MilSpec Connectors Q&A with PEI-Genesis

The component industry is a rapidly changing and complex beast. In order to make sense of it all, we like to reach out to our partners in the component world from time to time to hear their views on industry trends.

We recently sat down with PEI-Genesis, a leader in the custom connector and cable market, to talk about the challenges and demands of designing connectors for equipping the modern soldier.

Octopart: Can you talk about some of the requirements and applications of specific connectors when it comes to outfitting the modern soldier?

PEI-Genesis: The modern battlefield is a unique domain where men and machine are coordinated to present a unified front. Armed with high speed copper and lightning quick fiber, networks information must flow uninterrupted to provide commanders the necessary data to construct their next objectives. Speed, size and serviceability are some cornerstone elements that drive the connector solutions present in today’s campaigns.

Each soldier is capable of carrying a limited amount of payload. Low weight and small form factor connectors allow soldiers to maintain their customary complement of arms and munitions, while facilitating the aforementioned flow of information. Serviceability is an attribute that permits these products to be deployed into harsh environments and extend their service life in the most extreme of environments. Overall our solutions need to operate under vigorous conditions while meeting precise protocols.

What are some of the trends driving the evolution of these connectors?

PEI-Genesis: Size, weight and serviceability are the major influences in technology advancement. Small form factor products allow for integration of advanced systems to occur without hindering the capabilities of an asset. Low weight connectors allow for vehicles and soldiers to maintain their standard payload without having to sacrifice necessary items to facilitate modern amenities. Serviceability allows military members to perform their typical functions free of operational limitations. The confluence of these attributes produces a robust product able to preserve operational parameters while enhancing battlefield feedback to the chain of command.

Are there any factors to be considered when designing for military use vs civilian use in harsh environments?

PEI-Genesis: Source ability is a huge concern for military customers. Compatibility and attainability are going to dictate solution approval or denial. Military systems need to achieve maintainability via readily available product. Military part numbers service this need as they are produced by multiple MFGs. This multiple source model is a must when servicing a military application.

What are some of the challenges in designing these interconnected systems for military use?

PEI-Genesis: Military applications are extremely demanding due to their exposure to harmful elements. From explosions to fuel spills our solutions need to be able to meet operational needs. Unique applications demand equally capable solutions. Understanding where a product will deploy and how it will function guides our actions as we strive to employ the perfect connector solution.

We’d like to thank our partners at PEI-Genesis for taking the time to answer our questions. If you have any additional questions you would like answered, or if there’s a specific aspect of the component industry that you’d like to know more about, drop a comment below or send your questions to contact@octopart.com