Compact impedance matched connectors for SpaceWire Links Development and ESCC Evaluation

The objective is firstly to develop an impedance matched compact connector which shall be possible to use as an alternative connector for SpaceWire cable assemblies and which ensure optimal EM shield termination as well as allowing higher transfer rates than what is possible with the current micro-d connector. The second objective of this activity is to carry out the ESCC evaluation of the connector(s) for SpaceWire cable assemblies, including connectors plugs and receptacles.

At present there are few European compact connector solutions that offer performances required for high speed operation of SpaceWire as well as meeting the stringent environmental requirements in space applications. The ECSS E-ST-50-12C defines the connectors and cables to be used on a SpaceWire Cable Assembly, respectively as per ESCC 3401/071 and ESCC 3902/003. Recent developments done under the frame of an ESA TRP activity lead to the definition of new cable variants allowing noticeable mass saving, compared to the current variant of the ESCC 3902/003. Connectors as per ESCC 3401/071 are not ESCC qualified and do not offer optimal inner shield termination compatible with SpaceWire cables (ground continuity, EMC, etc.) and could limit the use of the new SpaceWire cable variants.Therefore, the development of connectors optimized for new SpaceWire cable variants and compliant with space constraints, is required. The developments shall also take into account constraints of ultra-high speed links in order to investigate the use of this new connectors in such links. Solutions based on twinax contacts and/or quadrax contacts may be considered as very interesting candidates. During this activity, new design and/or new technologies of connectors will be developed. Then the ESCC evaluation of selected new design or technology will be carried out at cable assembly level including receptacles.