MacArtney has expanded its SubConn® Micro Circular series with a new 9‑contact variant that maintains the existing footprint while introducing a specialised shielding contact to improve data integrity in compact subsea instruments. Developed for system designers and operational teams alike, it ensures stable, low‑noise performance in harsh underwater environments.
As subsea instruments pack more sensors into smaller housings, maintaining signal integrity becomes a design challenge. The Data Micro Circular 9‑contact provides a purpose-assigned shielding path that reduces electrical noise and supports more integrated circuit layouts in space-constrained platforms.
Paul Anthony, Global Business Development Director at MacArtney, comments:
“Across the industry, instruments are getting smaller while expectations for data quality continue to rise. Many of our customers are designing sensor platforms where every millimetre counts, and they need connectivity solutions that minimise noise and enable more integrated layouts. For operators, this means cleaner, more reliable signals in the field. It’s a small connector, but the impact on data performance is significant.”
Enhanced signal path, same compact format
The connector maintains full compatibility with existing Micro Circular form factors, enabling system designers to add capabilities without altering mechanical interfaces. Testing has confirmed a stable 1 Gb data transmission on cable assemblies up to 20 metres, ensuring reliable signal and data performance for bandwidth‑sensitive subsea systems.
For operators, improved shielding and low contact resistance ensure clean, predictable signal and data transmission from deployment to recovery across varying depths, temperatures, and handling conditions.
This is supported by a current rating of 5 A per contact (up to 15 A per connector), providing reliable power delivery for low‑power sensor lines and high‑integrity data communication. Polyurethane‑designed cables will be standard on inline versions to ensure consistent data‑rate performance.
5 A per contact (15 A per connector) ensures stable power and clean, reliable data transmission.
Dependable performance even at great ocean depths
The connector is wet‑mateable and pressure‑tested to 600 bar, ensuring dependable performance in deep‑water conditions. Its contact design maintains stable electrical performance across varying temperatures and handling scenarios, while a wide selection of housing materials – including brass, stainless steel, titanium and anodised aluminium – supports durability and compatibility across diverse platform requirements.
It operates reliably over a wide range of water temperatures from –4°C to +60°C.
Built for modern marine applications
The Data Micro Circular 9‑contact integrates seamlessly into compact marine systems where data quality is critical, including oceanographic packages, environmental monitoring systems, autonomous platforms, small ROVs, integrated sensor suites, and multi‑parameter survey equipment.
Its combination of shielding, durability, and a familiar footprint strengthens the signal pathway at the connection point for both next‑generation designs and systems already in service.
Availability
The new 9-contact connector is available in inline and bulkhead configurations, including the SubConn Metal Shell 1500 range. In addition, we can offer right‑angle and customised variants on request. MacArtney supports the entire SubConn® range and maintains substantial stock, ensuring immediate access to SubConn connector solutions worldwide.