Contactless Connectivity: A Rival of Mechanical Connectors?

Traditional mechanical connectors are now facing a rival in both form and function. Contactless connectivity solutions are cable-free, solid-state devices that enable the wireless transfer of data between devices in close proximity. Rather than using cables and mechanical connectors to bridge the gap, contactless solutions utilize high-speed mmWave RF transceivers and antennas to send and receive signals.  

Contactless connectivity solutions are just beginning to hit the market but are already proving to be viable alternatives to mechanical connectors in a wide range of applications. What’s causing their growing popularity among design engineers? 

Not all contactless connectivity is created equal. Like their mechanical counterparts, contactless connectors can operate in three transmission modes — each with their own unique purpose and benefit.  

Simplex connectivity only transmits data in one direction. Data can flow from one device to another, but not vice versa. Simplex connectors are often utilized for unidirectional applications where input is one way, such as a keyboard sending a signal to a computer. 

Half-duplex connectivity transmits data in both directions, but not at the same time. Some example applications include wireless docks for laptops and peripheral devices or the connection of individual monitors on video walls. 

Full-duplex connectivity enables simultaneous data transmission between two devices, improving efficiency and reducing latency. Today, full-duplex functionality can be achieved using two pairs of certain half-duplex devices, such as Molex’s MX60 USB SuperSpeed Contactless Connectivity Solutions. Future full-duplex solutions will house the RF transceiver and antennas in a single package, allowing the use of only one pair of devices. 

Contactless connectivity is emerging to support many of today’s most popular communication protocols, such as USB SuperSpeed, Gigabit Ethernet and DisplayPort. Here are a few reasons designers should be considering contactless alternatives to mechanical connectors. 

Similar speeds
It isn’t enough to simply communicate at a specific protocol, contactless connectivity solutions must perform similarly to their traditional counterparts. For instance, Molex’s MX60 SuperSpeed solution can transmit at 5 Gbps when operating in full-duplex mode with two pairs and 10 Gbps when operating with four pairs, which is ideal for applications like docking stations, ruggedized laptops, AR/VR devices and factory automation. Between 2025 and 2028, we predict that the available speeds of contactless connectivity will more than double, significantly expanding the types of suitable applications.   

Sleeker designs 
Contactless connectivity eliminates the need to make space for mechanical connectors, enabling sleeker and more aesthetically pleasing designs. For instance, foldable displays can eliminate the hinge or border used to hide the cable and connector. Designers can minimize the wiring necessary to support audio and video processing within AR/VR devices, reducing headset bulkiness and weight. And docking stations can take up less space on the desk by allowing laptops and peripheral devices to easily connect. 

Superior ruggedization 
Contactless connectivity solutions are ideal for harsh environments as they enable completely sealed product designs, minimizing potential damage caused by dust, dirt and moisture. Furthermore, the lack of cables and mechanical connectors eliminates wear caused by vibration, repetitive motion and repeated connections. Devices will no longer require diagnostic ports which are particularly vulnerable to environmental conditions that can impact durability. 

Improved manufacturability, configurability and testability
Removing diagnostic ports not only protects from ingress but also reduces the time to manufacture, configure and test products. Factory automation systems can immediately connect with, evaluate, diagnose and patch devices without the need for manual intervention or mechanical connection.  

Increased convenience and user experience
For both the design engineer and the end user, contactless solutions can simply be more convenient than other interconnect solutions. Designers can use contactless connectivity to replace other high-speed I/O or flex-to-board solutions. End users can more quickly set up systems and devices and avoid the need to connect or hide cables. 

But power is a requirement 
Although the advantages are numerous, contactless connectivity does have a downside. Unlike traditional connectors, contactless solutions do consume power. As a result, solutions like the MX60 series are being designed to consume only milliwatts. 

Contactless connectivity is primed to play a dominant role in both current and emerging applications, especially those involving harsh environments. Here are a few examples: 

Video displays can be easily arranged by simply placing screens alongside each other, allowing signals to be sent and received between displays. The added durability is ideal for outdoor applications. 

Ruggedized networking equipment such as waterproof networking adapters will be capable of withstanding the elements due to minimal risk of ingress, also ensuring system uptime with reduced risk of failure from extended exposure to rain and snow. 

Industrial robots will minimize wear by replacing mechanical connectors with contactless solutions, especially in areas exposed to motion and ingress, such as rotating arms. Cables and connectors will not be subject to repetitive bending motions that eventually cause breakage.

Consumer electronics such as smartwatches and smartphones can grow lighter, smaller and sleeker while improving durability and resistance to environmental conditions. 

Medical technology such as sterilization devices can reduce the risk of exposing sensitive electronic systems to harsh chemicals, heat and vibration. 

Self-driving vehicles can utilize contactless solutions to communicate between systems, reducing weight and simplifying the wire harness. 

Molex is a leader in mmWave antenna design, signal integrity and volume manufacturing, proven by its recent release of the MX60 series of contactless connectivity solutions. The first models in the MX60 series replace traditional USB SuperSpeed, DisplayPort and Gigabit Ethernet connectors, and a solution for USB2 and other low-speed interfaces is currently in development. What will the future of contactless connectivity bring? The potential for contactless connectivity is endless and will enable product designs and functionality not yet envisioned.

To learn more about contactless solutions and other ways Molex is advancing connectivity to new heights, check out our latest report, Predicting the Connectivity of Tomorrow: Innovations Driving the Connected World.