Push-Pull Self-Locking Connectors in a Field-Deployable Military Rugged Computer — MOCO Application Case

1. Project Background & Requirements

A defense manufacturer developed a new field-deployable rugged computer that must operate under extreme environmental and mechanical stress. The system interfaces with multiple peripherals — tactical radios, data-acquisition modules, displays, power supplies, and USB/HD video devices — where connector reliability directly affects mission success.

The project team defined strict connector requirements:

• High mechanical durability for frequent connect/disconnect cycles.

• High ingress protection (IP68) to resist water, dust and contaminants.

• Fast, tool-less push-pull mating for quick deployment and rapid extraction.

• Robust electromagnetic shielding to preserve signal integrity in EMI-rich environments.

• Wide operating temperature range: -55°C to +125°C.

2. Solution & Product Selection

After evaluation, MOCO push-pull self-locking connectors were selected. The chosen series features a metal shell, multi-pin density (2–32 contacts), blind-mate capability, and materials qualified for military use. Key features are summarized below.

Material choices reinforce reliability: brass gold-plated contacts for corrosion resistance and excellent conductivity, and high-performance insulators (PPS/PEKK) for flame resistance and dimensional stability. Multi-keyed polarization and a half-round guide system prevent incorrect mating.

3. System Integration & Implementation

3.1 Interface Design

MOCO connectors were applied to the following host computer interfaces:

• Power input (28 VDC)

• Gigabit Ethernet

• HDMI (video output)

• USB 3.0 data

• Proprietary military comms interfaces

All panel connectors use nut retention and conductive O-rings to maintain both mechanical security and RF/EMC seal continuity. Panel-mounted sockets simplify chassis integration and allow sealed operation at immersion depths of 2 meters for 24 hours during environmental validation.

3.2 Cable Assembly

Cable assemblies use soldered wire terminations at plug ends with optional PCB solder tails at receptacles. Assemblies include braided metal shields and outer protective jackets for mechanical and EMI resilience. Each harness passed mechanical stress, electrical performance, and environmental qualification tests to meet military standards expected by the program team.

3.3 Rapid Deployment & Usability

The push-pull self-locking mechanism enables rapid mating with a single push; a light pull on the lock ring releases the connector. Blind-mate capability and keyed positions reduce training time and minimize connection errors in low-visibility operations, such as night-time or confined-space setups.

4. Results & Benefits

Field integration of MOCO push-pull self-locking connectors produced clear operational benefits:

• Increased system reliability: No observed intermittent disconnects under vibration and shock tests.

• Operational readiness: Fast tool-less connections reduced setup and teardown times.

• Lower lifecycle cost: 5000+ mating cycles and robust environmental sealing reduced maintenance and replacements.

• Improved EMI immunity: 360° shielding maintained data integrity for high-speed interfaces.

The solution is extensible: the same connector family can be used across communication equipment, reconnaissance sensors, field medical devices, and unmanned platforms to standardize logistics and spare-part inventories.

5. Conclusion

MOCO push-pull self-locking connectors demonstrated that a thoughtfully chosen connector architecture can meet the stringent demands of modern military systems. By combining high mechanical durability, IP68 protection, wide temperature tolerance, and full EMC shielding in a compact, blind-mate package, this connector family supports reliable, fast, and maintainable field-deployable rugged computers.

For defense integrators seeking to improve system robustness and reduce lifecycle costs while simplifying field operations, adopting high-performance push-pull self-locking connectors is a practical and effective path.

Technical Specifications & Contact

For detailed datasheets, custom pinouts, or cable-assembly quotes, contact MOCO technical sales. Specify required pin count, keying, and environmental options for a tailored recommendation.