single-ended signal cable 4 can be a single-ended coaxial cable, a shielded single-core cable, or a sheathed single-core high-speed cable; it can also be a micro coaxial cable, flexible ribbon cable, or shielded twisted-pair converted to a single-ended transmission line.

[0045] The cable connector 100 of this application, when the system is started and connected to the signal input device 200, the differential signal enters the signal converter 2 through the differential signal terminal 11 of the input end of the connector body 1. The signal converter 2 converts the differential signal into a single-ended signal suitable for single-ended cable transmission, and outputs it to the single-ended signal line 4 through the second signal terminal 13. The single-ended signal line 4 is orderly stored, guided and fixed in the cable tray 3 at the output end before extending to the external target device.

[0046] Compared to the differential line structure used in related technologies for signal transmission in cable tray 3, this application integrates differential input and single-ended output into the same connection body 1, and the cable tray 3 compactly stores the single-ended signal line 4. Therefore, the number of cables used for signal transmission can be reduced by half, thereby reducing the space occupied by traditional differential cables inside the cabinet, thus reducing the size and weight of cable tray 3, and leaving more space for power supply channels and heat dissipation ducts.

[0047] Meanwhile, the signal converter 2 completes the electrical signal conversion from differential signal to single-ended signal inside the connection body 1, making the transition path in the signal link shorter and the interface more concentrated. This helps to reduce parasitic inductance, parasitic capacitance, and reflections and crosstalk caused by impedance changes, thereby improving the signal integrity and long-term operational stability of the high-speed link.

[0048] In some cases, the signal converter 2 is soldered to the differential signal terminal 11. By employing a soldered connection, the first signal terminal 12 of the signal converter 2 can form a stable connection with the differential signal terminal 11, either directly or via a very short transition conductor. This shortens the signal transmission path and, compared to plugging or other mechanical connection methods, reduces the contact resistance variation caused by the contact interface and lowers the parasitic inductance and capacitance at the connection point, resulting in better impedance continuity and transmission stability for high-speed signals at high frequencies.

[0049] In addition, for high-speed copper cable connection scenarios in high-density cabinets, the welding method can minimize the connection interface between the differential signal terminal 11 and the signal converter 2, reduce the reflection sources and crosstalk sources inside the connector, maintain a more stable waveform integrity of the differential signal before entering the signal converter 2, and provide a more consistent conversion basis for the subsequent single-ended signal output to the single-ended signal line 4 via the cable tray 3.

[0050] Optionally, the soldering interface between the signal converter 2 and the differential signal terminal 11 can be located inside the connection body 1 and close to the input end. Optionally, the tail end of the differential signal terminal 11 can be directly attached to the first signal terminal 12 of the signal converter 2 and then soldered, or it can be temporarily positioned first through a metal transition piece, lead piece or solder pad, and then soldered to fix it, so as to adapt to different structural layouts and assembly process requirements.

[0051] Optionally, the signal converter 2 and the differential signal terminal 11 can be welded using laser welding, spot welding, reflow soldering, or ultrasonic welding. Taking laser welding as an example, high-precision local heat input and a small heat-affected zone can be obtained by using laser welding, thereby avoiding thermal damage to other precision components inside the connection body 1. The weld joint formed by the two can be a dotted weld spot, a linear weld seam, or a surface weld area. The solder can be tin-based solder, silver-based solder, or a metal diffusion bonding layer. The welding part between the differential signal terminal 11 and the signal converter 2 can be made of copper, gold-plated copper, nickel-plated copper, or ceramic / metal composite materials to balance conductivity, solderability, and oxidation resistance.

[0052] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some cases, the signal converter 2 can be embedded inside the connection body 1. For example, the signal converter 2 can be housed in the internal cavity, reserved mounting position, or interlayer of the connection body 1, forming an integrated built-in layout with the connection body 1.

[0053] This helps to shorten the internal connection path between the differential signal terminal 11 and the first signal terminal 12 of the signal converter 2, and between the second signal terminal 13 of the signal converter 2 and the single-ended signal line 4, thereby reducing the lead length and intermediate transition nodes, reducing the impact of parasitic inductance, parasitic capacitance and external electromagnetic interference on signal integrity, and also helps to improve the overall compactness and assembly stability of the cable connector 100.

[0054] For example, the connecting body 1 has a positioning structure inside. The positioning structure can be a positioning step, a limiting groove, a guide hole or a support rib, etc. The positioning structure cooperates with the signal converter 2 to achieve the positioning and anti-loosening of the signal converter 2.

[0055] For example, depending on the construction of the signal converter 2, the embedded area inside the connection body 1 can be designed as a rectangular cavity, a cylindrical cavity, or an irregular cavity.

[0056] Understandably, since the converter is located inside the connector body 1, the internal signal path is significantly shortened. There is no longer a need for a long transition harness or independent conversion module outside the connector, thus reducing the number of wiring crossings and externally exposed connection points, and lowering the probability of loosening, oxidation, or interference at the connection points. Furthermore, the signal converter 2 is protected by the connector body 1, facilitating positional stability and ensuring reliable electrical connection and mechanical support even under vibration, shock, or long-term thermal cycling conditions.

[0057] In one possible implementation, the signal converter 2 is integrally formed with the connecting body 1. In other words, the signal converter 2 can form an inseparable or semi-inseparable integral structure with the connecting body 1 during the manufacturing stage. For example, an integrated connecting component with a predetermined function can be formed in one step through co-molding, injection molding, metal insert molding, or lamination processes.

[0058] Thus, by adopting an integrated structure, it is easy to place the signal converter 2 as close as possible to the differential signal terminal 11, thereby reducing the length of internal wires and intermediate connection interfaces, reducing assembly complexity and improving structural stability.

[0059] For example, the chip and peripheral circuit of the signal converter 2 can be soldered onto a small substrate first, and then integrally formed with the connecting body 1 by injection molding encapsulation process; or, the signal converter 2 can adopt a metal shell embedded packaging form, so that its outer periphery is integrally connected with the shell 6 of the connecting body 1; or, for example, the signal converter 2 can also be integrated with the functional area of ​​the connecting body 1 into a single structure by an integral sintering method of ceramic substrate.

[0060] Because the signal converter 2 and the connecting body 1 are integrally molded, the relative positions of the differential signal terminals 11, the converter, and the cable tray 3 are fixed and the connection path is short. Signals do not need to cross additional detachable connectors or intermediate transition parts during transmission, thus reducing contact resistance variations, assembly deviations, and parasitic inductance and capacitance caused by connection gaps. Furthermore, the integrated molding process makes the internal structure less prone to relative displacement under vibration, insertion / removal, or long-term operating conditions, reducing the risk of impedance discontinuities and poor contact caused by mechanical loosening.

[0061] In one possible implementation, the connecting body 1 has a connecting channel inside. Optionally, the connecting channel can be a straight channel, a bent channel, a stepped channel, or a multi-segment series channel; the cross-section of the connecting channel can be circular, rectangular, elliptical, or irregularly shaped. One end of the connecting channel extends to the signal converter 2, and the other end extends to the single-ended signal terminal 41. The cable connector 100 also includes a connecting conductor 5, which passes through the connecting channel. One end of the connecting conductor 5 is electrically connected to the signal converter 2, and the other end is electrically connected to the single-ended signal terminal 41. In this way, the connecting channel can provide a protected transmission path for the signal and plays a role in positioning, limiting, and isolating the connecting conductor 5 from external mechanical interference.

[0062] Optionally, the inner diameter of the connecting channel can be slightly larger than the outer diameter or lateral dimension of the connecting conductor 5 to form a clearance fit that meets assembly tolerances, thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the conductor while ensuring smooth installation.

[0063] Optionally, the connecting conductor 5 can be a metal needle, conductive post, flat conductive sheet, elastic conductive spring, or flexible wire, or it can be a flexible circuit or an integrated conductive insert. The connecting conductor 5 can be made of copper, copper alloy, gold-plated copper, silver-plated copper, or other high-conductivity composite materials, and an anti-oxidation coating can be provided on the outer surface to improve contact reliability and corrosion resistance during long-term operation.

[0064] During signal transmission, the differential signal output by the signal input device 200 first enters the signal converter 2 inside the connection body 1 via the differential signal terminal 11. After the signal converter 2 completes the conversion between the differential signal and the single-ended signal, it outputs the converted single-ended signal to its second signal terminal 13. Subsequently, the single-ended signal is transmitted to the single-ended signal terminal 41 through the connecting conductor 5 passing through the connection channel, and further fed into the single-ended signal line 4 housed in the cable tray 3, thereby realizing a short-path electrical connection inside the connection body 1.

[0065] Since the connecting conductor 5 is covered and guided by the connecting channel, it can be well positioned and supported during installation and operation. External pulling, vibration or squeezing is not easy to directly act on the conductor connection part, which helps to reduce the risk of loose contact, wire harness swing and mechanical wear. At the same time, the connecting channel keeps the conduction path between the signal converter 2 and the single-ended signal terminal 41 compact, which can reduce the internal wiring length and unnecessary bends, thereby reducing the adverse effects of parasitic parameters on high-speed signal transmission.

[0066] In one possible implementation, the signal converter 2 includes a balun device. Specifically, the balun device is a passive device that performs impedance transformation and phase balance conversion between differential and single-ended signals.

[0067] Alternatively, the balun device can be an integrated passive device balun, a transformer balun, a microstrip balun, or a transmission line balun to adapt to application scenarios with different frequency bands, different impedance requirements, and different levels of package integration.

[0068] When the computing device is running, the differential signal from the signal input device 200 is first input to the main body 1 via the differential signal terminal 11 and then enters the balun device located in the signal conversion area. The balun device performs impedance transformation and phase balancing on the differential signal based on its internal electromagnetic coupling relationship, converting it into a single-ended signal that matches the subsequent single-ended signal line 4. The signal is then output to the single-ended signal line 4 stored in the cable tray 3 via the single-ended signal terminal 41 electrically connected to the second signal terminal 13, and then transmitted to the target device along the output direction.

[0069] For example, a balun device may include a metal coupling structure (as described below as a coupling transmission line), a dielectric substrate, and a packaging layer.

[0070] For example, the substrate of the balun device can be made of silicon, glass, ceramic or organic dielectric substrate to achieve miniaturization and structural stability while ensuring high-frequency electrical performance.

[0071] Because balun devices are small, compact, and have stable high-frequency conversion capabilities, they can reduce the additional space and connection layers required by traditional differential cabling, lower the risks of impedance abrupt changes, reflections, and crosstalk in the connection path, and improve the space utilization and maintenance convenience of cable tray 3 in high-density cabinet cabling environments. Based on the above analysis, this solution can achieve stable differential-to-single-ended conversion without significantly increasing the connector size, thus balancing high-frequency signal transmission performance with the compactness requirements of internal cabinet cabling.

[0072] Based on the foregoing embodiments, the balun device may further include at least two coupled transmission lines and a dielectric layer located between the coupled transmission lines.

[0073] Understandably, at least two coupling transmission lines are conductor layers used to form electromagnetic coupling channels inside the balun device. The coupling transmission lines can be made of metal thin films, metal foils, deposited conductors, or electroplated conductors. They achieve balanced-to-unbalanced conversion of differential signals to single-ended signals through the coupling between adjacent conductors, while also taking into account impedance transformation and energy transfer. The dielectric layer is an insulating isolation structure set between the coupling transmission lines to limit the distribution of electric and magnetic fields and adjust the coupling strength, thereby enabling the balun device to obtain stable high-frequency conversion characteristics in a small volume.

[0074] Alternatively, the coupling transmission line may also adopt a helical coupling or zigzag coupling structure to extend the effective coupling path and adapt to the limited installation space inside the connection body 1.

[0075] The dielectric layer can be a single layer or a multilayer composite structure. Its material can be one or more of ceramic dielectric, polymer dielectric, glass dielectric or multilayer composite dielectric, in order to maintain low dielectric loss and stable dielectric constant over a wide frequency band.

[0076] Coupled transmission lines and dielectric layers are typically fabricated into miniature structures with millimeter-level thickness and length. The linewidth, spacing, and dielectric layer thickness of the coupled transmission line can be designed to match the target frequency band. Therefore, in this application, the length of the coupled transmission line is offset from the operating frequency band of the single-ended signal line 4, ensuring that its electrical length does not overlap and resonate with the main operating wavelength of the single-ended signal line 4. This suppresses reflections, crosstalk, and resonance peaks, resulting in a smoother amplitude and phase response and more stable return loss for the converted single-ended signal. It should be understood that the above-described combination of coupled transmission line and dielectric layer is merely illustrative and not limiting; it can be adapted and adjusted according to the internal space of the connection body 1, the cable tray 3 layout path, and high-speed signal specifications.

[0077] During signal transmission, when the differential signal is introduced into the balun device, it first acts between at least two coupled transmission lines located on both sides of the dielectric layer. Under the action of electromagnetic coupling, the signal energy distribution and mode conversion are completed, thereby transforming the differential input signal into a single-ended signal suitable for transmission on the single-ended signal line 4, and outputting it to the single-ended signal line 4 via the single-ended signal terminal 41 connected to the second signal terminal 13.

[0078] Since the length of the coupled transmission line is offset from the operating frequency band of the single-ended signal line 4, the signal will not form significant length resonance or impedance abrupt changes within the target operating frequency band when passing through the balun device. This reduces high-frequency reflections and local crosstalk while maintaining good insertion loss characteristics. Simultaneously, the dielectric layer constrains the coupling strength and electric field distribution, making energy transfer between the coupled transmission lines more controllable and further improving the consistency and repeatability of the differential-to-single-ended conversion. Therefore, the balun device in this application improves the frequency adaptability and stability of high-speed signal links without significantly increasing connector size, thereby reducing the complexity of cabling within the cabinet and improving signal integrity in high-density deployment scenarios.

[0079] Optionally, at least two layers of coupled transmission lines are symmetrically distributed. In other words, two or more layers of coupled transmission lines are arranged in a mirror, equidistant, or isoparametric manner relative to the central reference plane or the central axis, thereby maintaining a balance in the electrical characteristics of each layer of coupled transmission lines. For example, the coupled transmission lines can be configured as a vertically symmetrical structure, with the two layers isolated by a dielectric layer and forming a tightly coupled transmission relationship; or, the coupled transmission lines can also be configured as a horizontally symmetrical structure, with the two conductor layers arranged opposite each other in a plane and achieving lateral coupling through a dielectric layer.

[0080] In this way, the differential signal can be uniformly coupled and propagated in the symmetrical channel after entering the signal converter 2, balancing the signal amplitude and phase difference, reducing the common-mode component caused by asymmetrical wiring, parasitic parameter mismatch and external electromagnetic interference, and improving the amplitude and phase consistency and conversion accuracy when the differential signal is converted to a single-ended signal.

[0081] In other cases, concentric or folded symmetrical arrangements can be used to accommodate different installation spaces and wiring directions within the main body 1.

[0082] Alternatively, the two coupled transmission lines can also employ parallel microstrip lines, striplines, or coplanar waveguide structures with the same thickness, width, and spacing to ensure impedance and coupling coefficient consistency. For example, considering ease of fabrication and assembly, they can be fabricated as perfectly mirrored printed circuit patterns, or approximately symmetrical structures can be achieved while maintaining consistent local parameters. The length, width, thickness, and spacing of the two coupled transmission lines should be as consistent as possible, and their positional deviation relative to the central reference plane should be controlled within a small range to avoid differential-mode to common-mode conversion caused by uneven coupling.

[0083] In addition, without departing from the concept of this application, similar functions can also be achieved by using an approximately symmetrical structure that is not completely symmetrical but electrically compensated, a differential compensation structure, or a multi-segment balanced network.

[0084] During operation, since at least two layers of coupled transmission lines are symmetrically distributed around the central reference plane, differential signals are uniformly coupled in the same or similar propagation paths. Electromagnetic energy is distributed in a consistent manner between each symmetrical layer and mode conversion is completed. Subsequently, single-ended signals are output from the second signal terminal 13 and transmitted to the single-ended signal terminal 41 through the connection channel. Then, the single-ended signal line 4 is stored in the cable tray 3 and extends to the external target device.

[0085] In this process, the symmetrical distribution structure can suppress phase shift and amplitude imbalance, thus effectively reducing common-mode noise, reflection loss and link mismatch in high-frequency operation, making the conversion process from differential signal to single-ended signal more stable and reliable. At the same time, the signal propagation in the symmetrical coupling transmission path is more uniform, which is conducive to maintaining good impedance continuity and frequency band consistency, thereby improving the signal integrity and long-term operational reliability of high-speed copper cable connections in the cabinet, and providing support for reducing connector size, optimizing cable layout and reducing maintenance complexity in high-density cabling scenarios.

[0086] In some cases, the length of the coupled transmission line is less than one-quarter of the resonant wavelength of the single-ended signal line 4. In other words, the effective electrical length of the coupled transmission line is less than one-quarter of the target resonant wavelength, thereby avoiding the formation of a significant quarter-wavelength resonant structure in the operating frequency band. This helps to suppress the establishment of standing waves, reduce local voltage and current peaks, and reduce reflections, resonances, and high-frequency distortion caused by the combined effect of the line's equivalent inductance and capacitance.

[0087] Alternatively, the electrical length can be reduced by shortening the conductor path of the coupled transmission line, shortening the turnaround section, optimizing the bending angle, or reducing detours; the equivalent electrical length can also be controlled by folding layout, loading compensation elements, or multi-segment distributed tuning structure.

[0088] In one possible implementation, the length of the coupling transmission line is 0.5mm-0.6mm, for example, the length of the coupling transmission line is 0.5mm, 0.51mm, 0.53mm, 0.55mm, 0.58mm or 0.6mm. Of course, this application is not limited to this. The length of the coupling transmission line can be finely adjusted according to the target operating frequency band, dielectric constant, conductor thickness and interlayer distance, and needs to be flexibly selected within the above range.

[0089] It should be noted that 0.5mm-0.6mm is within the miniaturized length range, which is significantly shorter than the wavelength of a single-ended signal line 4 in the target frequency band. Therefore, coupling transmission and impedance transition can be completed within a shorter physical path, and the probability of high-frequency reflection is reduced.

[0090] Thus, since the effective length of the coupled transmission line is limited to the range of 0.5 mm to 0.6 mm, its electrical length can form a more controllable phase response within the target frequency band, making the operating frequency band offset from the resonant frequency band of the single-ended signal line 4. This avoids the coupling structure and the external transmission path from superimposing at the same frequency point to form obvious resonance. At the same time, it also helps to reduce impedance abrupt changes and high-frequency reflections caused by length deviations. This allows the internal coupling structure of the balun device to maintain good frequency response and impedance matching under miniaturization conditions, thereby improving signal integrity during differential to single-ended conversion and reducing the impact of crosstalk, reflection and resonance on long-term stable operation.

[0091] In some cases, refer to Figure 2 The cable connector 100 may further include a housing 6 and a shielding layer 7. The housing 6 at least partially covers the connector body 1, and covers at least one or more outer surfaces of the connector body 1. The housing 6 provides mechanical protection to the connector body 1 and provides a continuous electromagnetic shielding boundary for the internal signal path, thereby reducing the impact of external shocks, compression, friction, and electromagnetic interference on the stable operation of the connector. Simultaneously, as a metal layer, the housing 6 also serves as a carrier for shielding grounding, forming a conductive path with the external grounding system.

[0092] For example, the outer shell 6 can be implemented in the form of an integral metal shell, a metal-plated shell, or a partial metal frame. Alternatively, its material can be aluminum alloy, steel, stainless steel, copper alloy, or a composite material with a metal coating on the surface. Its structural form can be box-shaped, cylindrical, cover-type, or frame-type to meet the assembly requirements of the connecting body 1, cable tray 3, and internal connection channel.

[0093] The size of the outer shell 6 can be slightly larger than the outer contour of the connecting body 1, so as to form a continuous covering relationship while ensuring the assembly gap, and to reserve space for the internal arrangement of the shielding layer 7 and the connecting conductor 5.

[0094] The wall thickness of the outer shell 6 can be set from 0.2mm to 2mm according to strength and shielding requirements. The specific thickness can be adjusted according to the material strength, processing method and the cabling space of the entire cabinet.

[0095] The shielding layer 7 encloses the signal converter 2. The shielding layer 7 can locally isolate the electromagnetic field around the signal converter 2, reduce the radiation leakage generated during differential signal conversion and the impact of external crosstalk on the operation of the converter, and further suppress reflection and resonance under high-frequency conditions.

[0096] The shielding layer 7 is disposed inside the connecting body 1 or in a position that matches the internal cavity of the connecting body 1. The shielding layer 7 can be arranged as close as possible to the signal converter 2 and is electrically connected to the housing 6 through conductive contacts, welding, crimping or elastic contacts to form a continuous shielding path from the signal converter 2 to the housing 6 and then to the system ground.

[0097] For example, the shielding layer 7 can be made of a metal shell, metal foil, conductive coating, conductive adhesive layer or woven mesh layer. In some cases, the shielding layer 7 can form a 360° closed enclosure structure, or a partial semi-enclosed shielding cover can be used depending on the assembly space. Its material can be tin-plated copper foil, nickel-plated metal sheet, stainless steel sheet, aluminum foil or conductive composite material.

[0098] The shape of the shielding layer 7 can match the shape of the signal converter 2, and can be box-shaped, cylindrical, ring-shaped or cover-shaped, in order to minimize the internal gap of the shielding cavity and reduce the electromagnetic leakage path. Its thickness can be 0.03mm to 1.0mm, or a thicker shielding layer 7 can be used according to the processing and shielding requirements. Its coverage area can cover the signal converter 2 and its adjacent lead area to ensure that the key high-frequency nodes of the signal converter 2 are in a controlled shielding environment.

[0099] The shielding layer 7 is electrically connected to the outer shell 6. During signal transmission, the outer shell 6 establishes an electrical connection with the grounding system inside the cabinet, thereby forming a continuous low-impedance shielding boundary around the connector. At the same time, the shielding layer 7, which wraps around the signal converter 2, encloses the signal converter 2 and its nearby high-frequency nodes in a relatively closed electromagnetic environment, and forms an overall shielding path with the outer shell 6 through electrical connection.

[0100] Thus, because the shielding layer 7 shields the electromagnetic field around the converter, high-frequency radiation, parasitic coupling, and external crosstalk generated during signal conversion can be effectively suppressed. Meanwhile, the outer shell 6 provides external mechanical protection for the connecting body 1 and further blocks external electromagnetic interference from entering the internal sensitive areas. Therefore, in scenarios with high-density cabling, small spacing between adjacent cables, and strong electromagnetic background inside the cabinet, this structure can reduce the probability of signal reflection, crosstalk, and radiation leakage, improve the stability of the conversion link, and enhance the structural reliability of the connector under repeated insertion / removal, vibration, or collision conditions, making it more suitable for the high-density, high-speed interconnection application requirements inside intelligent computing center cabinets.

[0101] It should be understood that the above examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not limiting. Without departing from the concept of this application, the specific materials, shapes, connection methods and size parameters of the outer shell 6 and the shielding layer 7 can be adjusted according to the actual application.

[0102] In some cases, there are multiple signal converters 2 spaced apart, and multiple shielding layers 7 corresponding to the signal converters 2. For example, the multiple signal converters 2 can be arranged in an array, in layers, or in sections along the length of the connecting body 1, with a predetermined spacing between adjacent signal converters 2, so as to achieve independent processing of multiple signals while meeting the requirements for assembly space, heat dissipation space, and electromagnetic isolation. The spacing between each signal converter 2 can be set according to the operating frequency band, the number of channels, and crosstalk suppression indicators.

[0103] Each shielding layer 7 encloses the corresponding signal converter 2 and can be electrically connected to the metal shell 6 of the main body 1 to form a continuous grounding reference surface.

[0104] Furthermore, by employing multiple spaced signal converters 2 in conjunction with multiple corresponding shielding layers 7, the connector can perform parallel conversion for different input channels. The signal paths of each channel are independent of each other, thus reducing the probability of inter-channel interference under high-speed operating conditions. With each shielding layer 7 corresponding to a specific signal converter 2, each conversion unit can be confined to an independent electromagnetic environment, preventing the local high-frequency field strength from spreading to adjacent modules, reducing the risk of parasitic coupling and reflection, and mitigating the adverse effects of a single large-volume shielding structure on overall size, weight, and heat dissipation channels. This improves the stability and maintainability of the cable connector 100 in high-density, high-speed interconnect environments, making it particularly suitable for rack scenarios with densely deployed multi-channel high-speed interconnects.

[0105] In some possible scenarios, the single-ended signal line 4 is a single-ended coaxial cable. Specifically, a single-ended coaxial cable may include an inner conductor 42, an insulating dielectric layer 43, and an outer conductor 44 arranged coaxially. By using a single-ended coaxial cable, stable transmission of single-ended high-frequency signals can be achieved with a relatively small outer diameter, and the natural shielding channel formed by the coaxial structure can be used to suppress external electromagnetic interference and crosstalk between adjacent cables.

[0106] Because the cable adopts a structure in which the center conductor and the outer conductor 44 are coaxially coupled, the center conductor is used to carry the signal current, and the outer conductor 44 is used to provide the return path and form the shielding layer 7, so that the signal propagation environment is relatively stable. It is especially suitable for scenarios where the cabling space inside the cabinet is limited, the cable density is high, and the high-speed signal has high requirements for impedance consistency and anti-interference ability.

[0107] Further, refer to Figure 5The single-ended signal line 4 includes an inner conductor 42, an insulating dielectric layer 43, an outer conductor 44, and an outer sheath 45 arranged from the inside out. The inner conductor 42 can have a circular, flat, or other shape, and can be made of copper or silver-plated conductor. The inner conductor 42 provides a continuous, low-loss transmission path for the signal, enabling the single-ended signal from the second signal terminal 13 of the signal converter 2 to propagate stably along the cable axis. The inner conductor 42 can be electrically connected to the single-ended signal terminal 41 to ensure that the signal enters the cable transmission path after being output from the converter. The inner conductor 42 can be a solid copper core, a stranded copper core, or a surface-plated conductor. For example, it can also be made of silver-plated copper, copper alloy, or other low-resistance metal materials to meet different bending and conductivity requirements. Its cross-section is typically circular, but can also be designed as elliptical, flat, or other structures depending on the assembly space.

[0108] An insulating dielectric layer 43 covers the outer periphery of the inner conductor 42 to electrically isolate the inner conductor 42 from the outer conductor 44. It also achieves stable matching of characteristic impedance by controlling the electric field distribution, thereby reducing distributed capacitance, suppressing high-frequency reflections, and improving signal integrity. The insulating dielectric layer 43 can be made of a low dielectric constant material, such as PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), modified PTFE, polyolefin, or a low dielectric constant foaming material.

[0109] The outer conductor 44 is disposed outside the insulating dielectric layer 43, which can form a signal return path and shield external electromagnetic interference, thereby reducing the coupling effect of external noise on single-ended signals and reducing the electromagnetic radiation of the cable to the external space. The outer conductor 44 can be a metal braided mesh, a metal foil layer, a braided aluminum foil composite layer, or a plated metal tube. In some embodiments, it can also be electrically connected to the outer shell 6, the shielding layer 7, or the grounding structure to further improve the shielding continuity.

[0110] The outer sheath 45 is located on the outermost layer and is used to provide mechanical protection, abrasion protection and environmental protection for the internal conductor structure, to prevent insulation wear or shielding loosening under cabinet wiring, bending, dragging or long-term vibration conditions; the outer sheath 45 can be made of PVC (Polyvinyl chloride), TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer), low smoke halogen-free material, high temperature resistant elastomer or flame retardant polymer material.

[0111] The outer diameter of the single-ended signal line 4, the diameter of the inner conductor 42, and the thickness of the insulating dielectric layer 43 can be matched according to the target characteristic impedance. For example, its characteristic impedance can be set to 50Ω, 75Ω, or other impedance values ​​suitable for high-speed single-ended links. The cable length, bending radius, and storage coil diameter can be coordinated according to the wiring margin inside the cabinet, installation path, and heat dissipation space to ensure that its impedance continuity and transmission loss are not significantly changed when it is wound or unwound.

[0112] In addition, single-ended coaxial cables can be replaced with micro coaxial cables, shielded single-core cables, RF coaxial patch cords, or other single-ended high-speed cables to balance structural compactness, shielding performance, and high-speed transmission stability. It should be understood that the above examples are for demonstration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the application.

[0113] Optionally, the dielectric constant of the insulating dielectric layer 43 is less than 2.2. That is, the insulating dielectric layer 43 uses a low dielectric loss material to reduce the capacitive coupling effect during propagation and improve stability under high frequency operation; in some embodiments, the insulating dielectric layer 43 can be made of polytetrafluoroethylene, foamed polymer, modified low loss polymer material or composite material thereof, or it can be implemented using a microporous foam structure, a solid extrusion structure or a multilayer composite coating structure.

[0114] The computing device according to a second aspect embodiment of this application is described below.

[0115] The computing device of this application embodiment may include: a signal input device 200 and a cable connector 100 as described in the above embodiment. The signal input device 200 may be a circuit board or other device, and has a differential signal port 201. The differential signal terminal 11 of the cable connector 100 is electrically connected to the differential signal port 201.

[0116] In this embodiment of the computing device, the signal input device 200 is directly electrically connected to the differential signal terminal 11 in the cable connector 100 via its differential signal port 201, enabling the cable connector 100 to achieve stable differential signal access on the device side. Since the cable connector 100 adopts the aforementioned integrated signal converter 2 and single-ended signal line 4 structure, differential signal and single-ended signal conversion can be achieved near the signal input device 200, allowing for a more compact single-ended transmission path in subsequent cabling. This reduces the space occupied by high-speed cables inside the cabinet and the complexity of cabling, thus improving the space utilization of the cable tray 3 area and reducing the encroachment on air ducts and power supply channels. Simultaneously, it shortens the complex path of signal transition through the connector, thereby improving impedance continuity and transmission stability.

[0117] It should be noted that the embodiments referred to in the specification, such as "one embodiment," "embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," and "some embodiments," may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but not every embodiment necessarily includes that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, implementing such a feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not, is within the knowledge scope of those skilled in the art.

[0118] Generally speaking, terms should be understood at least in part by their use in context. For example, at least in part by context, the term "one or more" as used in the text can be used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic of the singular meaning, or a combination of features, structures, or characteristics of the plural meaning. Similarly, at least in part by context, terms such as "a" or "the" can also be understood to convey either singular or plural usage.

[0119] It should be readily understood that the terms “on,” “above,” and “on top of” in this disclosure should be interpreted in the broadest possible sense, such that “on” means not only “directly on something” but also “on something” with an intermediate feature or layer therebetween, and that “above” or “on top of” means not only “on top of something” but also “on top of something” without an intermediate feature or layer therebetween (i.e., directly on something).

[0120] Furthermore, for ease of explanation, spatially relative terms such as "below," "below," "under," "above," and "above" may be used to describe the relationship of one element or feature relative to other elements or features as shown in the figures. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation other than those shown in the figures. The device may have other orientations (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptive terms used herein may be interpreted accordingly.

[0121] Finally, it should be noted that other embodiments of the invention will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This invention is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention that follow the general principles of the invention and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein, and is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cable connector, comprising: A connection body having an input end and an output end, wherein the input end is provided with a differential signal terminal; A signal converter is disposed on the connection body, and the first signal terminal of the signal converter is connected to the differential signal terminal; A cable tray, wherein the cable tray is disposed at the output end; A single-ended signal line is housed in the cable tray and has a single-ended signal terminal that is electrically connected to the second signal terminal of the signal converter. The signal converter is used to convert between differential signals and single-ended signals.

2. The cable connector according to claim 1, wherein the signal converter is soldered to the differential signal terminal.

3. The cable connector according to claim 1, wherein the signal converter is embedded inside the connection body.

4. The cable connector according to claim 3, wherein the signal converter is integrally formed with the connection body.

5. The cable connector according to claim 1, wherein the connecting body has a connecting channel inside, one end of the connecting channel extends to the signal converter, and the other end extends to the single-ended signal terminal; The cable connector also includes: A connecting conductor is provided, which passes through the connecting channel. One end of the connecting conductor is electrically connected to the signal converter, and the other end is electrically connected to the single-ended signal terminal.

6. The cable connector of claim 1, wherein the signal converter comprises a balun device.

7. The cable connector of claim 6, wherein the balun device comprises at least two layers of coupled transmission lines and a dielectric layer located between the coupled transmission lines; in, The length of the coupled transmission line is offset from the operating frequency band of the single-ended signal line.

8. The cable connector according to claim 7, wherein at least two layers of the coupling transmission lines are symmetrically distributed.

9. The cable connector according to claim 7, wherein the length of the coupling transmission line is less than one-quarter of the resonant wavelength of the single-ended signal line.

10. The cable connector according to claim 7, wherein the length of the coupling transmission line is 0.5mm-0.6mm.

11. The cable connector according to claim 1, further comprising: An outer casing, which at least partially covers the connecting body, wherein the outer casing is a metal layer; A shielding layer that encloses the signal converter and is electrically connected to the housing.

12. The cable connector according to claim 11, wherein the signal converters are a plurality of spaced-apart components, and the shielding layer is a plurality of components corresponding to the signal converters.

13. The cable connector according to claim 1, wherein the single-ended signal line is a single-ended coaxial cable.

14. The cable connector according to claim 13, wherein the single-ended signal line comprises an inner conductor, an insulating dielectric layer, an outer conductor, and an outer sheath arranged from the inside out; in, The dielectric constant of the insulating dielectric layer is less than 2.

2.

15. A computing device, comprising: A signal input device having a differential signal port; The computing device according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein the differential signal terminal is electrically connected to the differential signal port.

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