Modular Electrical Connector Shielding for High-Density Signal Pairs
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Solution Overview
Problem
As electronic components become more complex and densely packed on circuit boards, there is a need for connectors that can handle higher speeds with reduced cross-talk and maintain signal integrity, which existing connectors fail to achieve effectively due to increased pin densities and reduced spacing between electrical terminals.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector system with overmolded shielding components, including ground plates with jogged sections and wavy configurations, is used to position ground contacts offset from signal contacts, providing comprehensive electrical shielding and reducing cross-talk by surrounding signal contacts with ground contacts and plates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If pin density is increased and spacing between electrical terminals is reduced, then more components can be fitted in less space, but cross-talk between signal contacts increases and signal integrity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Ground contacts serve as intermediary elements positioned between adjacent signal contact pairs. These ground contacts act as shielding mediators that intercept and divert electromagnetic interference, preventing cross-talk between signal pairs while allowing high pin density in the connector
Solution Approach 2:
The connector structure implements local quality by providing ground shielding specifically between signal pairs where cross-talk occurs, rather than uniform shielding throughout. The ground contacts are strategically positioned adjacent to signal contacts at specific locations where electromagnetic interference is most problematic, providing targeted protection while maintaining overall connector density
2Object-affected harmful factors
If ground contacts are positioned adjacent to signal contacts, then cross-talk is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases due to precise positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The ground contacts and signal contacts are merged into a single modular connector assembly where both contact types are housed together in the same connector body. This integration allows the ground contacts to be precisely positioned relative to signal contacts during the molding process, reducing manufacturing complexity compared to separate assembly operations
Solution Approach 2:
The ground contacts are pre-positioned and pre-assembled with the signal contacts within the modular connector housing before final installation. This preliminary positioning ensures precise alignment and spacing between ground and signal contacts, eliminating the need for complex post-assembly adjustments and simplifying the manufacturing process
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrical connector (12) for use in an electrical connector system (10) which controls cross-talk and signal radiation. The electrical connector (12) includes a housing (38) having a plurality of modules (40). The modules (40) have mating ends (46) and mounting ends (42). Signal contacts (48) are positioned in the modules (40). The signal contacts (48) extend between the mating ends (46) and the mounting ends (42) and are arranged in pairs to carry differential signals. Ground contacts (50) are positioned in the modules (40). The ground contacts (50) extend between the mating ends (46) and the mounting ends (42). Respective ground contacts (50) of the ground contacts (50) are positioned adjacent to respective signal contacts (48) of the signal contacts (48). Ground plates (52) are positioned in the modules (40). The ground plates (52) extend between the mating ends (46) and the mounting ends (42), the ground contacts (50) are electrically connected to the ground plates (52).