The assumption that hardwiring will minimize wire installation costs is wrong. Here, Lapp Group explains how connectors lower wiring costs. If you design or build industrial machines, you probably know all about hardwiring. It remains the most common way to bring power and signal to the machine because it offers a perceived savings in installationRead More

Recently we spoke with Ward Williams, chief commercial officer at ProLabs, to learn more about the compatible product market.   Q: What are compatible network products? A: Compatible products can include transceivers, direct-attach cables (DAC), active optical cables (AOC), and media converters, among others. Compatibles are designed to work with all manufacturers’ equipment and can beRead More

For the new electric and hybrid vehicles, powertrain controls and connectors require the complete functionality of a conventional vehicle, plus the components required to drive the electric motor and charge the Lithium-ion battery pack.  Worldwide production of electric vehicles (EV) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) reached two million units in 2014, nearly doubling since 2011 andRead More

Rectangular connectors are commonly used in automotive applications, but the industry has unique requirements. Phoenix Contact offers tips on how to specify rectangular connectors for automotive applications. Rectangular connectors have long been used in industries where a harsh environment is standard operating procedure. These connectors need to meet a variety of specifications, including a high IngressRead More

Component requirements for the automotive market are demanding, diverse, and forward-looking. ODU shares five things to know about precise contacts for the automotive industry. The reliable transfer of power, signals, data, and media are achieved with interconnects across a wide range of demanding applications and markets. The requirements for the automotive industry, for example, are both diverse andRead More

Never underestimate the importance of contact/housing retention mechanisms. Serious issues can arise if contacts are not assembled properly or if the retention device is not robust.   Connectors retain their electrical contacts within an insulating housing. Some retention mechanisms are more reliable than others. Serious issues can arise if the contacts are not assembled properlyRead More

Three-dimensional digital models of components created with the help of a computer tomograph enable targeted process optimization of injection molding and high-pressure die-casting processes.   Computer tomography is an X-ray-based procedure in which the test object is scanned from different angles. The test object is positioned on a turntable between an X-ray source and aRead More

As we begin to expand usage of USB 3.0 to reap the many benefits, we must pay attention to how the connectors and cables affect circuit operation. Here, Omnetics’ Bob Stanton explains how to use USB 3.0 connectors and cables.   As we begin to tap into the potential of USB 3.0 speeds that run upRead More

Traditionally, copper connectors have been the mainstay technology in military applications. Find out how ruggedized fiber optics in military-grade systems can outperform copper.   In mission-critical military systems, equipment failure and unplanned downtime cannot be tolerated. Traditionally, copper connectors have been the mainstay technology in military applications – withstanding the test of time due to their abilityRead More

Erich Reichenbach of Reichenbach International Inc. offers tips on how to specify connectors for drones, which require versatile, lightweight, and reliable components that perform in demanding environments.   Connectors for drone applications must be small, lightweight, rugged, reliable, and versatile, as they are exposed to a variety of demanding environments. Here are some factors to consider when specifyingRead More

The Department of Defense needs to deliver greater network speed and capacity with stronger security, all while dealing with ever-leaner budgets. Telos Corporation explains why passive optical network solutions are the answer.   Passive Optical Network (PON) technology delivers voice, data, and video at terabit speeds with lower costs and greater security, as well as:Read More

The need for high-speed connections has expanded from office environments to remote and sometimes outdoor implementations, including those for the military. Here, ODU looks at the rugged high-speed data connector requirements to consider for such applications.   We’re all familiar with the types of connectors required to transfer high-speed data in our everyday lives, whether weRead More