Hybrid Card Edge Connector Layout for High-Speed Signal Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors face challenges in simultaneously transmitting high-speed signals and power efficiently, often compromising signal integrity or increasing system size.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid electrical connector design with distinct portions for power and signal conductors, featuring a housing with separate channels and a lossy member to support power transmission and high-speed signal integrity, compliant with PCIe standards, allowing for simultaneous power and signal transmission without significant size increase.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single connector is used to transmit both power and high-speed signals, then the system complexity is reduced, but signal integrity deteriorates due to interference between power and signal conductors
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct first and second portions, with signal conductors placed in the first portion and power conductors in the second portion. This spatial segmentation isolates high-speed signals from power conductors, preventing electromagnetic interference while maintaining a unified connector structure that reduces overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the connector are assigned different functional qualities: the first portion is optimized for high-speed signal transmission with appropriate impedance control, while the second portion is designed for power transmission. This local differentiation allows each region to perform its specific function optimally without compromising the other.
2Reliability
If separate connectors are used for power and signal transmission, then signal integrity is maintained, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate power and signal connector functions into a single hybrid connector assembly. The housing integrates both signal conductor receptacles and power conductor receptacles, allowing simultaneous transmission of power and high-speed signals through one unified interface rather than requiring multiple separate connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The single connector housing serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for both signal and power conductors, establishes electrical connections for both types of conductors, and maintains proper spacing and alignment between signal and power regions. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed while preserving signal integrity.
3Volume of moving object
If power conductors are placed adjacent to signal conductors, then the connector size is reduced, but electromagnetic interference increases affecting signal quality
Solution Approach 1:
A lossy member is introduced as an intermediary element positioned between the signal conductors and power conductors. This lossy member absorbs electromagnetic energy and prevents coupling between the two types of conductors, acting as a barrier that blocks harmful electromagnetic interference while allowing the connector to maintain a compact size.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector employs localized shielding and spacing strategies: signal conductors are grouped together in the first portion with appropriate spacing, power conductors are grouped in the second portion, and a lossy member is strategically placed at the boundary. This local quality differentiation minimizes electromagnetic interference while maintaining compact dimensions.
Data Source
AI summary
A compact card edge connector for transmitting power and high-speed signals. The connector has a housing with a first portion holding first conductors and a second portion holding second conductors. Mounting ends of the first conductors extend out of the first portion and are configured to mount to a printed circuit board for power transmission. Mounting ends of the second conductors extend out of the second portion and are configured to mount with cables for signal transmission. The mounting ends of the second conductors are recessed from respective intermediate portions. The housing has a bottom member with projections abutting the mounting ends of first-type second conductors, and a lossy member electrically coupling second-type second conductors. Such a configuration meets signal integrity requirements in connectors designed for 32 Gbps and 64 Gbps and beyond, while conforming to a standard that constrains mating and mounting interfaces.