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Various AirBorn RocKet Macro-D Connectors.

AirBorn RocKet Macro-D Connectors

Rugged, high-density AirBorn RocKet Macro-D Connectors provide up to 150 contacts in a small form factor that saves up to 50% of space compared with MIL-DTL-38999 circular connectors. This compact design supports aerospace, defense, industrial, energy and transportation applications that are subject to stringent size and weight constraints. Crimp-removable, tension-based contacts ensure exceptional reliability in high-shock and high-vibration environments, while multiple backshell options and current ratings from 3.0 to 42.0A enable flexible combinations of power and signal connections.

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Features and Benefits

In compact aerospace and defense applications, interconnects must maximize signal and power circuit density to meet strict size and weight constraints. These solutions must also ensure exceptional reliability and consistent electrical connectivity despite vibration, shock and extreme temperatures.

AirBorn RocKet Macro-D Connectors address this need by providing a rugged, high-density, rectangular interface that saves up to 50% of space compared with traditional MIL-DTL-38999 circular connectors. Two-, three-, four- and six-row models deliver a wide range of contact sizes and offer circuits of 3.0 to 42.0A capacity, supporting a variety of power and signal applications. Crimp-removable, customer-terminated contacts simplify maintenance, installation and upgrades, while the tension-based contact system ensures ultra reliable electrical connections for crucial systems despite shock, vibration and extreme temperature cycles. Offering spaceflight heritage and multiple backshell options to simplify system integration, AirBorn RocKet connectors help maximize space efficiency and reduce weight in a variety of aerospace, defense and industrial applications.

High-Density, Space-Saving Design

The compact design with increased contact density of the AirBorn RocKet connector fits more power and signal contacts into a compact footprint when compared with MIL-DTL-38999 circular connectors. This reduces overall system size and weight, making it ideal for 38999 replacement applications.

Comparison photo showing three 150-position AirBorn RocKet connectors in the space of a single 151-position MIL-DTL-38999 circular connector with a shell size 23.

Crimp-Removable, Customer-Terminated Contacts

Users can install and remove contacts multiple times by utilizing insertion/removal tools. This simplifies field assembly and maintenance, reduces downtime and labor costs, and enables flexible system upgrades and rapid prototyping.

AirBorn RocKet Macro-D Connector highlighting crimp-removable contact.

Ultra Reliable Contact System

The proven contact system provides nearly 360 degrees of tension-based contact between the pin and receptacle, ensuring consistent electrical performance and preventing connection failures in high-shock and high-vibration environments in spaceflight, rail, industrial automation and heavy equipment applications.

AirBorn RocKet Macro-D Connector RK2 contact system.

Offers durability and reliable performance for high-demand industries
The panel-mountable body is designed for rugged reliability, helping reduce the chance of failures in demanding environments.

Provides cable management flexibility
A wide array of backshell variants includes vertical, 45-degree, right-angle and lace-wiring options, reducing design constraints.

Supports a variety of power and signal applications
Multiple contact sizes are available, including 8 AWG (42.0A), 16 AWG (13.0A), 20 AWG (5.0A) and 24 AWG (3.0A) wires, streamlining design work and simplifying the bill of materials.

Performs reliably in extreme temperatures
The operating temperature range of -65 to +125°C, with a test voltage rating of 750V AC (RMS) at sea level or 250V AC (RMS) at 70,000′ (21.3km), supports a wide range of challenging aerospace, high-altitude and industrial applications.

Enables use with satellite, launch and commercial-aircraft platforms
The proven AirBorn RocKet connector system is qualified for aerospace use and has spaceflight heritage, reducing risks in high-performance applications.

Enhances supply chain resilience
Manufacturing within the US minimizes supply chain risks and improves quality control.

Datasheets and Guides

Applications by Industry

Avionics
Head-up displays
Satellites

Communications systems
Ground vehicles
Radar systems

Oil and gas downhole drilling

This is not a definitive list of applications for this product. It represents some of the more common uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are AirBorn RocKet Macro-D Connectors?

AirBorn RocKet Macro-D Connectors are rugged, high-density, connectors for power and signal applications. They employ a more compact form factor than MIL-DTL-38999 circular connectors and feature crimp-removable contacts, a tension-based contact system and flexible backshell options.

What circuit counts (contact counts) and sizes are available?

AirBorn RocKet connectors are available with eight to 150 contacts in two-, three-, four- and six-row configurations, supporting 8 AWG (42.0A), 16 AWG (13.0A), 20 AWG (5.0A) and 24 AWG (3.0A) contact sizes.

How do AirBorn RocKet connectors save space compared to circular connectors?

Three 150-contact AirBorn RocKet connectors fit into the same footprint as one 151-contact MIL-DTL-38999 circular connector (shell size 23), nearly tripling the contact density and permitting higher circuit counts within a compact space.

What makes the AirBorn RocKet contact system ultra reliable?

The contact system ensures nearly 360 degrees of tension-based contact between the pin and receptacle, helping maintain consistent electrical integrity even in applications subject to vibration, shock and extreme temperatures.

Can AirBorn RocKet connectors be field terminated or repaired?

Yes, crimp-removable contacts allow for field installation and removal through the use of standard insertion/removal tools.

What backshell options are available?

A full range of backshell options are offered to enhance cable management, including vertical, 45-degree, right-angle and lace-wiring versions.

Are AirBorn RocKet connectors panel mountable?

Yes, versions are available for rugged and secure panel-mount installation.

What are the environmental specifications?

AirBorn RocKet connectors are rated for operating temperatures from -65 to +125°C, with a test voltage of up to 750V AC (RMS) at sea level or up to 250V AC (RMS) at 70,000′ (21.3km).

Are AirBorn RocKet connectors suitable for both power and signal applications?

Yes, multiple contact sizes support both signal and high-current power needs.