Shielded Network Connector Module for Low-Pitch EMC Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standardized network connectors with low pitch are prone to high cross-talk levels and decreased electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) when used for high data rate communications, such as those required in automotive applications, and existing solutions with shielding increase manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A network connector module with a shielded cable and electrical shielding member made of cut and bent sheet metal, which surrounds the module housing and contacts, allowing for data rates of up to 1 Gbit/s while maintaining low cross-talk and improved EMC, and is designed to fit within standardized interfaces with specific contact patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standardized interfaces with low pitch are used for high data rate communication, then compatibility with existing connectors is improved, but cross-talk levels increase and EMC properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate contact elements arranged in specific patterns, with ground contacts and signal contacts segregated into different groups. This segmentation allows the low-pitch standardized interface to maintain compatibility while reducing cross-talk between adjacent signal paths by grouping them with ground contacts.
Solution Approach 2:
Ground contacts are introduced as intermediary elements between signal contacts. These ground contacts act as shielding barriers that reduce electromagnetic interference and cross-talk between adjacent signal paths, thereby improving EMC properties while maintaining the standardized low-pitch interface layout.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If electrical shielding members entirely surrounding the connector housing are provided, then EMC properties and cross-talk reduction are improved, but manufacturing costs increase and integration into standardized connectors becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The shielding function is extracted from a separate surrounding housing structure and integrated directly into the contact elements themselves. Ground contacts are configured to provide localized shielding around signal contacts, eliminating the need for additional external shielding components and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding function is merged with the ground contact elements. The ground contacts serve dual purposes: providing electrical grounding and simultaneously acting as electromagnetic shields for adjacent signal paths. This integration eliminates separate shielding components and simplifies the overall connector structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If contact pitch is reduced to match standardized interfaces, then adaptability to standardized connectors is improved, but cross-talk levels increase due to closer spacing of adjacent contacts
Solution Approach 1:
Different contact elements are assigned different functions based on their local position. Ground contacts are strategically placed at specific locations to provide localized electromagnetic shielding for adjacent signal contacts. This local quality approach allows low-pitch arrangement while maintaining low cross-talk through position-dependent functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Adjacent ground contacts are electrically connected to create equipotential regions that shield signal paths from electromagnetic interference. By maintaining equal potential across adjacent ground contacts, the system reduces electromagnetic field coupling between signal paths despite close spacing, thereby reducing cross-talk while maintaining standardized low-pitch geometry.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
The present invention relates to a network connector module for a network connector adapted for network communication with data rates of at least up to 1 Gbit/s. The network connector module comprises a module housing of electrically insulating material wherein the module housing comprises at least two terminal receptacles that are arranged directly adjacent to each other, each of the terminal receptacles receives an electrical contact terminal. The network connector module comprises further an electrical shielding member made of cut and bent sheet metal, wherein the electrical shielding member at least partially surrounds the module housing. The electrical shielding member includes at least two contact elements for electrically contacting ground contacts of a corresponding counter connector. The contact elements are arranged lateral of the module housing, so as to be in a row with the electrical contact terminals. Further, the contact elements sandwich the electrical contact terminals.