Using a connector set that hasn’t been tested for mechanical shock and vibration is like getting a tattoo on your face while jumping on a trampoline; probably isn’t a good choice.
Ok, maybe you are thinking, “I’m an engineer, and everyone knows engineers don’t get tattoos.” Well if you can’t relate with that, then maybe you can relate with needing a connector set that can withstand rough handling, transportation, and conditions that aren’t static.
What Are We Measuring?
Mechanical shock and vibration tests the ability of a connector to withstand a series of mechanical shocks and random vibrations.
This test is completed in all three axis of the product (x, y, and z).
Low level circuit resistance (LLCR) is used to check the system before and after to gauge the effects of the test. If you aren’t familiar with LLCR then make sure to check out the blog on it here.
In order to test the connectors for their ability to withstand vibration, Samtec uses EIA-364-28 “Vibration Test Procedure for Electrical Connectors and Sockets.”
This standard calls for connectors to be exposed to 7.65 gRMS random vibration. Sinusoidal vibration can also be ran.
Samtec uses the standard EIA-364-24 “Mechanical Shock (Specified Pulse) Test Procedure for Electrical Connectors and Sockets” as the test for mechanical shock. The standard calls for a shock of 100g, 6msec, half-sine.
Why is the Mechanical Shock and Vibration Test Important?
Regardless if your system is going into an environment where mechanical shock and vibration are a common occurrence, you are going to want it to handle the unexpected bump and continue to perform.
With all of Samtec’s connectors you can ensure that your system will continue to function as designed even when under shock and vibration.
After all, no system goes without these stresses being placed on it at one point in its operation, and you don’t want to look like the system designer who got a face tattoo while jumping on a trampoline.
Samtec publishes all of its reports on www.samtec.com and can be found according to the series pages.
To see the qualification test report that includes Mechanical Shock and Vibration test results for the SEAM/SEAF series please click here, or type in the series name of the part you are interested in on samtec.com.
