Smarter Farming Starts with Smarter Connections: How Advanced Connectors Power Precision Agriculture

AI, IoT, and other smart technologies have created a connected farming ecosystem. OEMs are equipping modern agricultural machinery with machine vision, GPS guidance, LiDAR, and high-resolution camera systems to deliver sustainable agricultural operations with higher yields. Advanced connector solutions play a crucial role in transforming traditional farming practices into intelligent, data-driven operations.

RUGGED CONNECTOR SOLUTIONS ARE HELPING OEMS TRANSFORM TRADITIONAL AGRICULTURE INTO EFFICIENT, INTELLIGENT OPERATIONS

From autonomous tractors and robotic harvesters to precision crop dusters and drone monitoring, the latest agriculture revolution is driving more efficient practices that help address labor shortages and environmental concerns. Real-time data collection and analysis support regenerative practices that optimize soil health, reduce chemical inputs, and maximize crop production. Here are a few examples of smart farming technologies:

Ag Applications

Machine Vision

Using advanced high-speed cameras, machine vision systems can identify:

• weeds vs crops for precise application of pesticides or fertilizers
• ripe vs unripe crops for picking, sorting, and grading produce for quality and market suitability
• crop health, growth patterns, and potential stress factors, helping farmers make data-driven decisions.

GPS Guidance

Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System/Global Positioning System (RTK-GNSS/GPS) is an advanced satellite navigation technique that delivers highly accurate positioning. RTK-GNSS/GPS enables:

• automatic steering of tractors, combines, and other agricultural machinery, allowing for more precise navigation to specific field locations
• optimize equipment utilization, reducing fuel costs, and improving field efficiency
• minimizes inputs like water, fertilizers, and pesticides through more precise application
• track cattle location, health, and activity

LiDAR

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology has evolved from a supporting role to a driving force in agricultural applications. This sensor technology helps:

• autonomous vehicles and drones navigate via rapid and accurate 3D mapping and object recognition for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)

Agriculture Connector Requirements

Connectors used in traditional and modern farming equipment must be rugged and durable, capable of withstanding the toughest field conditions. They must deliver reliable electrical performance to ensure stable signal and /or power transmission in environments with constant vibration, high temperatures, humidity, dust, dirt, and moisture. While high-tech systems like GPS guidance and LiDAR are often housed in hermetically sealed enclosures to protect against the elements, vibration remains a significant challenge.

Connector versatility is key. Connectors must support diverse connection types for signal and data, making them compatible with a wide range of agricultural systems. ISOBUS, also known as ISO 11783, is the primary communication protocol used in modern tractors and farming equipment. This standardized international protocol allows different agricultural machines to communicate with each other using a common language, regardless of the manufacturer.

Ease of uses crucial. Tool-free locking mechanisms and flexible mounting options simplify assembly, reducing both time and cost.

Meeting these requirements enables advanced agricultural technologies, such as automated irrigation, precision spraying, and agricultural robots, to operate efficiently and reliably.

Solutions

Micro Coaxial

Micro coaxial connectors, like the U.FL-K Series, combine small size with high-frequency capability and low signal loss, making them well suited for RTK-GNSS/GPS applications. The U.FL-K is also highly durable, reliable, and robust against vibration and other harsh environmental conditions.

Circular

The HR34B Series circular connector is good for RTK-GNSS/GPS applications due to its compact size and robust construction. It's ideal for space-constrained agricultural equipment and can withstand vibrations and impacts common in farming operations. Designed for durability against dirt, water, oils, and other agricultural chemicals, the HR34B Series circular connector is rated for IP67/IP68 protection when fully mated, ensuring long-term, reliable performance in harsh agricultural environments. A push-on bayonet lock mechanism allows for a quick and secure connection, which is crucial for the efficient installation and maintenance of GPS guidance systems in the field.

FPC-to-Board

Built for speed, the DF40T Series facilitates rapid data transfer, essential for real-time data collection, analysis, and decision-making. It fully supports PCI-Express Gen4 transmission, enabling LiDAR to leverage big data, AI, machine learning, and cloud computing technologies. Designed for durability, it features an anti-buckling design and a long, effective mating length, ensuring high contact reliability. With a space-saving design, heat resistance, and high-speed transmission capabilities, the DF40T Series is an ideal solution for the intricate requirements of agricultural equipment utilizing LiDAR.

Implementing the DF40T or DF40F also simplifies design and assembly. The connectors feature a floating contact design that absorbs misalignment, offering flexibility when multiple board-to-board connectors are on the same board.  

Hybrid

Many OEMs use compact hybrid solutions that combine power and signal in one efficient package, tailored to the intricate needs of LiDAR systems to simplify designs. The FX23 Series, for example, with its high-speed transmission and hybrid power and signal design, is ideal for the demanding conditions of agricultural applications, providing a robust and reliable solution that supports the industry's shift towards technologically advanced farming. Like the DF40T and DF40F, the FX23 Series also has a floating contact design for flexibility in multiple mounting scenarios.

Ethernet

The ix Industrial connector is 75% smaller than traditional RJ45 connectors, allowing space-saving integration in agricultural machinery where size constraints are often a concern.  Its unique shell design offers high PCB retention force and resistance to cable pulling and prying, ensuring reliable performance in the harsh environments typical of agricultural settings.

With a 360-degree shield design, the connector offers excellent protection against electromagnetic interference, which is crucial for maintaining signal integrity in equipment exposed to various electrical noise sources on farms. Supporting Cat.5e (1Gbps) and Cat.6A (10Gbps) speeds, the ix Industrial enables the rapid data transfer required for real-time image processing in agricultural machine vision systems.

Certified as a GigE Vision standard connector, the ix Industrial is particularly suited for machine vision cameras used in agricultural applications like crop monitoring, pest detection, and harvest automation.

Waterproof

Meeting Cat.5e (1Gbps) and Cat.6A (10Gbps) specifications, the LF series enables rapid data transfer for real-time image processing in agricultural high-resolution camera systems. Its metal shell construction provides an IPX7/IPX8 rating, ensuring durability against harsh agricultural conditions, including exposure to dust, dirt, and chemicals. The folded shield braid and contact springs enhance noise prevention, maintaining signal integrity in electrically noisy farm environments. A bayonet locking system guarantees a secure connector even in high-vibration applications.

Connector versatility is key. Connectors must support diverse connection types for signal and data, making them compatible with a wide range of agricultural systems. ISOBUS, also known as ISO 11783, is the primary communication protocol used in modern tractors and farming equipment. This standardized international protocol allows different agricultural machines to communicate with each other using a common language, regardless of the manufacturer.

Ease of uses crucial. Tool-free locking mechanisms and flexible mounting options simplify assembly, reducing both time and cost.

Meeting these requirements enables advanced agricultural technologies, such as automated irrigation, precision spraying, and agricultural robots, to operate efficiently and reliably.

For more information on how Hirose Electric's connectors can transform your wearable device design, visit hirose.com or contact our team of experts today.