Electronic and digital embedded systems technology—such as deployed in fly-by-wire computer systems or in other electronics gear—enables military and commercial aircraft to process the massive loads of data generated by critical navigation, communication, and flight-control systems.
Embedded RF transmit/receive systems on communication satellites require interconnects that save size and weight and can operate successfully under the extreme environmental conditions of space
Interconnects and the Evolution of Modern Flight Systems Mission-critical electronics extend through every zone of a modern aircraft, ship, or spacecraft, and require complex interconnection of critical power supplies, remote sensors, and control computers. Radio frequency (RF) and higher-frequency microwave systems, for example, are ubiquitous in avionic platforms. RF transmission-and-receive modules are backbone technologies in AESA radar systems. Other RF LRUs are found in satellite communications and instrument flight procedure (IFP) platforms. High-speed digital datalinks, such as deployed in short-distance copper connections for 10 Gigabit Ethernet, are critical in a wide range of sensor, video downlink, and data storage applications.
Power connections are equally essential, as every avionic and flight technology system depends on the safe provision of electrical power for operation. From low-power sensor requirements (say 3–5 amps) to higher power requirements for actuators and other electromechanical devices, the delivery of reliable power is a key requirement in EWIS wiring. In all these cases—RF, high-speed digital, and power, as well as in more conventional signal (databus) applications—industry requirements have evolved far beyond the capabilities of conventional interconnect devices. Gone are the days when a standard-density power or signal connector would be of any interest to EWIS designers facing extreme data-rate, mechanical, environmental, and electrical requirements of operation. Likewise gone is any interest in interconnect technologies that fail to contribute to size and weight reduction efforts in modern aerospace systems. Mighty Mouse: The Original Small Form-Factor Circular From fixed wing and rotary aircraft to space launch and satellite systems, the evolution in connector and cable miniaturization has reached full maturity in high- density, ruggedized connectors like the Glenair Mighty Mouse. These reduced form-factor circulars have been optimized for harsh environmental performance in aerospace and defense platforms. The Mighty Mouse Series 805, for example—a double-start rapid mate circular connector—has been designed into more commercial and military aircraft platforms than any other mil-grade micro miniature connector.
Evaluation flight of the first-ever formation of F-16 Fighting Falcons equipped with Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars
QwikConnect • January 2022
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