ERNI Electronics Expands its High-Speed Portfolio

ERmet ZDHD connectors enable data rates up to 25Gbps

Adelberg/Germany, May 02, 2011 - With the new ERmet ZDHD family, ERNI Electronics has developed a high-speed connector system, which is designed for data rates of up to 25 Gbps. In developing the new family, ERNI leveraged from its comprehensive expertise from the proven ERmet ZD family and the ERmet ZDplus connector system, a layout-compatible enhancement of ERmet ZD. In the case of the ZDHD components, HD stands for high density, as the new high-speed connectors offer 84 differential signal pairs per inch, whereas predecessor families only provided 40 pairs/inch. With this development, ERNI is addressing the needs of the industry for ever-higher signal density coupled with maximum performance.   ERmet ZDplus is based on the same mechanical design as the proven ERmet ZD, launched onto the market by ERNI Electronics together with Tyco back in 2001, with the same dimensions. To achieve even higher data rates of up to 15Gbps and to improve the crosstalk behaviour, ERNI Electronics has further optimised the signal routing and the press-fit termination of the female connectors. As the first product of the ERmet ZDplus family, an angled female connector in press-fit technology in the 4 pair configuration has been introduced. The ERmet ZDplus female connector is mating compatible with the ERmet ZD male connector. This means that existing backplane designs do not require any changes to the layout on the backplane side if the system is to be upgraded to the new connector. High-density extension Many telecom/datacom manufacturers not only request ever-higher data rates but also a higher signal density with 80 differential signal pairs/inch. The new ERmet ZD/HD system caters to these requirements and offers 14 contact rows/inch (25.4 mm) with six differential signal pairs per row. Using ERmet ZDHD connectors, data rates of up to 25Gbps are possible. To this end, 84 signal pairs per inch for right-angle PCB applications are available. To achieve this high signal density, the pitch has been reduced between the rows to 1.8mm and the pitch between the differential pairs within a row to 3.6mm. The basis for this is provided by a miniaturised press-fit technology with a hole diameter of just 0.46mm. Robust alignment guides on the walls of the male connectors also ensure reliable mating. The ERmet ZD/HD connectors are initially available as 6-pair versions, with 2 and 4-pair versions being planned.

ERNI Electronics GmbH ERNI Electronics GmbH, which is a part of the ERNI International AG international company group, was established in 1956 and has its headquarters in Adelberg, Germany. ERNI develops and manufactures a wide range of connectors, backplanes and complete systems, soldering assemblies and prepared cables. ERNI operates on a worldwide basis, with branches in Europe, North America and Asia. More information can be found at www.erni.com