LEMO WINS THE CONTEST OVER MIL 38999 CONNECTORS
29 september 2011
LEMO wins the contest over MIL 38999 on space-saving and contact density! with M Series range of triple-start micro connectors
For designers of man-portable, vehicle-mounted and aerospace electronics, the M-SERIES is the smallest multi-pin, fully shielded, vibration-secure and sealed connector available offering a lightweight, 'one-grip' screw-lock connection with high pin-count density, 360o EMI protection, and LEMO rugged quality.
For many of these military and aerospace applications, designers first seek MIL 38999 series connectors but when space is at a premium they need a smaller, higher contact density solution and the connector size becomes critical.
LEMO M-Series is made of high-strength aluminium and incorporates a triple start fast-locking ratchet mechanism, which enables quick and secure coupling of the connector for use in high vibration and harsh environments. The M Series connector is one of the lightest and most compact connectors of the LEMO product range providing a significant size and weight advantage over MIL-38999 connectors as well as over other micro circular connectors.
Typically a MIL spec 9-35 grounded plug with 6 contacts (for 22AWG max wires) has a diameter of 21mm, length of 31mm and takes a M12x1 backshell thread. The LEMO 1M fully shielded plug has up to 8 contacts (for 22AWG max wires), diameter of only 14.6mm and length 26.4mm, with optional M12x1 backshell thread. However the LEMO M1 is also available with integral backshell negating the need for the additional size and weight of a MIL backshell.
Smaller than the Mighty Mouse TM, with size 0M having a diameter of only 13mm, the M Series connector has two outer shell styles: arctic grip or knurled outer shell. The arctic grip makes it easy to manipulates while wearing gloves or when the connector is located in an area which is difficult to access, whilst the knurled grip option minimises the plug outer diameter for applications where size and/or weight are critical.
Better than Double Density TM contacts, for example with 114 contacts in a 34mm diameter shell, the short flange to pcb distance on pcb panel mount housings also provides the opportunity for much smaller enclosure sizes in comparison to other miniature military connecotrs, potentially leading to very significant savings in equipment weight and cost.
Typically the M Series flange to pcb depth is 10mm less than for an equivalent MIL38999 pcb mount jam nut receptacle, and the watertight (unmated) model is potted and has pcb mounting legs to add much greater stability to the whole assembly.
Designed for use in harsh enviornments, the scoop-proof M Series connectors have been subjected to the full range of MIL tests including vibration, gunfire, shock, altitude, lightning, temperature, immersion, sand and dust and chemical and flammability tests, clearly demonstrating capability of the range to handly tupical environments experienced in defence applications.
The range of M Series connectors has been expanded and now includes sizes 0, 1, 2, 3, TM, 4, LM and 5 equivalent to MIL shell sizes from below 8 to just under size 23 though with higher contact densities. Models available include fully grounded plugs, wall mount receptacles with square flange, jam nut receptacles, bulkhead receptacles and a range of caps to suit. Options for cable attachment include integral tie-wrap or overmould back ends, or alternatively screw threads for the fitting of standard MIL 38999 backshells.
The M series connector is available with a wide range of contact configurations, with multiple keys for ease of blind mating and 5 keyway options, two of which are reverse gender.
Precision machined gold-plated LEMO contacts are at the heart of all LEMO connectors, with the special internal sprint arrangement providing high contact ratings and excellent reliability and resistance to vibration and shock. Crimp contacts are offered as standard, except on potted panel mount connectors, with contact ratings up to 10A continuous on all contact together.
Reduced crimp barrel contacts are also available so that designers can take advantage of the lowest wire gauges for signal applications down to 32AWG thereby further reducing overall weight of equipment.
The M Series is designed for use in military applications such as soldier-mounted audio video and data communications, aircraft communications systems, navigation systems, land vehicle systems, surveillance equipment and UAV's, UMV's & other robotic equipment, wherever the environmental conditions require rugged and reliable connections. It is also finding success in other demanding environments such as motorsport.
The M Series are identified with a laser engraved part number and production batch number to ensure full traceability from raw materials to delivered product, with many options held in stock. Cable termination service is also offered from our Benelux site for a complete service.
For more information on LEMO M Series triple-start circular connectors contact LEMO Benelux on 0031(0)251-257820, info@lemo.nl
www.lemo.nl/assets/files/Catalogus/M%20Serie.pdf
