Only Connect: On Amphenol’s 2M Micro connectors

Welcome to another in the series by Nick Locke, of Nicab Ltd, who has more than 20 years experience in the electronics manufacturing industry specialising in interconnection cable assembly. This post looks at Amphenol’s new 2M Micro connectors.

For those of you who are familiar with the Mill Spec MIL-DTL-38999 Series of connectors, you’ll know they remain widely popular and although initially introduced in the 1930’s their simple design has stood the test of time.

I have always believed that good designs stick around and if things work then why over-engineer improvements? That said, I also appreciate that innovation drives change and this week, I want to introduce you to Amphenol’s micro miniature 2M connector series which bases their design on the MIL-DTL-38999 system and is fully compatible with Glenair’s Mighty Mouse connector series.

According to Amphenol:

“2M Micro Connectors are ideal for military and aerospace applications requiring smaller, faster and stronger connectors such as armoured vehicles, data acquisition equipment, aero planes, helicopters, avionic calculators, missiles and drones for which electrical performance and miniaturization are essential.

Available in Aluminium, the 2M connectors are near half of size and weight than standard military connectors. Featuring nine arrangements and three different plating (olive drab cadmium, black zinc nickel and electroless nickel), Amphenol Socapex will provide the most common configuration including plugs, jam nut and square flange receptacles, both with integrated backshells or also receptacles for soldering version on PCB and stand-off version. Obviously all corresponding accessories are also available as caps, shrink boots or tools.

Amphenol Socapex’s main goal is its customers’ satisfaction. The company has selected over 600 “Top Runner” references including the 2M805 Tri-start and 2M801 Dual-start series and plans to provide the same services and lead time as the standard MIL-DTL-38999 series for its customers in Europe”.

Available from 2 to 130 position contacts this small lightweight connector is ideal for Aerospace and High performance Automotive where space and weigh is a premium.

This connector series also enables designers to create or develop existing products where smaller foot prints are required without comprising on quality and durability. I recommend taking a close look at these simple but powerful connectors!

Image: Amphenol

Nick Locke, Nicab Ltd