28/10/2022
How Robin Radar Utilizes Our Waterproof Connectors
Recently, we had an extensive discussion with Erik Noort regarding the utilization of our waterproof connectors in the radar solutions provided by Robin Radar. Below, you can peruse the entire interview.
What was the scenario before you reached out to Lumberg Nederland?
At Robin Radar, we conceptualize and fabricate a portable radar system used to track flight paths of birds or small drones for our clientele. Our radar solutions find application in harbors, airports, and wind farm installations. These mobile radar units are deployed in rugged environments, subject to harsh conditions.
In the case of the controller units, we were urgently seeking waterproof connectors, ideally in a uniform design. We had multiple brands in use, but none offered a comprehensive series capable of accommodating all necessary connectors. While one brand provided power and network capabilities, it lacked USB and HDMI pass-through. Conversely, the connectors from another brand that offered USB and HDMI pass-through lacked power pass-through. Moreover, these connectors were typically rated only IP65, whereas we required a higher IP66 rating. Finding a solution within a single range, especially with regard to the HDMI insert, proved exceedingly challenging.
Hence, we began exploring alternatives, and that's when we discovered Lumberg Nederland.
Initially, we harbored reservations due to the fact that the product is manufactured in China. However, upon successfully passing all our stringent tests, we ultimately decided to opt for your solution."
Can you tell is more about the tests you conducted with our connectors?
Absolutely. We conducted dust and water tests to ensure that the connectors met the IP rating required for our outdoor enclosures. Additionally, we subjected them to temperature tests ranging from -25 to +50 degrees Celsius.
And your connectors performed excellently in these tests, even surpassing the IP67 rating
This enables our customers to deploy our radar solutions in the widest range of zones on Earth, in accordance with military specifications. While they may not be suitable for use in Antarctica and the North Pole, they are perfectly suited for use in the zones in between.
How did you discover our waterproof connectors?
It was quite simple, really. I just started googling. When I came across your website, I noticed that you have a special and highly diverse portfolio for waterproof connectors.
How do you experience the contact with Lumberg Nederland?
We have experienced our contact with Lumberg Nederland as very pleasant. I used the contact form on your website with my inquiry and received a fairly prompt response. The subsequent communications went very smoothly.
How easy or difficult was it to start working with the connectors?
Initially, we received a comprehensive set of samples, allowing us to familiarize ourselves with the connectors. Additionally, Jean-Paul promptly provided us with the dimensional drawings for CAD 3D/STEP files, which proved invaluable for our design process. I could then easily provide these files to our drafter with the message: "This will be the new connector series."
These files were seamlessly integrated into our drafting workflow, enabling us to incorporate the new connector series into our product designs. As a result, we've already completed production on six of these connectors, with the entire range scheduled for production soon.
What makes this solution different from what you previously used?
Lumberg Nederland not only met our specifications but also showcased their strength in flexibility.
Typically, the connector series comes with a colored cap, with each color representing a unique connector insert. However, we anticipated that our customers in the military environment would find our colorful array of caps amusing, Erik explains with a wide grin.
Luckily, Lumberg Nederland demonstrated their flexibility by providing us with an additional set of black caps, allowing us to easily replace them ourselves.
How have costs, time, and productivity improved?
We've seen significant improvements, particularly in terms of costs. The price-to-quality ratio of your CNlinko connector solution is excellent.
Are there any aspects you'd
like to see different from Lumberg Nederland in the future?
At the moment, I can't think of anything. We're highly satisfied with our collaboration. The only connector we haven't been able to replace yet is a connector insert for power combined with fiber optics in one connector. If you were to add that to the portfolio of this series in the future, we'd be very interested.
Robin Radar's mission is to provide actionable information that enhances safety for both people and birds. They achieve this by combining specially built radars with unique software algorithms, turning customers into ambassadors to achieve leadership in their market. Robin Radar offers advanced logging and dispersal tools. With bio-acoustic technology, they are building a safer, more proactive future for bird control. Robin Radar ranks among the top three most innovative companies in the Netherlands and is constantly researching, developing, producing, and above all, innovating.
About Robin Radar
Robin Radar's mission is to provide actionable information that enhances safety for both people and birds. They achieve this by combining specially built radars with unique software algorithms, turning customers into ambassadors to achieve leadership in their market.
Robin Radar offers advanced logging and dispersal tools. With bio-acoustic technology, they are building a safer, more proactive future for bird control. Robin Radar ranks among the top three most innovative companies in the Netherlands and is constantly researching, developing, producing, and above all, innovating.
Learn more about Robin Radar's innovative solutions here