MacArtney has introduced a new iteration of its SubConn Micro Circular connector, designed to enhance data integrity in demanding subsea environments. The updated connector, a 9-contact variant, maintains the existing physical footprint of the series while incorporating a dedicated shielding contact to minimize signal noise and ensure reliable data transmission. This development addresses a critical need for robust connectivity in compact subsea instruments, particularly those handling bandwidth-intensive applications.
The SubConn Micro Circular series has long been recognized for its durability and performance in harsh underwater conditions. This latest addition builds upon that foundation, specifically targeting the challenges of maintaining signal quality in increasingly sophisticated subsea systems. According to MacArtney, the new connector is fully compatible with existing Micro Circular form factors, allowing system designers to upgrade capabilities without requiring extensive modifications to existing infrastructure.
The core innovation lies in the addition of a dedicated shielding contact. In subsea environments, electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI) can significantly degrade signal quality, leading to data errors or communication failures. The shielding contact provides a dedicated pathway for grounding, effectively diverting unwanted noise away from the signal conductors. This is particularly important as subsea instruments become more complex and integrate a greater number of sensors and data processing capabilities.
Testing conducted by MacArtney has demonstrated the connector’s ability to support stable 1 Gbps data transmission over cable assemblies up to 20 meters in length. This performance level is crucial for applications requiring high-bandwidth data transfer, such as real-time video streaming, high-resolution sonar imaging, and advanced oceanographic data collection. The ability to maintain this level of performance over a practical cable length is a key differentiator for the new connector.
Beyond data integrity, the new SubConn connector also offers robust power delivery capabilities. Each contact is rated for 5 amps, with the connector as a whole capable of handling up to 15 amps. This allows it to reliably power low-power sensor lines and support data communication simultaneously. MacArtney plans to standardize on polyurethane-designed cables for inline versions, further ensuring consistent data-rate performance.
Durability is paramount in subsea applications, and the new connector is designed to withstand extreme conditions. It is wet-mateable, meaning it can be connected and disconnected underwater without compromising its integrity. It has also been pressure-tested to 600 bar, equivalent to the pressure found at depths of approximately 6,000 meters, making it suitable for use in even the deepest ocean environments. The connector’s electrical performance remains stable across a wide temperature range, from -4°C to +60°C, and it is resistant to the effects of varying handling conditions.
MacArtney offers a wide selection of housing materials for the connector, including brass, stainless steel, titanium, and anodized aluminum. This flexibility allows users to select the material best suited to their specific application and platform requirements, optimizing for corrosion resistance, weight, and cost. The choice of materials also ensures compatibility with a diverse range of existing subsea infrastructure.
The target applications for the Data Micro Circular 9-contact connector are diverse, encompassing a wide range of marine technologies. These include oceanographic packages used for studying ocean currents, temperature, and salinity; environmental monitoring systems deployed to assess water quality and pollution levels; autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) used for inspection and exploration; integrated sensor suites that combine multiple sensors into a single package; and multi-parameter survey equipment used for mapping the seafloor and identifying underwater features.
The connector’s combination of shielding, durability, and compatibility with existing systems makes it a valuable addition to the subsea connectivity landscape. By strengthening the signal pathway at the connection point, it helps to ensure the reliability and accuracy of data collected in challenging underwater environments. This is particularly important as the demand for high-quality subsea data continues to grow, driven by advancements in oceanographic research, offshore energy exploration, and marine conservation efforts. The new SubConn connector represents a significant step forward in enabling these advancements.
The introduction of this connector, announced on , underscores MacArtney’s commitment to providing innovative connectivity solutions for the subsea industry. The company’s focus on data integrity and robust design positions it as a key player in the development of next-generation subsea technologies.
