Key factors for selecting IoT connectors

    Choosing the right connector for IoT applications is crucial not only for providing reliability and other performance, but also for connecting IoT sensors and optimizing nodes.

    IoT experts believe that this technology can only fully realize its potential based on wireless communication. Although a large number of IoT nodes are powered by batteries and connected wirelessly, IoT systems cannot do without sensors connected by cables. Many connectors are very suitable for IoT applications. Designers looking for the best IoT connectors will consider various factors. For example, product characteristics, and whether the supplier has extensive knowledge of the product and can support it in applications.

Connector requirements for different applications

Memory connector

Although welding the memory module directly onto the board will take up the minimum space, it will also limit flexibility. Many engineers choose Memory module. Molex and TE provide good solutions in this field, providing memory connectors and custom Memory module for server, storage and communication applications.

Board to board connector

Typically, designers of IoT systems maintain flexibility by stacking boards, such as connecting different sensors to standard communication boards. The free height board to board connectors produced by TE are designed for parallel board stacking. These multifunctional units use subminiature connectors.

The free height connector provides a range of PIN digits from 40 to 440, with spacing ranging from 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.8mm, and 1mm. By combining various combinations of vertical plug and socket housing heights, the board to board height can be increased from 4mm to 20mm. If further space savings are needed, board to board connections can be flexibly placed in any position to minimize equipment layout space.

At the same time, cable connectors can provide extremely high connection density and small spacing dimensions. In order to meet the demand for smaller and more reliable connections, Molex has developed a series of low size/high density interconnection solutions with spacing ranging from 0.2mm to 2mm, as well as a dual contact design.

Power and data connectors

Although the battery life of some wireless sensors is up to 20 years, for many Internet of Things applications, especially in the Industrial internet of things, cables are usually used to power equipment. Enable designers to integrate higher power processors and peripheral devices into their solutions.

When it is necessary to transmit power and data simultaneously, a 2mm connector is a standard choice. For example, Samtec's sockets, pins, terminals, etc. are suitable for small space, high-density design, and can connect multiple boards together. Provide vertical and right angle/horizontal directions, as well as through holes, surface mounting, crimping, and through terminals.

IoT designers are looking for a more compact appearance than traditional 2mm connectors. TE provides 1.5mm AMP CT connectors, which are micro line to board interconnection solutions, while Sammec provides 1.27mm spacing board stacked sockets and terminals. These sturdy, low-cost products combine low height and high density to meet different directional contact styles.

Waterproof sealed connector

Some IoT devices must be able to resist the entry of water or dust. For example, HARTING's lightweight HAN industrial connector series products can transmit power and data, and can be used for heating or cooling units, fans, control terminals, lighting systems, drivers, and vibration conveyors. In outdoor installation, HAN connectors can provide protection against the entry of dust and liquids, and have a sealing rating of IP65.

Configurable connectors

In the vast majority of IoT applications, space is always a key factor. Therefore, rather than using standard ready-made products that create more connection locations and occupy unnecessary space, it is better to meet the exact installation requirements through configuration.

Reliability and cost are key

Reliability and cost are key factors in selecting connectors. The TE low-cost FASTON quick connect product line includes low insertion force terminals, high-temperature units, and low-voltage terminals. Equipped with insulated and non insulated versions and various electroplating options, terminals are characterized by reduced stress, easy installation, and safe fixation.

IoT system connectors are an important market. Advanced IoT solutions are based on the excellent performance provided by hardware connectivity systems.