Important of Avionic Connectors in Aircraft

In 1929, the Aeronautics Radio Inc (ARINC) was formed to develop standards for avionics. The military also created their own initiatives, the Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) and the Open Systems Architecture (OSA). IMA allows the same part or card to be used between different computer modules and reduces weight and maintenance issues. OSA is a strategy that relies on defined and published standards-based interfaces and module designs. 

Because avionics are constantly evolving and advancing, their connectors need to evolve to meet the increasing demands. Engineers work on increasing efficiency and developing systems that can handle transmitting high-speed data and bandwidth, without increasing weight. One of the main contributors to fuel consumption is weight because it requires more power to get a heavy aircraft lifted. Someone might assume that avionic connectors are small enough that their weight doesn't have a significant impact on the aircrafts total weight— but that's incorrect.

One of the methods used to decrease weight without reducing the ability to meet high speed data requirements is choosing the right materials. Avionics have evolved away from electromechanical components to electronic and digital technologies. Part of the advancements is the use of fiber optic cables and copper. Fiber optics used to be seen as fragile and difficult to use, but today they are known to increase speed and data, reduce weight, and do not require cable shielding.