Unmanned systems, partially operating autonomously, are deployed in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas. Applications include disaster response, mine clearance, mining, as well as maritime operations on unmanned sea platforms or surveillance boats. These missions require secure high-frequency and optical data connections, signal connectivity, and reliable power delivery that functions flawlessly under all conditions.

The systems operate worldwide in diverse environments, including high humidity, saltwater, dust, dirt, liquids, and extreme temperatures. Connectors must therefore be especially robust, vibration- and shock-resistant. On land or in the field, they must also withstand impacts, shocks, and electromagnetic interference while maintaining reliable performance over long operational periods.

Unmanned systems often integrate large amounts of technology in very compact spaces, making space- and weight-saving connectors particularly important. Amphenol provides high-performance solutions designed to meet the demanding requirements of both land and sea unmanned systems.

Whether the control units are located in a command station or integrated as onboard computers for autonomous movement, precise positioning is required, along with, in most cases, continuous connectivity to the command station.

Various technologies are used for navigation, control, and data transmission, including radio links, radar, GNSS (e.g., GPS), satellite communications, cameras, acoustic systems, environmental sensors (e.g., barometers), antenna systems, digital data links, and laser modules for distance measurement or target acquisition.

Regardless of the transmission technology—whether via electrical wiring or optical fibers—we provide the appropriate interconnect solution.

Robotic arms, winches, or weapon systems mounted on unmanned systems must be reliably supplied with power and signals while simultaneously transmitting data back to the onboard electronics.

Rotating turrets, moving arms, and other mechanically stressed subsystems place particularly high demands on all installed components. Connectors must therefore be vibration- and shock-resistant, durable, and reliable to ensure stable connections even under constant mechanical load.

Amphenol provides specially engineered connector solutions designed to meet these requirements, ensuring reliable power, signal, and data transmission even in highly stressed, movable subsystems.

Unmanned system drives can use either combustion engines or electric systems—such as battery packs, rechargeable cells, or solar modules—to provide mobility and power.

Batteries and their chargers are frequently connected and disconnected, while a large amount of technology in often confined and hard-to-access spaces must be reliably powered.

Power distribution systems must therefore be designed to be flexible, compact, and space-efficient to fit within these limited installation areas. At the same time, connectors must handle high currents, be vibration- and shock-resistant, and provide reliable electrical and data connections.

Amphenol provides connector solutions that meet these requirements, offering high mating cycles and fast locking mechanisms for dependable operation.