Custom connector designs often start as niche products with limited applications but can evolve into popular proprietary connectors over time. Initially designed and manufactured by a single source, proprietary connectors can become lucrative if widely adopted.
For example, Custom Interconnects' Fuzz Buttons and Bel Magnetic Solutions' Cinch CIN::APSE connectors represent proprietary compression interfaces intended to connect two parallel conductive surfaces. The Fuzz Buttons are used in applications requiring high-frequency RF signal capability and excellent signal integrity, while the Cinch CIN::APSE connector employs spring-like contacts that establish durable electrical connections through mechanical pressure.
Some proprietary interfaces initially linked to specific applications may transition to widely used commercial products. Notable examples include ITT Cannon’s 25-pin D-sub connector, originally developed for military aviation systems, and now common in various low-cost commercial applications.
Similarly, Amphenol’s Centronics Micro Ribbon interface, initially designed for telecommunications, became a standard I/O connector for printers. Other connectors, such as Stewart Connector’s Qwik RJ45™ CAT6/CAT5E modular plugs, simplify assembly compared to traditional RJ45 connectors, finding applications in data, telecom, and industrial equipment.
Proprietary connectors, while offering unique benefits, can create dependency risks for manufacturers. To mitigate these risks, some manufacturers opt to license their designs to competitive second sources, ensuring competitive pricing and reliable supply. For instance, Apple’s Lightning connector is licensed to other vendors under specific terms, allowing for compatible connectors while maintaining control over accessory pricing.
As the market for connectors evolves, with growing demands for fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory licensing, manufacturers are increasingly adopting open standards and collaborative approaches, such as those promoted by organizations like the USB Implementers Forum and the Open Compute Project. This shift reflects a broader trend towards open-source hardware, balancing innovation with accessibility and interoperability in today’s competitive market.
