Connector assembly for an apparatus for a wireless communications network

Abstract

A first connector part (200, 300) configured to mate with a second connector part (300, 200) to form a connector assembly (400) for an apparatus (110) for a wireless communications network (100), wherein the connector assembly (400) is configured to convey electric power to the apparatus (110) and configured to convey data to and from the apparatus (110). The first connector part (200, 300) comprises a first power assembly (210, 310) configured to convey the electric power from or to a second power assembly (310, 210) of the second connector part (300, 200) via electromagnetic coupling when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200). The first connector part (200, 300) also comprises one or more first optical devices (231, 331) configured to convey the data to or from respective one or more second optical devices (331, 231) of the second connector part (300, 200) when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200), wherein the one or more first optical devices (231, 331) are arranged separated by at least a first distance from the one or more second optical devices (331, 231) when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

Description

[0001] CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY FOR AN APPARATUS FOR A WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of wireless communications. More particularly, it relates to a first connector part configured to mate with a second connector part to form a connector assembly for an apparatus for a wireless communications network, an apparatus for a wireless communications network comprising the first connector part, and a connector assembly comprising the first and the second connector parts.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] A base station typically comprises radio units, baseband units, and antenna arrangements. During transmission, the baseband unit provides digital data to the radio unit, which modulates and converts the digital data into a radio frequency (RF) signal that is provided to the antenna arrangement for transmission into the air. During reception, the antenna arrangement receives an RF signal that is provided to the radio unit, which demodulates and converts the RF signal into digital data that is provided to the baseband unit. The baseband unit conveys the received data and the data for transmission to / from a core network over a backhaul communications system. The radio unit may be separated from the antenna arrangement. In that case, there may be one or more coaxial cable carrying the RF signals between the radio unit and the antenna arrangement. Alternatively, the radio unit and the antenna arrangement may be integrated into a single unit (which may be referred to as an antenna integrated radio). In that case, there is no need for coaxial cables.

[0006] The antenna arrangement may be mounted on a tall structure, such as a communication tower, a pole, or the roof of a building. Thus, the radio unit of an antenna integrated radio is also typically mounted on tall structures. Furthermore, when the radio unit is separated from the antenna arrangement, the radio unit is in most cases also installed on the tall structure. The baseband unit, on the other hand, is typically not arranged together with the radio unit, and may, e.g., be arranged on the ground level in proximity to the tall structure. A radio unit (separated or integrated with the antenna arrangement) is typically supplied with power by electric cables from, e.g., the grid or a generator or similar. The data between the baseband unit and the radio unit is often conveyed by one or more optical fibers. When a radio unit is installed on a tall structure, connecting the data and power cabling may by complex due to the height.

[0007] Furthermore, for fifth generation (5G) wireless communications networks, as well as for future sixth generation (6G) wireless communications networks, network enhancements are enabled by densification, which means that network integrates more elements into a given space, particularly antenna integrated radios. When installing radio units in urban environment, e.g., street macros and small cells, the locations are typically accessible and visible in public areas. Thus, it may be desired to reduce the footprint of the radio unit. For example, it may be desired to hide cabling as much as possible. In addition, it may be desired to remove exposed and removeable components from public access as much as possible. However, this may be difficult to achieve with known cable connection arrangements.

[0008] WO2015175364A1 discloses a trunk cable assembly for a cellular base station, comprising a wireless power unit configured to wirelessly transmit power to a tower-mounted radio of the cellular base station and a wireless transceiver configured to wirelessly transmit data to the tower-mounted radio of the cellular base station.

[0009] However, there is a need for improved means of providing electric power and data to a radio unit of, e.g., a base station. This need is also applicable to any apparatus for a wireless communications network, such as unit for wireless fronthaul or backhaul transport.

[0010] SUMMARY

[0011] It is an object of the present disclosure to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above-identified deficiencies and disadvantages in the prior art and solve at least the above-mentioned problem. In particular, an object is to provide improved means of providing electric power and data to an apparatus for a wireless communications network. This object is attained at least in part by a first connector part configured to mate with a second connector part to form a connector assembly for an apparatus for a wireless communications network, where the connector assembly is configured to convey electric power to the apparatus and configured to convey data to and from the apparatus. The first connector part comprises a first power assembly configured to convey the electric power from or to a second power assembly of the second connector part via electromagnetic coupling when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. The first connector part also comprises one or more first optical devices configured to convey the data to or from respective one or more second optical devices of the second connector part when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part, wherein the one or more first optical devices are arranged separated by at least a first distance from the one or more second optical devices when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part.

[0012] Other solutions, with a wireless transceiver at the termination of a cable assembly for transferring data to the apparatus, may cause electromagnetic interference due to wireless transmission into an open-air environment. Furthermore, such solutions may be limited in the data rates the wireless transceiver can achieve. The disclosed first connector part, on the other hand, cause no - or at least much less - electromagnetic interference and is capable at providing higher data rates.

[0013] Other solutions, where both optical fibers and electric cables require respective physical contact connections during installment of the apparatus, may be prone to errors when the apparatus is installed at a height. The disclosed first connector part, in contrast, enables a simplified installation process of the apparatus.

[0014] Furthermore, the first power assembly of the disclosed first connector part advantageously does not require exposure of a galvanic connection to a power source for the electric power, which may be the case for conventional electric cable connection arrangements. Thus, the disclosed first connector part enables a safe installation process of the apparatus.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the first connector part is configured to be attached to or be a part of the apparatus. In that case, the second connector part may be configured to be attached to a mounting structure. Alternatively, the first connector part may be configured to be attached to a mounting structure. In that case, the second connector part may be configured to be attached to or be a part of the apparatus.

[0016] In an example, the first connector part is pre-attached to or integrated with a radio unit, and the second connector part is pre-attached to a mounting structure. In this case, the installation process, with respect to data and power connection, of the radio unit to the mounting structure is simplified, which is an advantage, particularly during installation at a height. Furthermore, during such an installation process, cable bending can be avoided, which reduces the risk of connector damage during installation at a height.

[0017] As mentioned, the one or more first optical devices are arranged separated by at least a first distance from the one or more second optical devices when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. The first distance may be relatively small for some implementations of the optical devices and may be larger for other implementations of the optical devices. In some examples, the first distance is 10 m. In other examples, the first distance is 0.7 mm. With larger first distance, the risk of physical contact between the optical devices during installation is lowered. According to some embodiments, the first distance is less than 1 mm.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the first power assembly is configured to convey the electric power to or from the second power assembly of the second connector part via inductive coupling when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. The inductive coupling provides an energy efficient way of transferring electric energy between the connector parts of the connector assembly. Furthermore, the first power assembly may comprise a first winding configured to convey the electric power to or from a second winding of the second power assembly via electromagnetic coupling when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. Additionally, according to some embodiments, the first connector part comprises a first transformer core part configured to mate with a second transformer core part of the second connector part to form a transformer core when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. In that case, the first winding is wound around the first transformer core part and the second winding is wound around the second transformer core part. In particular, the first winding may be galvanically isolated from the second winding when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. In this way, a transformer, comprising the transformer core (of the first and the second transformer core parts) and the respective windings, is formed when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. Such an arrangement enables an energy efficient way of transferring electric energy between the connector parts of the connector assembly.

[0019] When the first connector part is mated with the second connector part, there may be a gap between the first and the second transformer core parts. Alternatively, the first transformer core part is arranged in mechanical contact with the second transformer core part when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. In any case, when the connector assembly is not in an assembled state (i.e., when the first connector part is not mated with the second connector part) there is no need to have the first or second windings exposed, which improves electrical safety during assembly of the connector assembly.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the one or more first optical devices comprise respective expanded beam connector parts. The expanded beam connector parts may particularly be suited for achieving the data rates required by the apparatus across the first distance.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the one or more first optical devices are arranged on a first substrate that is arranged at least partly enclosed by the first transformer core part. In this way, the risk of physical contact between the optical devices of the respective connector parts during installation is lowered. Additionally, the first substrate may be mechanically attached to the first transformer core part.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the first substrate comprises alignment means configured to mate with corresponding alignment means of a second substate of the second connector part when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. In this way, the optical devices of the first connector part are aligned with the optical devices of the second connector part when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. Furthermore, the substrate may be attached to the first transformer core part via at least one resilient member. This allows the first substrate to have a finer alignment with respect to the second substrate compared to the alignment of the remainder of the connector parts. In other words, the first substrate may have a good alignment with respect to the second substate even if the remainder of the first connector part is not perfectly aligned with the second connected part.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the first connector part comprises a first enclosure, where the first power assembly and the one or more first optical devices are at least partly enclosed by the first enclosure. In particular, the first enclosure may be configured to shield against electromagnetic fields when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. In this way, electromagnetic interference from the connector assembly to the surroundings (and vice versa) is reduced. Additionally, or alternatively, the first enclosure may be configured such that an inside of the first enclosure is protected against water and / or dust when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part and / or before the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. In this way, damage or deterioration of the connector parts is avoided (or at least less likely) when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part and / or before the first connector part is mated with the second connector part.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the first enclosure comprises alignment means configured to mate with corresponding alignment means of the second connector part when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. Additionally, or alternatively, the first power assembly may comprise alignment means configured to mate with corresponding alignment means of the second power assembly when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. In particular, the alignment means of the first power assembly may be part of the transformer core when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. According to some embodiments, the alignment means of the first power assembly is configured to provide less play than the alignment means of the first enclosure when the first connector part mates with the second connector part. In this way, a fine alignment of the first power assembly with respect to the second power assembly is easy to obtain, which is advantageous.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the one or more first optical devices are configured to convey the data to the respective one or more second optical devices using free space optical communication when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part.

[0026] According to some embodiments, each first optical device of the one or more first optical devices is configured to carry at least 1 gigabit of data per second.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the one or more first optical devices are configured to carry backhaul data or fronthaul data of the wireless communications network.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the first connector part comprises at least one optical fiber connected to the one or more first optical devices. Additionally, or alternatively, the first connector part comprises an electric cable galvanically connected to the first winding. If the first connector part is configured to be attached to a mounting structure, an end of an optical fiber (that is not terminated in the first connector part) and an end of the electric cable (that is not terminated in the first connector part) may be connected to respective terminations at ground level. Thus, a simplified installation process is provided.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the first connector part comprises a rectifier configured to receive an alternating current (ac) from the first power assembly and to convert the received ac to direct current (de). In this way, the first connector part may provide de to internal electronic components of a radio unit if, e.g., the first connector part is part of or attach to the radio unit. In an example, the first connector part is attached to a radio unit and the second connector part is attached to a mounting structure. In this example, ac may be provided to the second connector assembly from the grid and up along the mounting structure, which is thereafter electromagnetically coupled to the first connector part, which is subsequently converted to de for electronic components of the radio unit. This example enables high energy efficiency since only one converter stage is required and since de does not have to be transferred over large distances. In some alternative solutions, ac from the grid is converted to de a ground level, which is transferred up along the mounting structure, and is thereafter transferred to the radio unit via a galvanic connection. In these alternative solutions, the voltage level of the power transported along the mounting structure normally cannot be the low voltage required by the radio unit (e.g., 12 V) since that would not be energy efficient. Instead, a higher voltage of the de transported along the mounting structure is used (e.g., 48 V), which is subsequently converted to a lower de voltage at the radio unit using a dc-dc converter. Using both an ac-dc converter and a dc-dc converter, however, also reduces energy efficiency compared to the solution enabled by the disclosed connector assembly with the rectifier when the second power assembly is fed with ac from the grid. According to some embodiments, the first connector part comprises an inverter configured to receive a direct current (de), convert the received direct current to alternating current (ac), and provide the ac to the first power assembly. In this way, the de may be provided to the first connector part (from, e.g., an ac-dc converter at ground level) if, e.g., the first connector part is attached to a mounting structure. In this way, the first connector part can be attached to existing infrastructure that already comprises an ac-dc converter at ground level and cabling along the mounting structure.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the connector assembly is a first connector assembly, and the first connector part is configured to pass through an optical signal for a second connector assembly. In this way, multiple connector assemblies can be daisy chained on a single mounting structure with a single optical cable assembly.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the first connector part comprises fastening means configured to fasten the first connector part to the second connector part when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part.

[0032] There is also disclosed herein an apparatus for a wireless communications network comprising the first connector part according to the discussions above. This apparatus is associated with the above discussed advantages.

[0033] There is also disclosed herein a connector assembly comprising the second connector part and the first connector part according to the discussions above. This connector assembly is associated with the above discussed advantages.

[0034] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] With reference to the appended drawings, below follows a more detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure cited as examples. In the drawings:

[0036] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a wireless communications network;

[0037] Figure 2A shows a connector part for attachment to a radio unit;

[0038] Figure 2B shows the connector part of Figure 2A when attached to the radio unit;

[0039] Figure 2C shows an enclosure of the connector part of Figures 2A-2B;

[0040] Figure 2D shows a power assembly of the connector part of Figures 2A-2B;

[0041] Figure 2E shows an optical assembly of the connector part of Figures 2A-2B;

[0042] Figure 2F shows the optical assembly of Figure 2E when attached to the power assembly of Figure 2D;

[0043] Figure 3A shows a connector part for attachment to a mounting structure;

[0044] Figure 3B shows the connector part of Figure 3A with a mounting arrangement for attachment to the mounting structure; Figure 3C shows an enclosure of the connector part of Figures 3A-3B;

[0045] Figure 3D shows a power assembly of the connector part of Figures 3A-3B;

[0046] Figure 3E shows an optical assembly of the connector part of Figures 3A-3B;

[0047] Figure 3F shows the optical assembly of Figure 3E when attached to the power assembly of Figure 3D;

[0048] Figure 4A shows a connector assembly, in an unassembled state, comprising a connector part attached to a mounting structure and another connector part attached to a radio unit; and

[0049] Figure 4B shows a different view of the connector assembly of Figure 4A where the radio unit has been omitted.

[0050] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] The present disclosure is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which certain aspects of the present disclosure are shown. The present disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments and aspects set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. The same features are denoted by the same reference signs throughout the description.

[0052] It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein and illustrated in the drawings; rather, the skilled person will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the appended claims.

[0053] Figure 1 depicts a wireless communications network 100 in which embodiments herein may operate. In some embodiments, the wireless communications network 100 may be a radio communications network, such as, sixth generation (6G), New Radio (NR), or NR+ telecommunications network. However, the wireless communications network 100 may also employ technology of any one of third / fourth / fifth generation, Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), or any other similar network or system. The wireless communications network 100 may also employ technology transmitting on millimeter-waves (mmW), such as, e.g., an ultra-dense network (UDN). In some embodiments, the wireless communications network 100 may also employ transmissions supporting WiFi transmissions, e.g., the wireless communications standard IEEE 802.11 ad or similar, or other non-cellular wireless transmissions.

[0054] The wireless communications network 100 comprises a network node 110'. The network node 110' may serve wireless devices in at least one cell 115, or coverage area. The network node 110' may correspond to any type of network node or radio network node capable of communicating with a wireless device and / or with another network node, such as, a base station (BS), a radio base station, gNB, eNB, eNodeB, a Home NodeB, a Home eNodeB, a femto BS, or a pico BS in the wireless communications network 100. Further examples of the network node 110' may comprise a repeater, multi-standard radio (MSR) radio node such as MSR BS, network controller, radio network controller (RNC), base station controller (BSC), relay, donor node controlling relay, base transceiver station (BTS), access point (AP), transmission points, transmission nodes, a remote radio unit (RRU), a remote radio head (RRH), nodes in distributed antenna system (DAS), or core network node. The network node 110' may be arranged to communicate with a remote data processing unit 140, e.g., via a core network 150 of the wireless communications network 100. The remote data processing unit 140 may, for example, be a remote standalone server, a cloud-implemented server, a distributed server, dedicated data processing resources in a server farm, or similar.

[0055] As is also shown in Figure 1 , a wireless device 121 is located within the cell 115. The wireless device 121 is configured to communicate within the wireless communications network 100 via the network node 110' over a radio link served by the network node 110'. The wireless device 121 may transmit data over an air or radio interface to the network node 110' in uplink (UL), transmissions 132 and the radio base station may transmit data over an air or radio interface to the wireless device 121 in downlink (DL) transmissions 131. The wireless device 121 may refer to any type of wireless devices or user equipment (UE) communicating with a network node and / or with another wireless device in a cellular, mobile or radio communication network or system. Examples of such wireless devices are mobile phones, cellular phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), smart phones, tablets, sensors equipped with a UE, laptop mounted equipment (LME) (e.g. universal serial bus, USB), laptop embedded equipment (LEE), machine type communication (MTC) devices, or machine to machine (M2M) device, customer premises equipment (CPE), target device, device-to-device (D2D) wireless device, wireless device capable of machine to machine (M2M) communication.

[0056] As part of the developing of the embodiments described herein, it has been realized there is a need for improved means of providing electric power and data to apparatuses for a wireless communications network. Thus, there is disclosed herein a first connector part configured to mate with a second connector part to form a connector assembly for an apparatus for a wireless communications network 100. The connector assembly is configured to convey electric power to the apparatus and configured to convey data to and from the apparatus. There is also disclosed herein an apparatus for a wireless network 100 comprising the first connector part. There is further disclosed herein a connector assembly comprising the first connector part and the second connector part.

[0057] According to some embodiments, the first connector part is configured to be attached to or be a part of the apparatus. In that case, the second connector part may be configured to be attached to a mounting structure. Alternatively, the first connector part may be configured to be attached to a mounting structure. In that case, the second connector part may be configured to be attached to or be a part of the apparatus.

[0058] The apparatus may be or may be part of the network node 110' as discussed above. In particular, the apparatus may be a radio unit, an antenna integrated radio, or a unit for wireless transport. Figures 2A-2F illustrates a connector part 200 (or parts of the connector part 200) configured to mate with a connector part 300. The connector part 300 (or parts of the connector part 300) is illustrated in Figures 3A-3F. Below, the connector part 200 is called a "first connector part” and the connector part 300 is called a "second connector part”. However, this notation could be switched (where the connector part 200 would be called a "second connector part” and the connector part 300 would be called a "first connector part”). Figure 4A shows a connector assembly 400, in an unassembled state, comprising the second connector part 300 attached to a mounting structure 450 and the first connector part 200 attached to an apparatus 110. Figure 4B shows a different view of the connector assembly 400 of Figure 4A where the apparatus 110 has been omitted. In Figures 2B and 4B, the apparatus 110 is a radio unit. As mentioned, the first and the second connector parts 200, 300 as illustrated in Figures 2-4 may be used for other apparatus for wireless communications network as well.

[0059] As is shown in Figures 2B and 4A, the first connector part 200 may be configured to be attached the apparatus 110. In particular, the first connector part 200 may be configured to be attached to an outside of the apparatus 110 by bolts. In the example of the Figures 2B and 4B, the first connector part 200 is attached to a portion of an outside surface of apparatus 110 that is adjacent to cooling fins of the apparatus 110. Other ways of attaching the first connector part 200 to the apparatus are also possible. Alternatively, the first connector part 200 may be part of the apparatus 110, i.e., be an integrated part of the apparatus 110.

[0060] As is shown in Figures 3B and 4B, the second connector part 300 may be configured to be attached to a mounting structure 450. In Figure 4B, the mounting structure 450 is in the form of a pole. In general, however, a mounting structure 450 is a structure designed to support apparatuses for wireless communications network, particularly radio units, and may, e.g., be in the form of a mast, a tower, or a lamp-pole. A mounting structure 450 may, e.g., be guyed or self-supporting structure. The mounting structure 450 may also be called an antennamounting structure or antenna structure. The second connector part 300 may be configured to be attached to other structures as well. Furthermore, in Figure 3B, the second connector part 300 comprises an attachment arrangement 360 in the form of two straps that are configured to enclose a pole. Other attachment arrangements are also possible. For example, the attachment arrangement may comprise a structure for tilting the second connector part 300 (and consequently also the apparatus 110) such as a mechanical arm.

[0061] As can be seen in Figures 2A, 2B, and 2F, the first connector part 200 comprises a first power assembly 210, and as can be seen in Figures 3A, 3B, and 3F, the second connector part 300 comprises a second power assembly 310. The second power assembly 310 is configured to convey electric power to the first power assembly 210 via electromagnetic coupling when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300.

[0062] Furthermore, as can be seen in Figures 2A, 2B, 2E and 2F the first connector part 200 comprises one or more first optical devices 231 , as can be seen in Figures 3A, 3B, 3E and 3F, the second connector part 300 comprises one or more second optical devices 331. The one or more first optical devices 231 are configured to convey the data to or from respective one or more second optical devices when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. The one or more first optical devices 231 are arranged separated by at least a first distance from the one or more second optical devices 331 when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300.

[0063] In the example of Figures 2-4, the first connector part 200 comprises nine first optical devices 231 and the second connector part 300 comprises nine second optical devices. In general, however, the first connector part 200 may comprise any number of first optical devices 231 and the second connector part 300 may comprise any number of second optical devices 331. Preferably, the first and the second connector parts 200, 300 comprise an equal number of optical devices.

[0064] The optical devices of the first connector part 200 are configured to wirelessly transfer data to and from the optical devices of the second connector part 300. In particular, the one or more first optical devices 231 are configured to convey the data to the respective one or more second optical devices 331 using free space optical communication when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. In other words, the communication between the one or more first optical devices 231 and the respective one or more second optical devices 331 is contactless, which means that respective light signals traverse a small gap (occupied by air, for example) between two optical devices. In some embodiments, the optical devices of the first connector part 200 are configured to provide a duplex wireless data connection to the optical devices of the second connector part 300. Each first optical device of the one or more optical devices 231, 331 may, e.g., be configured to carry at least 1 gigabit of data per second. As an example, the one or more optical devices 231, 331 may be configured to carry backhaul data or fronthaul data of the wireless communications network 100.

[0065] As mentioned, the one or more first optical devices 231 are arranged separated by at least a first distance from the one or more second optical devices 331 when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. In other words, the smallest distance between any of the first optical devices 231 to any of the second optical devices 331 is at least the first distance. The first distance may be relatively small for some implementations of the optical devices 231, 331 and may be larger for other implementations of the optical devices 231, 331. In some examples, the first distance is 10 m. In other examples, the first distance is 0.7 mm. With larger first distance, the risk of physical contact between the optical devices during installation is lowered. In other words, a mounting tolerance that avoids risks of damage to the optical devices is provided. According to some embodiments, the first distance is less than 1 mm.

[0066] In the example of Figure 2-4, each optical device 231, 331 comprise a respective expanded beam connector part. However, other ways of implementing the optical devices are also possible. A first expanded beam connector part (e.g., of the first connector part 200) may be in communication with a second expanded beam connector part (e.g., of the second connector part 300). An expanded beam connector part is typically an end-face to an optical fiber. The expanded beam connector part typically comprises one or more lenses that, during a transmission, expand and collimate a received light signal from a connecting fiber into a beam for transmission over the air, and that, during a reception, refocus a received beam light into a connecting fiber. According to some aspects, the expanded beam connector part expands the signal from smaller fiber core size into a much larger diameter. The larger diameter allows easy alignment of optical beams. The expanded beam can, e.g., be more than 100 times larger than the fiber core. An expanded beam connector part may also be called an expanded beam ferrule.

[0067] In an example of an installation process of the apparatus 110 at a site, the second connector part 300 is, in a first step, attached to the mounting structure 450. The second connector part 300 may be provided with pre-attached cabling (for, e.g., connection to an electric power source and to a baseband unit or similar). In this way, the second connector part 300 can be mechanically attached to the mounting structure 450 at a height, and cable connection can be performed at ground level. In a second step of the installation process, the first connector part 200, pre-attached to the apparatus 110, is mated with the second connector part 300. In this installation procedure, the second step can be performed by a person without special training (in, e.g., optical connectors and electrical connectors), which is advantageous when the apparatus is installed at a height. In some embodiments, the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300 using built-in alignment means of the connector parts and is thereafter mechanically secured to the second connector part 300 using bolts. The connector assembly 400 shifts installation complexity (with respect to connecting data and power) to the ground level. This is an advantage since, e.g., the risk of installation error can be reduced and since the installation step at the height can be performed without requiring any specific skill in connecting data and power cabling.

[0068] In the example installation process above, the mounting structure 450 may be a structure that does not allow internal cabling (e.g., a pole made of wood or concrete). In that case, the pre-attached cabling of the second connector part may be arranged externally along the mounting structure 450. Alternatively, the mounting structure 450 may be a structure that allows internal cabling (e.g., a hollow pole such as a lamp post). In that case, the preattached cabling of the second connector part may be arranged internally along the mounting structure 450. Furthermore, the internal cabling could in some cases be part of existing electric cabling of the mounting structure 450, if, e.g., the mounting structure 450 is a lamp pole. For any of the different mounting structures, but particularly for structures allowing internal cabling, the connector assembly 400 disclosed herein provides an orderly arrangement of providing electric power and data to the apparatus 110. This may be advantageous in when installing radio units in urban environment, e.g., street macros and small cells, the locations are typically accessible and visible in public areas. In particular, the connector assembly 400 allows hiding cabling more compared to previous cabling connection arrangements. In addition, the connector assembly 400 allows making removeable components less exposed to public access.

[0069] As mentioned, the second power assembly 310 is configured to convey electric power to the first power assembly 210 via electromagnetic coupling when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. Thus, the connector assembly 400 is configured to convey electric power to the apparatus 110 from, e.g., a power supply at ground level. Due to the electromagnetic coupling, the first and the second connector parts 210, 310 advantageously do not require exposure of a galvanic connection to a power source for the electric power, which is the case for a conventional electric cable connection arrangement for radio units. Thus, the disclosed connector assembly 400 enables a safe installation process of the apparatus. The conveying of power may be bi-directional, i.e., the first power assembly 210 may be configured to convey electric power to the second power assembly 310 via electromagnetic coupling when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. The conveying of electric power (via electromagnetic coupling) may be carried out in a variety of different ways. In some embodiments, the conveying of electric power is a wireless power transmission.

[0070] In the example of Figures 2-4, the second power assembly 310 is configured to convey the electric power to the first power assembly 210 via inductive coupling when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. The inductive coupling provides an energy efficient way of transferring electric energy between the connector parts 210, 310 of the connector assembly 400. As mentioned, other ways of conveying the electric power are also possible.

[0071] In the example of Figures 2-4, the second power assembly 310 comprises a second winding 311 configured to convey the electric power to a first winding 211 of the first power assembly 210 via electromagnetic coupling when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. In particular, the second winding 311 is configured to convey the electric power to the first winding 211 via inductive coupling when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. The first winding 211 may be galvanically isolated from the second winding 311 when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300, which enables improved electrical safety during installation of the connector assembly 400.

[0072] In the example of Figures 2-4, the first connector part 200 comprises a first transformer core part 220 configured to mate with a second transformer core part 320 of the second connector part 300 to form a transformer core when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. The first winding 211 is wound around the first transformer core part 220 and the second winding 311 is wound around the second transformer core part 320. The first winding 211 may also be called a first coil and the second winding 311 may also be called a second coil. In this way, a transformer, comprising a transformer core (of the first and the second transformer core parts 220, 320) and the respective windings 211 , 311 , is formed when the first connector part 220 is mated with the second connector part 330. Such an arrangement enables an energy efficient way of transferring electric energy between the connector parts 200, 300 of the connector assembly 400. Other ways of arranging the second winding 311 to convey the electric power to the first winding 211 via inductive coupling are also possible.

[0073] The transformer is a component that transfers electric energy from the second connector part 300 to the first connector part 200 (or vice versa). The second winding 311 may be provided with an alternating current that produces a varying magnetic flux in the transformer core. The varying magnetic flux in the transformer core induces an alternating electromotive force across the first winding 211 . Thus, electric energy is transferred from the second winding 311 to the first winding 211 without galvanic connection between the first and the second windings 211 , 311. A transformer core may also be called a magnetic core, and comprises a ferromagnetic material, typically of high magnetic permeability, such as iron or ferrimagnetic compounds (e.g., ferrites). The first and the second windings 211, 311 comprise electrically conductive materials, such as copper.

[0074] When the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300, there may be a gap between the first and the second transformer core parts 220, 320. Alternatively, the first transformer core part 220 may be arranged in mechanical contact with the second transformer core part 320 when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. In any case, when the connector assembly 400 is not in an assembled state (i.e., when the first connector part is not mated with the second connector part) there is no need to have the first or the second windings 211, 311 exposed, which improves electrical safety during installation of the connector assembly 400.

[0075] The second connector part 300 may be provided with pre-attached cabling for further connection at ground level. In particular, the second connector part 300 may comprise an electric cable galvanically connected to the second winding 310. Alternatively, or additionally, the second connector part 300 may comprise at least one optical fiber connected to the one or more second optical device 331. In an example, one or more optical fibers are arranged perpendicular to a beam extension direction of the one or more second optical devices 331, where optical signal(s) between the optical fiber(s) and the optical device(s) 331 is(are) conveyed via a mirror(s). Furthermore, the first connector part 200 may be provided with cabling for further connection to internal electric components of the apparatus 110. For example, such further connection may be arranged internally within the apparatus 110, i.e., without passing through any external connection interface. In particular, the first connector part 200 may comprise an electric cable galvanically connected to the first winding 210. Alternatively, or additionally, the first connector part 300 may comprise at least one optical fiber connected to the one or more first optical device 231 . In an example, one or more optical fibers are arranged perpendicular to a beam extension direction of the one or more first optical devices 231 .

[0076] Internal electronic components of the apparatus 110 are typically designed to be powered by a direct current (de) power source. However, many ways of conveying electric power via electromagnetic coupling relies on alternating current (ac). Accordingly, in some embodiments, the second power assembly 310 is configured to receive ac power, which is transferred to the first power assembly 210 via electromagnetic coupling. In that case, the first connector part 200 may comprise a rectifier configured to receive ac from the first power assembly 210 and to convert the received ac to de. A rectifier is an electronic device configured to change ac to de. A rectifier may also be called ac-dc converter or ac / dc converter. These embodiments enable high energy efficiency since only one converter stage (i.e., the rectifier) is required and since de does not have to be transferred over large distances. In some alternative solutions, ac from the grid is converted to de a ground level, which is transferred up along the mounting structure 450, and is thereafter transferred to the apparatus 110 via a galvanic connection. In these alternative solutions, the voltage level of the power transported along the mounting structure 450 normally cannot be the low voltage required by the apparatus 110 (e.g., 12 V) since that would be too energy inefficient. Instead, a higher voltage of the de transported along the mounting structure 450 is used (e.g., 48 V), which is subsequently converted to a lower do voltage at the apparatus using a dc-dc converter. Using both an ac-dc converter and a dc-dc converter, however, also reduces energy efficiency compared to the solution enabled by the disclosed connector assembly 400 with the rectifier when the second power assembly 310 is fed with ac from the grid.

[0077] In some embodiments, the connector assembly 400 is configured to be used on existing mounting structures 450 with existing de power cabling. Thus, in some embodiments, the second connector part 300 comprises an inverter configured to receive de, to convert the received de to ac, and to provide the ac to the second power assembly 310. An inverter is an electronic device configured to change de to ac. An inverter may also be called a power inverter, invertor, dc-ac converter, or dc / ac converter.

[0078] In an example, the second power assembly 310 is provided with 220 V or 110 V ac from the grid, and the second connector part 300 comprises a rectifier configured to convert the 220 V or 110 V ac to 12 V or 48 V de. The connector assembly may be configured to transfer 500 W power, which corresponds to about 10.4 A current at the 48 V de side. In that case, the dimensions of the first and the second windings 210, 310 may be reasonably small and compact, when the first and the second windings 210, 310 are used to convey electric power via electromagnetic coupling.

[0079] In the example of Figures 2-4, the one or more first optical devices 231 are arranged on a first substrate 232 and the one or more second optical devices 331 are arranged on a second substrate 332. The one or more first optical devices 231 and the first substrate 232 together form a first optical assembly 230, which is shown in, e.g. Figures 2E and 2F. The one or more second optical devices 331 and the second substrate 332 together form a second optical assembly 330, which is shown in, e.g. Figures 3E and 3F. Other ways of arranging the optical devices of the first and the second connector parts 200, 300, respectively, are also possible. In particular, in the example of Figures 2-4, the first substrate 232 is arranged at least partly enclosed by the first transformer core part 220 and the second substrate 332 is arranged at least partly enclosed by the second transformer core part 320. In this way, the risk of physical contact between the optical devices during installation is lowered. Other ways of arranging the first and the second substates 232, 322 with respect to the respective transformer core parts 220, 320 are also possible.

[0080] As can be seen in the example of Figures 2-4, the first substrate 232 may be attached to the first transformer core part 220 via at least one resilient member 234. This allows the first substrate 232 to have a finer alignment with respect to the second substrate 332 compared to the alignment of the remainder of the connector parts 200, 300. In other words, the first substrate 232 may have a good alignment with respect to the second substate 332 even if the remainder of the first connector part 200 is not perfectly aligned with the second connected part 300.

[0081] Additionally, the resilient member 234 provides a tolerance against vibrations, i.e., the optical devices may maintain alignment even if the remainder of the connector assembly 400 vibrates. Other ways of attaching the first substate 232 with respect to the first transformer core part 220 are also possible. In in the example of Figures 2-4, the second substrate 332 is be attached to the second transformer core part 320 via a through hole 334 without any resilient member. It is sufficient if one of the first and second substrates 232, 332 is attached to its corresponding transformer core part 220, 320 with a resilient member. Thus, any one of the first and the second substates 232, 332 may be attached to first and the second transformer core parts 220, 320, respectively, via respective resilient members. It is also possible that both the first and the second substates 232, 332 are attached to first and the second transformer core parts 220, 320, respectively, via respective resilient members.

[0082] A resilient members may, e.g., comprise an elastic material such as rubber. A resilient member may alternatively, or additionally, comprise mechanical parts such as springs. In the example of Figures 2-4, the first substate 232 comprises a four through-holes in which a respective resilient member 234 in the form of a rubber gasket is arranged. The first substrate 232 is attached to the first transformer core part 220 by means of a respective screw arranged through each through-hole and respective rubber gasket.

[0083] As can be seen in the example of Figures 2-4, the first substrate 232 may comprise alignment means 233 configured to mate with corresponding alignment means 333 of the second substate 332 when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 200. In this way, the optical devices of the first connector part 200 are aligned with the optical devices of the second connector part 300 when the first connector part is mated with the second connector part. In the example of Figures 2-4, the alignment means 233 of the first substrate 232 are in the form of two protruding pins that are arranged to mate with respective holes on the second substate 332, which form the alignment means 333 of the second substrate 332. Other alignment means are also possible.

[0084] The connector assembly 400 may be a first connector assembly. In that case, the second connector part 300 may be configured to pass through an optical signal for a second connector assembly. For example, the second connector part may comprise an optical filter for wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) that is configured to pass through the optical signal for the second connector assembly. In this way, multiple apparatuses 110 may advantageously be mounted to the same mounting structure with a simple cabling for the data.

[0085] As can be seen in the example of Figures 2-4, the first connector part 200 may comprise a first enclosure 240, and the second connector part 300 may comprise a second enclosure 340. The first power assembly 210 and the one or more first optical devices 231 are at least partly enclosed by the first enclosure 240. Similarly, the second power assembly 310 and the one or more second optical devices 232 are at least partly enclosed by the second enclosure 340. In the example of Figures 2-4, the first and the second enclosures 240, 340 are formed such that the connector assembly 400 is enclosed by the first and the second enclosures when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300.

[0086] The first enclosure 240 may be configured such that an inside of the first enclosure 240 is protected against water and / or dust when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. Similarly, the second enclosure 340 may be configured such that an inside of the second enclosure 340 is protected against water and / or dust when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. For example, the first and the second enclosures 240, 340 may be configured such that an inside of the respective enclosures meet any non-zero rating of an ingress protection rating.

[0087] In some embodiments, the first enclosure 240 is configured such that an inside of the first enclosure 240 is protected against water and / or dust before the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. Similarly, the second enclosure 340 may be configured such that an inside of the second enclosure 340 is protected against water and / or dust before the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. For example, the first enclosure 240 may be shaped such that an inside of the first enclosure 240 is sealed from an outside of the first enclosure 240 by the shape of the first enclosure together with the first transformer core part 220 and the first substate 232. The second enclosure may be shaped in a corresponding way.

[0088] In embodiments where the first and the transformer core parts 220, 320 are not in direct mechanical contact with each other when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300, the first connector part 200 may comprise a cover plate configured to enclose, together with the first enclosure 240, the first transformer core part 220 and the first optical devices 231 . The second connector part may comprise another cover plate arranged in a corresponding way. In that case, the respective cover plates will be sandwiched in the middle of the first and the second connector parts 200, 300 when first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. The respective cover plates are transparent to the optical signal conveyed between the optical devices of the respective connector parts 200, 300. Similarly, the respective cover plates are transparent to magnetic flux conveyed between the transformer core parts 220, 320 of the respective connector parts 200, 300.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first enclosure 240 is configured to shield against electromagnetic fields when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. Similarly, the second enclosure 340 may be configured to shield against electromagnetic fields when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. The electromagnetic shielding may, e.g., be provided by an electrically conductive material comprised in the first and the second enclosures 240, 340. The first and the second enclosures 240, 340 may be configured to form a Faraday cage. The first and the second enclosures 240, 340 may be configured to reduce the risk of electrical hazards, such as electrocution, arc flash, and electric shock.

[0090] As can be seen in the example of Figures 2-4, the first enclosure 240 may comprise alignment means 241 configured to mate with corresponding alignment means 341 of the second connector part 300 when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. In the example of Figure 2-4, the alignment means 341 of the second enclosure 340 are in the form of two protruding pins that are arranged to mate with respective holes on the first enclosure 240, which form the alignment means 241 of the first enclosure 240. Other alignment means are also possible. The alignment means of the first and the second enclosures 240, 340 are configured to align the first power assembly 210 with the second power assembly 310, and to align the one or more first optical devices 231 with respective one or more second optical devices 331 when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. As can be seen in the example of Figures 2-4, the first power assembly 210 comprises alignment means 221, 222 configured to mate with corresponding alignment means 321, 322 of the second power assembly 310 when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. As is further shown in the example of Figures 2-4, the alignment means 221, 222 of the first power assembly 210 are part of the first transformer core part 220, i.e., is an integral part of the first transformer core part 220. Similarly, the alignment means 321, 322 of the second power assembly 310 are part of the second transformer core part 310, i.e., is an integral part of the second transformer core part 310. In other words, the alignment means 221, 222, 321, 322 are part of the transformer core when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. Alternatively, or additionally, the first and the second power assemblies 210, 310 may comprise alignment means separate from the respective transformer core parts 220, 320.

[0091] As can be seen in the example of Figures 2-4, the alignment means of the first transformer core part 220 comprise two large protrusions 221 that are arranged to mate with respective large depressions 321 on the second transformer core part 320, which are part of the alignment means of the second transformer core part 320. Additionally, the alignment means of the first transformer core part 220 comprises two small protrusions 222 that are arranged to mate with respective small depressions 322 on the second transformer core part 320, which are part of the alignment means of the second transformer core part 320. Other alignment means are also possible. The alignment means of the first and the second power assemblies 210, 310 are configured to align the first power assembly 210 with the second power assembly 310 when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300.

[0092] The alignment means 221, 222, 321, 322 of the first and the second power assemblies 210, 310 may be configured to provide less play than the alignment means 241, 341 of the first and the second enclosures 240, 340 when the first connector part 200, 300 mates with the second connector part 300, 200. In other words, the alignment means 241, 341 of the first and the second enclosures 240, 340 provide a courser alignment, and the alignment means 221, 222, 321, 322 of the first and the second power assemblies 210, 310 provide a finer alignment. In this way, a fine alignment of the first power assembly with respect to the second power assembly is easy to obtain, which is advantageous. In turn, a fine alignment of the optical devices 231, 331 of the respective connector parts 200, 300 is easy to obtain when the optical devices 231, 331 are attached to the corresponding power assemblies 210, 310.

[0093] As can be seen in the example of Figures 2-4, the first connector part 200 may comprise fastening means 242 configured to fasten the first connector part 200 to the second connector part 300 when the first connector part 200 is mated with the second connector part 300. In the example of Figures 2-4, the fastening means 242 of the first connector part 200 comprises a through-hole that is configured to mate with a hollow protrusion of the second connector part 300, which forms part of fastening means 342 of the second connector part. The attachment means 242 and / or 342 may further comprise a screw, bolt, nut, or such to securely fasten the first and the second connector parts together. Other fastening means are also possible. As mentioned, the first connector part 200 may be configured to be attached the apparatus 110. As further mentioned, the first connector part 200 may be provided with cabling for further connection to internal components of the apparatus 110. For example, such further connection may be arranged internally of the apparatus 110, i.e. , without passing through any external connection interface. However, in other embodiments, the first connector part 200 is configured to be attached legacy apparatuses comprising external legacy connection interfaces for electric power and data. In that case, the first connector part 200 may be provided with cabling for further connection to internal components of the apparatus 110 via the external legacy connection interfaces.

[0094] The description of the example embodiments provided herein have been presented for purposes of illustration. The description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit example embodiments to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of various alternatives to the provided embodiments. The examples discussed herein were chosen and described to explain the principles and the nature of various example embodiments and its practical application to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the example embodiments in various manners and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. The features of the embodiments described herein may be combined in all possible combinations of methods, apparatus, modules, systems, computer programs, and computer program products. It should be appreciated that the example embodiments presented herein may be practiced in any combination with each other.

[0095] It should be noted that the word "comprising” does not necessarily exclude the presence of other elements or steps than those listed and the words "a” or "an” preceding an element do not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. It should further be noted that any reference signs do not limit the scope of the claims, that the example embodiments may be implemented at least in part by means of both hardware and software, and that several "means”, "units” or "devices” may be represented by the same item of hardware.

[0096] The embodiments herein are not limited to the above-described preferred embodiments. Various alternatives, modifications and equivalents may be used. Therefore, the above embodiments should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A first connector part (200, 300) configured to mate with a second connector part (300, 200) to form a connector assembly (400) for an apparatus (110) for a wireless communications network (100), wherein the connector assembly (400) is configured to convey electric power to the apparatus (110) and configured to convey data to and from the apparatus (110), wherein the first connector part (200, 300) comprises: a first power assembly (210, 310) configured to convey the electric power from or to a second power assembly (310, 210) of the second connector part (300, 200) via electromagnetic coupling when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200); and one or more first optical devices (231, 331) configured to convey the data to or from respective one or more second optical devices (331, 231) of the second connector part (300, 200) when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200), wherein the one or more first optical devices (231, 331) are arranged separated by at least a first distance from the one or more second optical devices (331, 231) when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

2. The first connector part (200, 300) according to claim 1, wherein the first power assembly (210, 310) is configured to convey the electric power to or from the second power assembly (310, 210) of the second connector part (300, 200) via inductive coupling when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

3. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, wherein the first power assembly (210, 310) comprises a first winding (211, 311) configured to convey the electric power to or from a second winding (311, 211) of the second power assembly (310, 210) via electromagnetic coupling when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

4. The first connector part (200, 300) according to claim 3, comprising a first transformer core part (220, 320) configured to mate with a second transformer core part (320, 220) of the second connector part (300, 200) to form a transformer core when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200), wherein the first winding (211, 311) is wound around the first transformer core part (220, 320).

5. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, wherein the one or more first optical devices (331, 231) comprise respective expanded beam connector parts.

6. The first connector part (200, 300) according to claim 4 or any previous claim when dependent on claim 4, wherein the one or more first optical devices (231, 331) are arranged on a first substrate (232, 332) that is arranged at least partly enclosed by the first transformer core part (220, 320).

7. The first connector part (200, 300) according to claim 6, wherein the first substrate (232, 332) comprises alignment means (233, 333) configured to mate with corresponding alignment means (333, 233) of a second substate (332, 232) of the second connector part (300, 200) when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

8. The first connector part (200) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the substrate (232) is attached to the first transformer core part (220) via at least one resilient member (234).

9. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, comprising a first enclosure (240, 340), wherein the first power assembly (210, 310) and the one or more first optical devices (231, 232) are at least partly enclosed by the first enclosure (240, 340).

10. The first connector part (200, 300) according to claim 9, wherein the first enclosure (240, 340) is configured to shield against electromagnetic fields when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).11 . The first connector part (200, 300) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the first enclosure (240, 340) comprises alignment means (241, 341) configured to mate with corresponding alignment means (341, 241) of the second connector part (300, 200) when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

12. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, wherein the first enclosure (240, 340) is configured such that an inside of the first enclosure (240, 340) is protected against water and / or dust when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200) and / or before the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

13. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, wherein the first power assembly (210, 310) comprises alignment means (221, 222, 321, 322) configured to mate with corresponding alignment means (321, 322, 221, 222) of the second power assembly (310, 210) when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

14. The first connector part (200, 300) according to claim 13 when dependent on claim 4, wherein the alignment means (221, 222, 321, 322) of the first power assembly (210, 310) are part of the transformer core when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

15. The first connector part (200, 300) according to claim 13 or 14 when dependent on claim 11, wherein the alignment means (221, 222, 321, 322) of the first power assembly (210, 310) is configured to provide less play than the alignment means (241, 341) of the first enclosure (240, 340) when the first connector part (200, 300) mates with the second connector part (300, 200).

16. The first connector part (200, 300) according to claim 4 or any previous claim when dependent on claim 4, wherein the first transformer core part (220, 320) is arranged in mechanical contact with the second transformer core part (320, 220) when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

17. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, wherein the one or more first optical devices (231, 331) are configured to convey the data to the respective one or more second optical devices (331,231) using free space optical communication when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

18. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, wherein the first distance is 0.7 mm.

19. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, wherein each first optical device of the one or more first optical devices (231, 331) is configured to carry at least 1 gigabit of data per second.

20. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, wherein the one or more first optical devices (231, 331) are configured to carry backhaul data or fronthaul data of the wireless communications network (100).21 . The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, comprising at least one optical fiber connected to the one or more first optical devices (231, 331).

22. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, comprising an electric cable galvanically connected to the first winding (210, 310).

23. The first connector part (200) according to any previous claim, comprising a rectifier configured to receive an alternating current from the first power assembly (210) and to convert the received alternating current to direct current.

24. The first connector part (300) according to any of claims 1-22, comprising an inverter configured to receive a direct current, convert the received direct current to alternating current, and provide the alternating current to the first power assembly (310).

25. The first connector part (300) according to any previous claim, wherein the connector assembly (400) is a first connector assembly, and wherein the first connector part (300) is configured to pass through an optical signal for a second connector assembly.

26. The first connector part (200, 300) according to any previous claim, comprising fastening means (242, 342) configured to fasten the first connector part (200, 300) to the second connector part (300, 200) when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

27. The first connector part (200, 300) according to claim 3 or any previous claim when dependent on claim 3, wherein the first winding (211, 311) is galvanically isolated from the second winding (311, 211) when the first connector part (200, 300) is mated with the second connector part (300, 200).

28. The first connector part (200) according to any previous claim, configured to be attached to or be a part of the apparatus (110).

29. The first connector part (300) according to any previous claim, configured to be attached to a mounting structure.

30. An apparatus (110) for a wireless communications network (100) comprising the first connector part (200) according to any of claims 1-28.2231 . A connector assembly (400) comprising the second connector part (300, 200) and the first connector part (200, 300) according to any of claims 1-29.

Images