Requirements for Connectors in Modular Phones

Time：2025-07-23 Views：1 source:

Modular phones, designed with interchangeable components (e.g., cameras, batteries, processors), impose unique requirements on connectors to ensure functionality, reliability, and user-friendliness. One key requirement is high mechanical robustness, as connectors must withstand frequent module swaps (user-initiated or during maintenance) without degradation. They need to endure 1000+ mating cycles, requiring durable materials like stainless steel housings and gold-plated contacts to resist wear and corrosion.

Electrical performance is critical, with connectors needing to support high-speed data transfer (e.g., USB 3.2, Thunderbolt) for modules like cameras or displays, which demand bandwidths up to 40 Gbps. Low contact resistance (typically <50 mΩ) ensures efficient power delivery, especially for battery modules that may require currents up to 5A for fast charging. Signal integrity is essential to prevent data loss or interference, requiring controlled impedance designs and shielding against electromagnetic interference (EMI) from other phone components.

Compact size is a priority, as modular phones aim to balance functionality with portability. Connectors must occupy minimal space while accommodating multiple pins (often 10–50) for power, data, and control signals. This drives the use of miniaturized designs like board-to-board connectors or pogo pins with small form factors (diameters <2mm).

Water and dust resistance (at least IP54, preferably IP67) is increasingly required, as modular phones are used in various environments. Sealing techniques such as gaskets or O-rings integrated into the connector housing prevent ingress, protecting internal components from damage.

User-centric features include easy mating/unmating with clear tactile feedback to indicate secure connection, reducing the risk of improper assembly. Additionally, modular connectors must support hot-swapping (changing modules without powering off the phone) where applicable, requiring designs that prevent short circuits during connection and ensure safe power transfer.

cost-effectiveness is important for mass-market modular phones, balancing high performance with affordable manufacturing. This may involve using standardized connector interfaces to reduce development costs while ensuring compatibility across different module generations.