Compact Cable Connector for High-Speed Server Signal Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors are too large to fit near server chips, leading to signal attenuation and inefficient use of motherboard space, especially at high signal transmission speeds like 56 Gbps and 112 Gbps.
Innovation Solution
A compact cable connector design with a cable-end insulating main body, conductive terminal groups, and a buckle system that allows for a low profile assembly under a server radiator, including guide positioning posts and a drawstring mechanism for secure alignment and reduced height, enabling efficient use of space and improved signal integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional connector products are used, then signal transmission function is provided, but the size is relatively large and cannot fit near server chip
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design transitions from a conventional larger form factor to a low-profile configuration by reducing height in the vertical dimension. The overall height is reduced to less than 8mm, allowing the connector to fit under server radiators while maintaining signal transmission functionality through optimized conductive terminal group arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable-end conductive terminal group is nested within the cable-end insulating main body, with the insulating main body containing and protecting the conductive elements. This nested structure allows for compact integration while maintaining signal integrity, enabling the connector to achieve both small size and reliable electrical connection.
2Volume of moving object
If connector height is reduced to fit under radiator, then space utilization is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional components: the cable-end insulating main body, the cable-end conductive terminal group, and the buckle assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while contributing to the overall compact design, managing complexity through modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The buckle assembly integrates multiple functions into a single component structure, combining the locking mechanism with the positioning function. The buckle engages with both the cable-end insulating main body and the board-end connector simultaneously, reducing the number of separate parts needed while maintaining structural integrity and compact dimensions.
3Volume of moving object
If compact design is implemented, then space under radiator is utilized, but positioning precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The guide positioning posts and guide holes are designed to automatically guide the insertion and positioning of the connector during assembly. The buckle mechanism provides self-aligning features that ensure precise engagement between the cable-end connector and board-end connector without requiring external positioning tools or complex adjustment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide positioning posts and limit slots are pre-configured in specific positions and orientations before assembly. These pre-positioned features establish the correct alignment and orientation of the connector components, ensuring precise positioning is achieved automatically during the assembly process without requiring post-assembly adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable connector includes a cable-end insulating main body, a cable-end conductive terminal group provided inside the cable-end insulating main body, a cable electrically connected to the cable-end conductive terminal group, and a buckle installed above the cable-end insulating main body. The cable-end insulating main body includes a main body portion, an insertion portion formed by extending forward from the main body portion, and a buckle portion formed by extending upward and forward from an upper surface of the main body portion. A buckle slot is provided on the top of the buckle portion, the buckle is installed in the buckle slot, a first plug slot is provided in the insertion portion, the cable-end conductive terminal group is provided in the first plug slot, and a first limit slot is provided between a portion of the buckle portion extending out the main body portion and the insertion portion.