Connector developments for rail applications on show at Infrarail 2008

These new products have been developed to address the challenges presented by the fact that rolling stock is carrying an increasing amount of electrical and electronic equipment resulting from the combination of new passenger information and entertainment systems, safety equipment, heating and air conditioning and on-board computers.

To meet the requirements for new rugged networked devices on board rail vehicles, HARTING has introduced a low-profile unmanaged 8-Port Ethernet switch, the eCon 4080-B1, which features a high degree of mechanical integrity. The new switch features an extended operating temperature range (-40°C to +70°C), and incorporates vibration-proof M12 connectors for power supply and Ethernet interfaces. The D-coded M12 Ethernet interfaces are implemented in easy-fastening quick connection system technology. Diagnostic LEDs on the switch front provide clear indication of the signal state, even when all the ports are occupied. The eCon 4080-B1 is suited to direct wall mounting or rail mounting.

Also featured by HARTING is the M12 connector in crimp format, which combines a compact footprint and ease of handling and is being widely adopted by the rail industry. This new connector type can be assembled using standard tools and contacts.

HARTING is also demonstrating its comprehensive range of industrial connector hoods and housings which, in combination with cable assemblies, can form the basis of inter-car jumpers that can easily be connected and disconnected when vehicles are coupled or uncoupled. The resulting assemblies are rated at IP 68 for resistance against moisture ingress. The modular connector inserts offer a combination of configuration for signal, power and even fibre-optic transmission.

The HARTING Technology Group was the first company worldwide to receive quality certification to the IRIS international quality standard for the railway industry. IRIS - International Railway Industry Standard - was created by UNIFE (the European association of the railway industry), and combines the quality requirements of ISO 9001 with the additional requirements of the railway industry. HARTING has been a member of the IRIS steering committee right from the start, and is actively involved in the definition of the new quality standard for the suppliers in the rail industry.