Meet the Connector: IPC-620-Space Addendum IPC/WHMA-A-620 is the global industry-consensus standard for cable and wire harness assemblies; the space addendum pertains to technologies used in space and other extreme harsh environments.  It defines workmanship, materials, process, inspection, and acceptability criteria. The IPC-620 Space Addendum is a specialized supplement to IPC/WHMA-A-620, the industry’s primary standard for the acceptability of cableRead More

Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-12520  Currently inactive for new design, this series of center-lock screw coupling, waterproof, polarized, and multi-contact MIL-spec connectors continues to be available for maintenance of existing military vehicles. The MIL-DTL-12520 specification is currently inactive for new design but remains available for maintenance of existing military vehicles. This circular, multi-contact, water-resistant electrical connector isRead More

A variety of new materials and designs are helping connector manufacturers meet the demand for more rugged and water-tight electronic components. Water may be the enemy of electronics, but properly sealed and protected connectors are at work in complex applications such as outdoor weather stations, naval equipment, traffic infrastructure, lighting systems, outdoor screen technologies, andRead More

Meet the Connector: SDI-12G  Connectors SDI-12G (Serial Digital Interface) is a professional digital video interface standard developed by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE). SDI-12G connectors are part of the SDI family used in broadcast, production, and high-end video applications such as live sporting, music, and news broadcasts. This circular connector solution is designed toRead More

The industrial and commercial equipment market is undergoing a fundamental transformation as electrification moves from the automotive sector into construction, landscaping, logistics, and maintenance equipment. Small, engine-powered equipment is transitioning to electric power. While the electric vehicle transition is progressing unevenly, with some countries pulling back and others moving forward, the same technology is findingRead More

Meet the Sensor: Quantum Sensors Quantum sensors are a highly complex sensing device that measures physical quantities with extreme precision. They can measure time, temperature, distance, gravity, electromagnetic fields, and more. They use the principles of quantum mechanics, such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum coherence, to measure physical quantities. They range in size and abilities,Read More

New prototyping tools and processes make custom solutions more accessible and affordable. When an off-the-shelf solution won’t do, a custom connector can be created. Advanced design software and manufacturing tools such as CNC and 3D printing enable suppliers to very quickly create sophisticated prototypes of custom connectors. A few years ago, this would have beenRead More

Meet the Sensor: Touch Sensors Touch sensors, also called tactile sensors, are part of a broad category of environmental sensors that are activated by touch. They are commonly used in consumer equipment (including touchscreens), medical devices, automotive controls, industrial equipment, and other interactive electronics. There are several types of touch sensors, but capacitive touch sensorsRead More

The transportation landscape has dramatically changed in many countries as advanced electric bicycles, scooters, and other micromobility technologies help ease congestion and pollution, and empower individuals to travel with ease. The tremendous growth of micromobility in the post-pandemic era is a natural result of the convenience, affordability, sustainability, and freedom human-scale transportation offers. Electric technologiesRead More

Meet the Connector: Thermocouple Modules Thermocouple modules are a compact subsystem or interface circuit device that connects a thermocouple sensor to an electronic system. A thermocouple module converts small millivolt signals from thermocouples into usable digital or analog signals. Integrating one into a circuit makes temperature sensing plug-and-play, especially common in embedded systems and industrialRead More

Robots offer transformative functionality to harsh environments. In situations such as the battlefield, radiation zones, and space, robots can accomplish tasks that would be dangerous or impossible for humans. Add in AI, and they become able to analyze, adapt, interact in intelligent ways.   The latest development in the rapidly evolving field of automation isRead More

Meet the Connector: Server Racks Server racks are framework structures that house and organize IT hardware components, including servers and interconnects. They are an essential element of data center design; beyond merely containing the equipment, their form and design can contribute to system cooling and performance. Server racks may take the form of cabinets or shelvesRead More