High signal integrity

We optimize signal integrity through simulations and measurements. Achieve high signal integrity with innovative products and comprehensive design-in support.
Employee with data connector for Industry 4.0

Get to know our experts for signal integrity

Our specialists and engineers at Phoenix Contact work day in and day out to optimize data connectors for Industry 4.0. Preferably in direct dialog with you. We are introducing you to the makers of optimized signal integrity and how they work on it every day.

Arndt Schafmeister, Developer at Phoenix Contact

Arndt Schafmeister Development Engineer at Phoenix Contact

“My task is to develop board-to-board connectors. As a part of this, I have to match the electromechanical requirements with the requirements of the target application in the best possible way. The focus is therefore not on signal integrity at any price, but on application-oriented connectors that take into account other requirements such as costs, installation space, and manufacturability.

I therefore provide our customers with support in selecting the most suitable connector. And I advise them on how to optimally integrate this connection into the respective system.”

Sebastian Stamm, Developer at Phoenix Contact

Sebastian Stamm Development Engineer at Phoenix Contact

“My work is focused on the interface of mechanical and electrical development of data connectors. My activities include concept development and the optimization of connectors with high signal integrity as well as the simulation and measurement of transmission characteristics and their alignment with normative requirements.”

Interview with our makers

Employees with products for signal integrity

White paper on signal integrity

Read the white paper to find out what role signal integrity plays in performance and what factors influence connector impedance.

How we optimize signal integrity in practice


Sebastian Stamm, Development Engineer at Phoenix Contact, shows a data curve

Industry 4.0 requires networked devices, which also means more interfaces

The demands on connection technology performance are constantly increasing. With the steady increase in the networking of modern devices, the number of interfaces is also growing. The goal is to achieve data transmission that is impaired as little as possible. This depends to a large extent on the interaction of all cables and connector components.

One connector property that is directly related to signal integrity is impedance. The target impedance of a connector depends on the transmission technology of the connector application. Deviations from the target impedance reflect the data signal back to the transmitter. If the reflections become too high, the reflected and transmitted signals overlap. This results in impaired data transmission. Arndt Schafmeister and Sebastian Stamm’s task is to prevent just that.

Connector held in hands

The connector impedance depends on a variety of factors

The impedance of a connector is influenced by factors such as material selection, geometry, and the arrangement of the signal-routing components. An additional factor is the frequency, i.e., the level transition time of the transmission technology used. This depends on the application and cannot be influenced by the manufacturer of the connector.

With regard to connector impedance, it is hardly possible to make generally valid statements about the best geometry, materials, or component arrangements, since in principle the nominal impedances of the transmission technologies and the level transition times must also be taken into account. What is advantageous for the design of a Single Pair Ethernet connector can be a knock-out criterion in the field of board-to-board connectors.

Practically perfect data transmission is the be-all and end-all of Industry 4.0. Are you aware of your untapped potential?

Arndt Schafmeister, Development Engineer
Arndt Schafmeister, Development Engineer at Phoenix Contact
Design-in support work on a computer

Individual support for optimized solutions and products

Based on the values you provide, we perform simulations and derive suggestions for suitable item combinations and contact assignments. We will inform you about the results, answer your questions, and provide you with appropriate documentation afterwards.

These individual simulations can usually be realized within a few days. To do so, our engineers need information on the your application, for example the arrangement of the printed circuit boards in the device, the type of data transmission, or the target impedance of the system. The board-to-board connectors offer a high degree of flexibility, particularly in terms of PCB arrangements. This allows mezzanine, coplanar, and backplane arrangements with different PCB spacing, as well as connections with pre-assembled ribbon cables.

Direct exchange is particularly important to us. This has led to unexpected optimization potential for signal integrity repeatedly in past projects, for example through an alternative contact assignment or the use of shielded connectors. We will be happy to support you in the development of your devices.

Contact us
Create your individual simulation with us

Ask us for your individual simulation if a suitable standard does not exist. We have already been able to support a large number of customers and place the appropriate connectors in their applications. Feel free to contact us.

Request a simulation now
Arndt Schafmeister in the Phoenix Contact laboratory
Data connectivity visual

First-class data connections for smart networks

Phoenix Contact is your key partner for reliable data connections. Use reliable data connectors for the future-proof networking of all communication devices.