ODU AMC High-Density as a solution

As a counterpart to the standard interface, ODU offers their AMC High-Density miniature circular connectors – space saving and powerful for power and data rates.

High contact density allows for high currents in a small space, making them ideal for mobile military systems. The robust design was developed for connection under extreme conditions and can withstand even strong vibrations, moisture, dust and considerable temperature fluctuations from -40° C to +85° C.

With IP68 / IP6K9K, the system is also permanently protected against the ingress of water, even during high-pressure cleaning or submersion. Furthermore, the seamless EMC shielding ensures reliable signal transmission even with high electromagnetic interference.

A break-away function enables quick disconnection in an emergency – alternatively, an additional screw-lock function ensures robust permanently fixed positions.

But that is not the end of the USB saga

Military equipment is undergoing a huge transformation, with a proliferation of small COTS devices, often connected/charged via a standard USB-C socket.

So, what is now needed is an ‘umbilical’ link between base equipment and the various hand-held devices. ODU now offers just such a pragmatic solution:

 ODU AMC High-Density to USB-C interface umbilical

• ODU AMC High-Density 12.8mm diameter connector at one end and a right-angled over-moulded USB-C plug at the other – crucial for mobile systems.
• Maximum flexibility and convenience thanks to cable lengths of up to 4 metres.
• Power transmission up to 5A and data rates up to 480 Mbit/s
• Robust design for -40° C to +85° C and 5,000 mating cycles

This umbilical offers the best possible solution – retaining the high integrity of the connection to base equipment while providing the most rugged connection to the small ancillary devices.

ODU-UK Ltd                                          tel: 0330 002 0640   

sales@odu-uk.co.uk                            www.odu-connectors.com/uk    

While the robotics market continues to be dominated by manufacturers in central Europe and Asia, UK manufacturers are increasingly leading in other areas of industrial automation, such as robotic process automation, packing, warehousing, logistics and more. Original equipment manufacturers in the UK therefore have a unique opportunity to innovate and compete by embracing smarter, more resilient machinery.

Taking a customised approach from the design and development stage will help limit downtime, streamline assembly and deliver leading performance, helping businesses capitalise on the situation.

Areas of focus

The rise of the smart factory has significantly increased the scope of industrial automation outside the realm of traditional robotics, both on and off the factory floor. Cobots (collaborative robots) are entering these areas, too, alongside robotic pickers, conveyor systems and high-speed sensors. This is in addition to autonomous guided vehicles used in warehousing, automated test rigs in use for in-house testing and measurement, and more.

Opting for custom cable assemblies and components at the earliest stages of a project ensures robustness and suitability of the design, but also it simplifies it, reducing component count and streamlining assembly. Custom wiring looms, for example, combine multiple complex types of wires and cables to meet space constraints, simplify installation and leave room to accommodate future growth or the addition of new features.

Ruggedisation against stress

Off-the-shelf solutions often fall short of this sector’s tough requirements, where high levels of vibration and temperature resistance are required to protect component from failure due to mechanical stress.

Similarly, design and development engineers might be required to specify cable assemblies rated to industrial IP standards for dust, moisture and shock protection to meet industry or country-specific compliance laws.

Giving engineers the ability to customise and ruggedise components means increasing the reliability of the system, particularly where physical impacts are likely – such as in material handling or packaging lines. This minimises the risk of failure and downtime.

Then, there is the testing and validation stage, which is just as important. Physical prototyping is a must, to ensure your customised assembly meets all performance and safety standards.

Precision for high-movement applications

Taking a custom approach to design and manufacturing can be especially relevant for OEMs that supply drives and motion control systems, where a high degree of precision, speed and control is required. This includes servo motors, linear actuators, or gear-driven robotic arms — machinery that operates with constant flexing, repetitive cycles, and high acceleration and deceleration forces.

Customising the assemblies and components provides peace of mind about the precision of your electronics, whilst guarding against assembly failure, which could cause misalignment. Where standard industrial cabling might fail in servo motors, due to either conductor fatigue or sheath breakdown, design and development engineers can specify customised cables with controlled bend radii, overmoulded strain reliefs and reinforced jacketing to deliver extended flex lives.

EMI shielding for signal integrity

Another vital consideration during the product development stages is the preservation of signal integrity, especially in the presence of other electronics. This is even an even greater concern for industrial electronics operating in ‘noisy’ factory floor environments.

Signal degradation can deliver faulty test results and unreliable system feedback, while control panels near heavy machinery can also be affected by electromagnetic interference (EMI). Selecting suitable materials for the cable, insulation, shielding and connectors – based on performance and environmental requirements – is a crucial design consideration for engineers.

Customising cable assemblies means that design engineers can combine power and signal functions into a single assembly, enjoying simpler routing without worrying about crosstalk. Instead, they can work with the manufacturer to specify shielded enclosures within the assembly, EMI filters on power and signal lines, and physical separation within the assembly. This can all be achieved while maintaining a minimal level of interference acceptable for high-spec environments.

Custom cable assemblies

In essence, engineers designing automation and industrial systems should consider specifying custom cable assemblies early in the design process to ensure system reliability, reduce on-site rework, and meet safety and compliance standards.

By Paul Dearman, Head of Business Development, GTK

www.gtk.co.uk

“Molex is excited to reinforce our commitment to the aerospace and defense market with the acquisition of Smiths Interconnect,” said Joe Nelligan, CEO, Molex.

The acquisition is a strategic plan to further strengthen Molex in aerospace and defence sectors, following its acquisition of AirBorn last November.

“The combination of Molex’s global scale, capabilities and financial stability with Smiths Interconnect’s complementary technologies, products, customers and footprint will enable us to expand our aerospace and defense business and support customers in new and innovative ways,” said Nelligan.

Smiths Interconnect designs and manufactures innovative electronic components, along with microwave, optical and radio frequency products and subsystems that connect, protect and control critical applications.

Smiths Interconnect has 21 sales, R&D and manufacturing locations across 12 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Italy, Tunisia, India, China and Singapore.

The acquisition is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. More information will be shared at that time. Jones Day is acting as Molex’s legal advisor and Rothschild & Co is serving as Molex’s exclusive financial advisor.

www.molex.com.

The ODU-MAC Power Connector stands out by combining high-current and high-voltage transmission up to 600 A in a single connector, achieved via bridged contacts with current rails, while providing IP2X touch protection for enhanced user safety.

The proven ODU LAMTAC Flex contact system guarantees low mating and unmating forces and is designed for more than 10,000 mating cycles. Typical application areas include e-mobility, end-of-line testing, and high-voltage testing.

The new M216 / M316 variant brings these advantages to manual operation. Pre-assembled silicone cables, the robust housing, and ODU LAMTAC Flex contacts ensure long service life and operational reliability.

Just like the existing docking versions, the manual solution can be flexibly combined with ODU-MAC® Blue-Line modules, enabling a wide variety of transmission types: from signal, power, and high current to coax, pneumatics, fluids, high-speed data, and fibre optics.

Thanks to its modularity, the connector also simplifies maintenance and reduces downtime: while conventional solutions often require several connectors to supply the necessary currents, the M216/M316 achieves this with a single plug-in action.

Delivered as a complete system with pre-assembled cables, it reduces customer effort while offering maximum flexibility for demanding testing and measurement environments, such as automotive and battery testing.

For further information, download the: ODU-MAC power solutions brochure

ODU-UK Ltd                                          tel: 0330 002 0640                                                                                                                                  email: sales@odu-uk.co.uk              web: www.odu-connectors.com/uk      

The 2-port MMC FeedThrough Adaptor accepts one or two US CONEC APC-polished connectors and is supplied with two single-port dust covers on both the front and rear (four in total).

It is initially offered in the following options:

• Standard XLR shell, nickel-plated or matt black finished zinc metal frame, with countersunk or M3 threaded holes.
• DUALSLIM narrow, nickel-plated or matt black finished zinc metal frame, with countersunk or M3 threaded holes.
• Can be assembled in any of Cliff’s FT frames upon request.

Applications include:

• Data Centres – high-density optical connections for server racks and patch panels, multi-fibre breakout in top-of-rack and middle-of-row configurations and is ideal for hyperscale environments where space is critical.
• Cloud Infrastructure – backbone and interconnect solutions in cloud storage networks, supports fast deployment and scalable fibre distribution systems and compatible with VSFF (Very Small Form Factor) architectures.
• AI / Machine Learning Clusters – fibre optic backbone for GPU-based compute clusters, high-bandwidth interconnections between AI training nodes and low-latency connections for real-time data processing.
• Enterprise Networks – future-proofed fibre connectivity in modern office buildings, integration into structured cabling systems and suited for fibre-to-desk (FTTD) or high-density patch panels.
• Telecom & ISP Equipment – multi-fibre solutions for central offices, POPs, or edge networks, scalable port density for broadband expansion and ready for 5G and next-gen fibre rollout
• Test & Measurement Equipment – optical interface access in lab instrumentation, modular setup for R&D environments or production testing and supports quick changes in fibre topology without rework.

The new Cliff 2-port MMC Feedthrough Adaptor offers users many advantages  such as – accepts 1 or 2 US CONEC MMC APC connectors, supports multi-mode and single-mode fibres, enables high-density, low-footprint connectivity, mountable in XLR or DualSLIM FT panels (modular installation) and is supplied with front and rear dust covers for port protection

Cliff Electronics growing range of FeedThrough connectors now offers analogue, digital and optical connectivity in formats including BNC (50 or 75 ohm), DisplayPort, HDMI, Optical fibre (FC, LC Duplex, SC Simplex, ST BFOC, TOSLINK and US Conec MTP® brand MPO), RCA phono, RJ45 ethernet (UTP or FTP) in Cat6, Cat6a or Cat5e, USB 2, USB 3 and USB-C.

Cliffuk.co.uk

“We’ve reached a point where Simkiss Group is not only competing but leading in our sectors. Our expansion into larger premises earlier this year gave us the capacity to increase the amount of projects we can deliver, and the recruitment drive we are undertaking reflects the demand we’re seeing from clients. Growth for us isn’t just about size –  it’s about capability. We’re investing in people, in skills and in the systems that will keep us at the forefront of this industry,” said Simon Bodill, Managing Director at Simkiss Group.

As part of this momentum, Simkiss Group has completed the acquisition of Instrument Control Services (ICS) Ltd, a business with more than three decades of experience in low, medium and high-voltage systems. The addition of ICS brings expertise in panel build, testing and commissioning, preventative maintenance, cabling and jointing up to 33kV, and containerised electrical solutions. This acquisition is more than a growth move –  it positions Simkiss as a one-stop shop for complete, end-to-end solutions delivered through a single trusted partner.

“From the very beginning, our goal has been to evolve alongside our clients and offer them more of what they need, all under one roof. ICS shares that same approach, and bringing the two companies together feels like a natural fit. The combined capabilities mean our customers can expect a seamless service – from design to delivery to long-term support – with the reassurance of working with one team,” said Paul Simkiss, Chairman and Founder.

ICS will continue trading under its existing name and operating from its Stoke-on-Trent premises, ensuring continuity for its long-standing clients. At the same time, ICS’s people will become part of the wider Simkiss Group family, contributing to the culture of growth and innovation that defines the business today.

“This is an energising time for our teams,” added Bodill. “We are building something sustainable, forward-looking, and ambitious. Growth like this doesn’t happen by accident –  it comes from having talented people and a clear vision of where we’re going. The future for Simkiss Group is very bright.”

Founded in 1999 by Paul Simkiss, the business has grown steadily by supporting blue-chip clients with an ever-broadening range of services. Today, Simkiss Group operates at scale across the UK, delivering complex projects in design, manufacture, installation, commissioning and maintenance. Its growth is underpinned by a clear strategy to expand capabilities and invest in its people continually.

www.simkiss.co.uk

Powered by investments

Rail operators are making significant investments in digitalisation and automation, worldwide. In Germany, Deutsche Bahn is trialling fully automated trains in Hamburg as part of its ‘Digital Rail Germany’ initiative, planning to increase capacity and reduce emissions without expanding the physical infrastructure. Meanwhile, East Japan Railway Company (JR East) is advancing plans to introduce driverless Shinkansen bullet trains by the mid-2030s, starting with a line between Tokyo and Niigata.

All these efforts signal a wider shift toward rail systems built with AI at the heart, with real-time analytics and high-speed communication, all of which depend on reliable interconnect technology.

Connecting complexity

However, the railway environment has some of the most severe conditions for electrical cables and connectors. Rolling stock and trackside hardware are exposed to constant vibration, harsh temperature extremes from -55°C up to +200°C, as well as high humidity. Equally, connectors are also exposed to contaminants like dust, oil and de-icing agents.

Then, there is electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by traction drives and overhead cables, which can affect signal integrity, unless connectors are effectively shielded.

Connectors designed for rail applications must be ruggedised to meet stringent international standards such as EN 50155 and EN 45545-2, NFPA 130, VG 95234 and MIL-DTL-5015. These benchmarks define the connector’s ability to withstand shock, vibration, fire exposure and long-term environmental stress. RoHS and REACH variations along with corrosion resistant plating make for rugged and reliable connector solutions in the harshest environments.

Autonomous trains bring added demands on the connectors: They must be capable of supporting high-speed data transmission protocols such as Gigabit and 10-Gigabit Ethernet (typically Cat 6A and Cat 7), USB 3.1 and fibre optic interfaces.

All these protocols are essential for handling real-time data streams from sensors, LiDAR systems, onboard diagnostics and communication networks. Data rates in these environments can exceed 10Gbps, especially when multiple high-bandwidth systems, such as video surveillance, telemetry and predictive maintenance sensors are operating concurrently.

We mustn’t forget the mechanical aspect of connectors, where resilience remains critical. Connectors generally incorporate bayonet or threaded coupling systems to maintain secure connections under vibration. Contact retention mechanisms are designed for longevity, often rated for thousands of mating cycles. Contacts are generally gold-plated to minimise corrosion and offer low contact resistance for a prolonged time. These are also available in silver-plated versions.

Then, there is ease of maintenance as another crucial factor, particularly for retrofit applications. Modular connector designs and coding schemes enable simple installation and error-proofing. In addition, quick-disconnect configurations ensure quick field servicing with minimal downtime.

Future-proofing rail connectivity

As Rail 4.0 evolves, so too must the technology that supports it. Upcoming innovations in train autonomy and electrification demand connectors with greater bandwidth, higher power ratings and smarter integration capabilities.

For example, the development of distributed traction systems and battery-electric multiple units (BEMUs) introduces new requirements for high-voltage, high-current connectors that can handle regenerative braking energy and rapid charging. These connectors must include safety interlocks, arc suppression features and compliance with standards such as IEC 61373 for shock and vibration.

Simultaneously, increased deployment of real-time diagnostics and condition monitoring means that connectors must support multiple sensor interfaces. Emerging designs now incorporate built-in diagnostics, enabling connectors themselves to report on temperature, contact resistance, or mechanical wear, turning passive components into intelligent assets.

Modularity is another key trend. Future rail systems will demand flexible, reconfigurable architectures to accommodate upgrades and regional customisations. Connectors that support daisy-chaining, backplane mounting and tool-less assembly are increasingly favoured to reduce downtime and simplify system expansion.

PEI-Genesis supplies a wide range of connectors engineered specifically for challenging rail environments. The portfolio includes high-power solutions designed to handle demanding electrical loads, as well as high-speed data connectors used in communications and control systems. These connectors are designed to meet strict global rail standards, including EN 50155. With modularity and rugged design as core principles, our connectors support applications ranging from onboard control systems to trackside signal units, playing an essential role in powering the next generation of autonomous rail technology.

Connectors remain vital

As the global rail industry accelerates towards full automation, the supporting technologies behind the scenes are just as vital as the software that guides the trains. Connectors play a crucial role in delivering the reliability, safety and performance required by Rail 4.0. They serve as the nervous system of modern trains, making real-time communication and electrified propulsion possible in even the harshest environments. Looking ahead, the connector landscape will continue to evolve alongside rail innovation, offering smarter, faster and more resilient solutions that keep the railways of the future on track.

By Karen James, Product Manager, PEI-Genesis

That’s why we developed the Vibration-resistant quarter turn – a patented locking solution built for reliability across sectors like railway, machinery, and industrial enclosures.

Vibration and shock tested (BS EN 61373)
Fire protection rated (BS EN 45545-3 E60)
IP66 rated
Durable and easy to use
Available in zinc die-cast and stainless steel

With constant spring pressure, positive-locking end positions, and a straightforward 90° turn operation, this solution provides secure latching, even under continuous motion.

It’s cost-effective, reliable, and ensures long-term performance — all with a simplified mechanism.

This locking mechanism is ideal for:

-Industrial control cabinets
-Railway vehicles
-Road and off-road vehicles
-Outdoor enclosures and machinery

www.emka.com

Now, by adding a new fibre-optic range, ODU are providing even greater performance.

ODU Expanded Beam Performance Connectors

Matching the optical performance of Physical Contact fibre-optics with an advanced Expanded Beam technology, offering high-end transmission characteristics over many mating cycles, with no cleaning required under normal conditions of 50,000 mating cycles at –65°C to +105°C

Insertion loss

Multimode: < 0.15 dB (typical) / < 0.3 dB (max.)

Singlemode: < 0.35 dB (typical) / < 0.7 dB (max.)

Return loss

Multimode: > 45 dB (typical) / ≥ 35 dB (min.)

Singlemode: > 60 dB (typical) / ≥ 55 dB (min.)

The Expanded Beam Performance ferrules are the heart of the new connectors.

Each ferrule can connect 12 optical fibres via a non-contact lens system.

A space saving cassette arrangement of the ferrules allows the system to be expanded to up to 96 optical fibres.

This has resulted in three new products, in differing configurations:

ODU BACKPLANE

Connects modules to the mission computer and allows them to be quickly replaced. Thanks to Expanded Beam insensitivity to dust and pollution, provides quick and easy maintenance.

In three versions, as defined in upcoming VITA standards:

VITA 96.1 (drop-in replacement for VITA 66.1) – up to 96 fibres

VITA 96.4 (drop-in replacement for VITA 66.4) – up to 48 fibres

VITA 96.5 (drop-in replacement for VITA 66.5) – up to 72 fibres

ODU TACTICS

Combines proven MIL-DTL 38999, Series III connectors with the highly innovative Expanded Beam Performance technology, the VITA 95 interconnect system takes fibre- optic transmission in aircraft to a new level.

Available with Expanded Beam Performance contacts

In four shell sizes:

Shell 11 (25.0mm plug) – up to 24 fibres

Shell 13 (29.4mm plug) – up to 48 fibres

Shell 15 (32.5mm plug) – up to 72 fibres

Shell 17 (35.7mm plug) – up to 96 fibres

• ODU AMC® Series T – Beyond 38999

This alternative to the standardized MIL-DTL-38999 Series lll connector, excels with its innovative 3-in-1 plug locking options of push-pull, snatch or screw-lock onto a common bulkhead. Qualified to 38999 test standards, but with an even smaller footprint.

Available with Expanded Beam Performance contacts

In four space-saving shell sizes:

Shell  9 (18.4mm plug) – up to 24 fibres

Shell 12 (24.9mm plug) – up to 48 fibres

Shell 14 (27.9mm plug) – up to 72 fibres

Shell 16 (30.9mm plug) – up to 96 fibres

So, whether your interest lies in Soldier Systems, C4ISR, Land & Naval Systems or Aerospace, why not drop by – Pod 13, in the Make UK Defence Pavillion, Stand 110 in Hall 4

ODU-UK Ltd                                          tel: 0330 002 0640   

sales@odu-uk.co.uk                            www.odu-connectors.com/uk    

498 words

 Links:

https://www.dsei.co.uk/

https://www.makeuk.org/defence

https://odu-connectors.com/uk/industries/military-security-and-communication/

“Bringing Exception PCB back from Asian into UK ownership strengthens our national manufacturing resilience, and opens new opportunities to innovate, invest, and lead” said Craig Wright, Chairman & CEO at Connexion Technologies. “The business has undergone significant recent investment in its processing technology to place it at the forefront of PCB manufacturing globally and we are proud to support its continued growth”.

By uniting under UK ownership, Connexion Technologies and Exception PCB will strengthen British industry, protect key supply chains, and support skilled jobs across the UK.

For more information, visit: https://www.connexiontechnologies.co.uk/

DSEI brings together global defence leaders, technology innovators, and industry stakeholders, making it the ideal platform for Lane Electronics to introduce its newest franchise—the FIBRECO range of expanded-beam connectors and cable assemblies. Designed for high-performance communication in harsh environments, the FIBRECO range offers flexible, cost-effective solutions for critical defence and aerospace applications.

In addition to the FIBRECO launch, Lane Electronics will feature a wide array of products from its leading global supplier partners, including:

• EATON Souriau: MIL-DTL-38999 connectors and derivatives (JVS, high power, ELIO fibre-optic), micro-38999, 8STA and rectangular microComp connectors.
• Weald Electronics: LMH, LMG, LMF, LMJ and MG circular connectors, and PCB connector solutions such as LM200, LMR, and 801/801CX.
• Huber & Suhner: High-performance RF and microwave connectors and cables.
• Positronic: SCORPION and high-power Goldfish connectors, plus standard, sealed, and combo D-Sub connectors.
• Nicomatic: CMM, DMM, EMM, and AMM high-density rectangular connectors.

Visitors can also explore a wide selection of accessories, including backshells, dust caps, and blanking/shorting covers from Weald Electronics, as well as heatshrink boots and shapes from HellermannTyton.

“We offer one of the most comprehensive connector portfolios for defence and security equipment,” said Nick Wheeler, Sales Director at Lane Electronics. “DSEI is a key event for us, and we’re looking forward to engaging with both longstanding customers and new contacts to discuss the latest technologies and applications.”

As a leading franchised distributor for many of the industry’s major electrical and electronic connector manufacturers, Lane Electronics are the preferred connector source across many industry sectors including defence, avionics, motorsport, marine, communications, medical, test and measurement, general industrial solutions and geophysical. A major source for all key connector types, Lane Electronics has a multi-million-pound connector and piece-part stockholding and can offer next-day delivery.

For more information call +44 (0) 1403 790 661, email sales@fclane.com or visit https://www.fclane.com/

• Black or white housing.
• Space-saving, high packing density.
• Push-pull locking provides haptic & acoustic feedback to indicate successful connection.
• Proven tool-free clip mounting of the existing ODU-MAC Blue-Line.
• Easy to clean.
• 6 coding options.
• Protection class IP66 (with IP67 available in new medical variant).
• 5,000 mating cycles, with the option to record cycles.
• Customized laser marking with logo or code according to the UDI

Large selection of modules

The connector can be equipped with various modules:

• Signals
• High-current & high-voltage
• Coax
• Compressed air & fluid coupling
• Data transmission

The modular design enables its use in many applications, such as test & measurement, robotics, and numerous industrial applications. Whether for power supply or data transmission, this connector is ideally suited, as a versatile interface, for a wide range of requirements.

ODU-MAC^® BLUE-LINE PUSH-LOCK – the ideal basis for your specific configuration of modular, reliable, and future-proof connections.

ODU-UK Ltd                                          tel: 0330 002 0640   

email: sales@odu-uk.co.uk                 web: www.odu-connectors.com/uk      

https://odu-connectors.com/uk/products/modular-connectors/odu-mac-blue-line/odu-mac-push-lock/