FCI has developed a more advanced version of its AirMax VS (virtual shield) connector system that utilizes an innovative shield-less connector design. Fully compliant with the IEEE 802.3ap standard, the AirMax VS2 delivers better signal integrity (SI) performance than the AirMax VS connector with higher data rates of up to 14Gb/s. The advanced AirMax VS2 package design improves structural integrity and is optimized for use with today’s automated assembly manufacturing processes.  FCI is a leading manufacturer of connectors and interconnect systems.

The AirMax VS2 features a curved beam contact structure that provides two points of contact on one side of each header beam, improving signal-to-noise performance, mechanical rigidity and eye-of-needle (EON) true position. The shield-less connector (no metallic plates), with its closely edge-coupled differential pairs design, yields low loss and crosstalk.  

The AirMax VS2 has an identical footprint to AirMax VS connectors, making it compatible with existing board layouts. The open pin field design preserves critical pin assignments in existing AirMax VS designs, providing opportunities for cost savings as new or upgraded equipment is deployed.

“For example, a backplane or chassis can be designed to allow the installation and continued use of legacy daughter cards, line cards, or blades that are already in the field as well as new or future higher speed module cards,” said Fred Gilbert, director of high speed, backplane and mezzanine products at FCI. “We have also engineered the AirMax VS2 to minimize manufacturing cost by applying best cost practices in materials and processes.”

AirMax VS2 connectors are available in three pair versions, with four and five pair versions available by end-of-year.