Overview

Improve Signal Transmission for Spacecraft Electronics

Signal speed and integrity are essential for effective communication among spacecraft components. Cables — the lifeline of data transmission — are often run through very tight spaces in the spacecraft. For cables to reliably maintain signal integrity, they need to be flexible, and they need to be tough.

GORE Symmetrical Interconnects offer the best combination available for spacecraft component connections: solid mechanical durability, and excellent signal integrity. Small, lightweight and extremely flexible, these balanced, single-twinax cables deliver data transmission rates as high as 1 Gbit/s to maintain outstanding signal integrity.

The cables meet the stringent requirements of ESCC-3902/002, and are listed on the ESA QPL (Qualified Parts List) — providing the quality assurance critical to mission success in outer space.

The Science Behind the Cables
ePTFE in our cables helps to reduce interference between electrical systems.

ePTFE in our cables helps to reduce interference between electrical systems.

The key to the outstanding performance of Gore symmetrical interconnects is the proprietary material used in the cable insulation: expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE).

By incorporating ePTFE into the cables, Gore is able to provide tight impedance control to reduce interference, with balanced transmission between separate lines within the cable. The microstructure of the ePTFE material makes Gore symmetrical interconnects lighter than other cables with comparable performance and minimizes the problems associated with balancing difficult mass budgets.

Features & Benefits

GORE Symmetrical Interconnects dependably feature:

  • high signal speed up to 1 Gbit/s
  • high density/reduced mass
  • balanced, shielded lines
  • high-speed link among units

By pairing these features with the material benefits of PTFE, our cables deliver:

  • excellent compatibility among system components
  • reduced costs for system integration and maintenance
  • design flexibility of a modular system
  • improved reliability from rugged materials used in construction
  • valued reliability delivered from an ESA-qualified and a DIN EN ISO 9001:2000-certified manufacturing facility

Additionally, Gore’s worldwide engineering team provides sales and technical support. If you have any questions about GORE® Symmetrical Interconnects, please contact us.

Applications

Aboard spacecrafts, GORE Symmetrical Interconnects are typically used in:

  • digital signal processors
  • high-resolution cameras and sensors
  • high-speed subsystem interconnects

To date, many critical missions have incorporated our symmetrical interconnects, including:

  • European Remote Sensing Satellite (ERS1/ERS2)
  • Polar Platform
  • ENVISAT satellite
  • XMM space observatory
  • International Space Station (ISS)
  • INMARSAT

Specifications

All Gore symmetrical interconnects meet these technical specifications according to ESCC 3902/002 and are listed on the ESA QPL.

Property Value
Operating temperature range -200°C to +180°C
Maximum temperature for short periods 260°C
Dielectric material Expanded PTFE
Outer jacket PFA
Conductor construction Concentric silver-plated copper
Operating voltage 100 V RMS
Maximum weight 36 g/m
Maximum diameter 5.2 mm
Bending radius 10 x outer diameter (repeated) or 6 x outer diameter (once)
Transmission Rate Up to 1 Gbit/s
Maximum capacitance: conductor to conductor 68 pF/m

 

Ordering Information

GORE Symmetrical Interconnects vary by gauge size and impedance. Refer to your application to determine the appropriate part number, and please contact us with any questions.

Part Number  Gauge Size (AWG) Impedance (ohm) 
GBL-075-24  24 75
GBL-100-22  22 100 (with drain wire) 
GBL-120-30  30 120
GBL-120-28  28 120
GBL-120-26  26 120
GBL-120-24  24 120

 

Resources

Learn more about GORE Symmetrical Interconnects in a data sheet and a white paper discussing the properties of cables that ensure peak electrical performance.

Recent News

Event

Gore Cables & Assemblies on Display at Space Tech Expo

November 19, 2024 - November 21, 2024

See GORE® Space Cables and Assemblies in Booth W31 at this year’s expo. Our failure-free solutions help guarantee successful launches and missions orbiting Earth and across the galaxy while ensuring astronauts’ safe return. Reserve time at the expo now to meet with a Gore specialist and discuss your latest and upcoming application challenges and requirements.

Event

Discover the Future with Gore Innovations at Farnborough Airshow

July 22, 2024 - July 26, 2024

Come by to see us in Hall 1, Booth 1120G, at this year’s airshow in Farnborough, UK, from July 22-26 to discover how GORE® Cables and Materials can help propel aerospace and defense into the future. See demos to witness firsthand how our solutions outperform many alternatives. Reserve time at the airshow now to meet with a Gore specialist and discuss your latest issues and requirements.

Event

Explore Gore’s Next-Gen Defense Solutions at Eurosatory 2024

June 17, 2024 - June 24, 2024

Visit Hall 5A H215 at this year’s show in Paris, France, from June 17-24 to check out GORE® High Speed Data Cables that ensure mission success, survivability and safety. Reserve time now for a private meeting with a Gore specialist at the show to talk about your latest system design challenges and future needs.

Event

Visit Gore at the Army Aviation Mission Solutions Summit (AAAA)

April 24, 2024 - April 26, 2024

Stop by Booth 1218 to see our demos and learn how GORE® Cables and Materials perform reliably despite Army airframe and aviation challenges. We’re eager to hear about your latest systems and collaborate with you to deliver solutions that ensure mission success and protect our aircrew.

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