AT&T Co and Du Pont Co have joined forces to design and develop the Metral two millimetre connector system, a modular interconnection packaging system for high signal line density and electrical performance for data processing and telecommunications applications. Applications for the connector system will include mid-range computer systems, transmissions systems, and switching systems such as PABXs, the companies say. The emerging Futurebus Plus standard being developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers will use a 2mm connector and the Metral system is claimed to be the first first commercial system designed for the next-generation standard. Bert Roberts, director of Du Pont Electronics here in the UK is global business manager for the Metral system, which is based on a 2mm grid that enables higher density interconnects than the current 0.1 standard and about doubles the number of electrical connections per board. Metral comprises modules for signal, input-output options and power supply, used as building blocks for easy design and upgrade. The partners will each manufacture and market the products independently worldwide, Du Pont making them first at Hertogenbosch plant in the Netherlands. Prototypes of basic components are available, with broad availability set for first quarter of next year.
