Starting a new FPGA project typically requires a custom form factor, pinout, and thermal concept for every design. Now the Standardization Group for Embedded Technologies (SGET)’s new Open Harmonized FPGA Module, or oHFM, puts a new high-speed board-to-board interconnect at the center of the design. A new standardized interface is changing the way FPGA applicationsRead More

Engineers frequently devote significant attention to processors, sensors, and software from the outset of a project, with connector selection sidelined until the later stages. However, the importance of electrical connectors cannot be underestimated: a single compromised connection can interrupt power delivery, corrupt data transmission, or bring equipment to a standstill. Article Contributed By Thisen BirdRead More

Power D or Combo D-subs are specialized mixed-layout connectors that combine standard signal contacts with larger contacts for power, coax (RF), or high voltage in one shielded, locking, D-shaped shell. Some product lines also add fiber-optic contacts. The two names are often used interchangeably; however, some manufacturers use “Power-D” and “Combo-D” to distinguish products inRead More

The USB-C connector has quickly moved from consumer applications into harsh environments. With 20 Gb/s data rates and IP-rated sealed variants, this connector can handle industrial conditions and serve in controllers, robotics, and peripherals for the factory floor. A new class of rugged USB-Cs and cables elevates this ubiquitous interface. It’s been nearly two years sinceRead More

Connectors are among the smallest components in a larger electrical system, but they hold significant responsibility to carry current repeatedly, maintain stable electrical performance, withstand harsh environments, and support safe operation over thousands of mating cycles. When that connector is specified correctly and manufactured to the appropriate quality standards, it can perform reliably for years.Read More

With its small footprint and robust construction, ix Industrial has given Industrial applications a rugged alternative to RJ45. Now ODVA is taking a closer look. ix Industrial is the next-generation connector for Ethernet and other industrial equipment transmission. Initially developed by two major companies — Hirose and HARTING, in partnership — ix Industrial gained acceptanceRead More

Solid-state lighting (SSL) connectors are interconnects developed for LED (and OLED) illumination products. DigiKey described these products this way: “Products in the solid-state lighting connector family are interconnect products designed and marketed with particular focus on the needs of LED-based illumination applications. In general, this implies a focus on low product and assembly costs, predominantlyRead More

As circuits run faster and hotter, keeping components cool becomes a more urgent challenge. Liquid cooling systems are an important strategy to help cool down data centers, industrial equipment, electric vehicles, and other high-speed, high-power applications. Thermal management is one of the most pressing challenges in today’s high-speed electronics systems. As transistors per chip continueRead More

As reliable interfaces between PCBs, board-to-board connectors increasingly perform in harsh environments, where they fulfill mechanical functions as well as transmit signal and power connectivity. That makes it crucial to specify the right component for the conditions. Article contributed by Detlef E. Preissler, Senior Specialist, Product Marketing Board-to-Board Connectors, Phoenix Contact GmbH & Co. KG,Read More

Low-cost plug in or balcony solar panels and distributed energy resources are poised to help consumers lower their energy bills in the next grid revolution. Despite fluctuating government policies and tariffs, photovoltaic installations are growing exponentially around the world, from utility scale arrays to innovative small residential formats. In 2025, solar generation grew by 636Read More

Advanced solar energy systems are enabling efficient and reliable power for technologies and facilities in remote or off-grid environments. These technologies are advancing energy independence into rural areas, harsh environments, temporary installations, disaster zones, and other locations where power is needed and generators are unavailable.   Article Contributed By Mouser Electronics  In an era where sustainabilityRead More

Connectors used in oilfields face temperatures that warp plastics, chemicals that eat seals, vibrations that shake contacts loose, and electrical interference that can turn vital data into noise. Distributors can help find rugged solutions. Article Contributed by TTI Inc., Jim McNeil, General Manager Walk into a design review for an oilfield project and you willRead More