Innovative connectors with high data rates for medical applications

The medical electronics industry is one of the most important market segments for Samtec. Specific connector systems have therefore been developed for these applications and are used very successfully worldwide.

Connectors for high data rates are a particular challenge. These applications are growing rapidly and require different concepts for different areas of application.

This blog presents three connectors for high data rates that are frequently used in medical electronics.

High-speed cable assemblies

High-speed cable assemblies are most commonly used for medical imaging (MRI, CT/CAT scans, PET scans and ultrasound) and rapid diagnostics. High-speed cable assemblies are available with micro-coaxial and twinax cables for both single-ended and differential applications. Most designers incorporate a Samtec Flyover® cable system; this extends signal reach and density to achieve next-generation speeds by routing signals over an ultra-low signal distortion cable instead of a lossy PCB.

As bandwidth requirements increase, effective heat dissipation and signal routing through lossy PCBs, vias and other components have become complex challenges. Samtec flyover cable systems break through the limitations of traditional signal substrates and hardware offerings, providing a cost-effective, high-performance and thermally efficient answer to the challenges of bandwidths of 112 Gbps and beyond.

Optical cable assemblies

Optical cable assemblies were originally of interest to medical designers because they are non-magnetic. But they have become popular because of the data rates (of course) and the small size of the connector. The FireFly™ optical cable system allows for higher density and closer proximity to the IC, enabling chip-to-chip, board-to-board, on-board and system-to-system connectivity. The data rates achieved with optical cables allow designers to incorporate future feature enhancements without having to redesign their boards.

Both high-speed cable assemblies and optical cable assemblies are also popular in rapid diagnostic devices. Same-day Covid-19 test results and the imminent demand for in-store testing devices (e.g. self-testing for Covid-19 and other infections at your local drugstore) are two examples of this market. Other examples include DNA sequencing and infectious disease analysis.

High-density arrays, micro high-speed edge card connectors

High-density open pin-field arrays (SEARAY™) are popular with designers because they allow maximum routing and grounding flexibility, are available in a variety of design options (different pin counts, different stack heights, etc.) and incorporate the robust Edge Rate® contact system. Like high-speed cable assemblies and optical cable systems, SEARAY is often integrated into high-speed imaging equipment as well as rapid diagnostic devices.

Micro-pitch high-speed edge card connectors (HSEC8) are popular in portable medical devices, including ultrasound devices, pulse oximetry sensors, smart AEDs, etc.