The goal of PSMC is to address the technology gaps and challenges that limit the advancement of hardware technology for integrated photonic system manufacturing. Learn more about how to get involved. The Photonic Systems Manufacturing Consortium (PSMC) is a collaborative program organized by the International Electronics Manufacturing Initiative (iNEMI) and the MIT Microphotonics Center (MIT-MphC), and funded by theRead More

New silver alloys address the issues of durability and conductivity through a fundamental difference in crystalline structure. Dr. Bob takes a closer look at nanocrystalline silver contact platings.   Two papers* were published last year that introduced nanocrystalline silver alloy contact platings – one a silver-palladium alloy and the other silver-tungsten. Both papers cite theRead More

Need to brush up on the latest info about USB 3.0? John MacWilliams explains the pros, cons, history, and future of USB 3.0 technology at a glance.   The Universal Serial Bus standard has been one of the most successful connector specifications ever, shepherded by the USB Implementers Forum. USB dates back to 2008 andRead 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

Inside Connection highlights the technologies, innovations, special services, and unique products from connector suppliers like Liberty Electronics.  Headquarters Location: Franklin, Penn., US About the Company Liberty Electronics was founded in Franklin, Penn., in 1985. At the time, the local economy was struggling following the closing or departure of several large employers. The community rallied behindRead More

As both the US and European allies continue to cut defense programs and spending, the mil/aero market’s slow growth continues.   Bishop & Associates tracks 11 companies in the military/aerospace (mil/aero) market sector. This market has shown anemic results over the last five quarters, as measured by these 11 companies’ revenues. In 2013, these companies grewRead More

Today, China is dominant in high-volume, low-mix manufacturing, yet there is a groundswell of activity to return manufacturing to North America and Europe. John MacWilliams asks: Is there an insourcing movement afoot?   The contract manufacturing movement started in the late ’80s. This outsourcing movement freed up OEM resources so they could concentrate on product design and marketing, andRead 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

TE MIL-STD-1553B PCB connectors offer a reliable mechanical and electrical data bus interface. TE Connectivity announced its MIL-STD-1553B PCB connectors for aerospace applications that offer high-speed connectivity and reliable performance in extreme conditions and environments. The new press-fit PCB connectors offer customers a robust electrical and mechanical connection between the connector and the PCB that isRead More

The Molex MediSpec Plastic Circular System is an economical, custom-off-the-shelf interconnect system with a 10,000-cycle durability rating. Molex Incorporated introduced the MediSpec Medical Plastic Circular (MPC) Interconnect System, an economical custom-off-the-shelf interconnect system that delivers high mating cycles and low mating forces, at a fraction of the cost of competing machined-contact systems. Combining premium performanceRead More