Observers have claimed Fibre Channel, which powers Storage Area Networks (SANs), has been in decline for years, replaced by newer, faster standards. But innovations in storage network software and infrastructure may help keep demand for Fibre Channel and its dedicated connectors and cables alive. By Neil Shurtz Computing applications are continuing to grow in complexity.Read More

The Consortium for On-Board Optics (COBO) has released the industry’s first on-board optics specification. What does this mean for you? In April 2018, the Consortium for On-Board Optics (COBO) released its first specification for optics that reside on the motherboard. COBO has specified modules capable of 400G and 800G rates. The designs will also supportRead More

A speck of dust can spell disaster for a fiber network. The correct cleaning methods make all the difference in protecting the optical signal. By Mike Jones, Vice-President, MicroCare Corp. When optical networks are exposed to even miniscule amounts of contamination, performance can suffer. In typical operating conditions, dust and debris can accumulate on the fiberRead More

Hyperboloid contacts improve contact density, mating force, functionality, and cycle-life in high-density rectangular connectors designed for mil/aero applications. Robert Lascelles, Product Manager – integraMate®, QA Technology Company, Inc.  Rectangular Connectors In mil/aero applications, high-line-count rectangular connectors are often used as the interface between PCBs, between internal subassemblies, at input-output bulkheads, and between the equipment andRead More

Supremely durable space-grade connectors help us explore the next frontier. By Caroline Hayes Today, thousands of commercial satellites circle the globe to enable the telecommunications needed to implement the Internet of Things. They are also used for navigation systems and research projects, like the European Space Agency’s Galileo global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and Copernicus,Read More

Many manufacturers offer solutions for challenging mil/aero environments with harsh conditions and strict requirements. By Rob Toenies, Product Manager, Newark element14 Connectivity is the lifeblood of today’s technology-driven world. This multifaceted term has many dimensions, referencing technology extending from the internet and data networks to home appliances and devices of all sizes. In the military/aerospaceRead More

Molex examines the benefits of integrated fiber optics vs. copper cable assemblies in mission-critical systems.  Thomas Heller, Account Manager, Aerospace and Defense, Molex The world’s most complex technologies are deployed in critical mission command, control, communications, computer, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems. Military and civil aerospace markets cover a spectrum of high-bandwidth fiber optic applications rangingRead More

As growing numbers of hobbyists and makers tinker with today’s technology, more electronics companies are meeting their makers. By Amy Goetzman Technology is everywhere. The Internet of Things (IoT) is touching every aspect of our lives. The line between virtual reality and the real world is blurring. For most users, engagement in this evolution isRead More

Recent introductions in the work truck market highlight the ongoing rise in electronic features and functions. By Terry Costlow The role of electronic technologies continues to grow in the commercial trucking world. Companies are finding more niches for electrified systems and powertrains in trucks destined for all markets. Several introductions at the recent Work TruckRead More

New connector technologies help recreational vehicle markets achieve emissions targets. By Dan Cantrell, Industry Manager, Vehicle Components & Recreation, TE Connectivity Designers need to look carefully for the best interconnect solutions in today’s harness and wiring designs. Emission regulation compliance requirements add complexity and reliability elements to designs. The developing e-bike market creates new connectivityRead More

Critical requirements for modern medical connectors include: safety, reliability, small size, and high-speed performance.  Kirk Hilbourn, Industry Marketing Manager, JAE Being such a small component in the grand design of any medical device, one may assume connectors to be an insignificant part of medical equipment. However, connectors play an enormous role in the proper functionalityRead More

Smaller, more powerful handheld, portable, and wearable devices depend on a new generation of battery connectors. By Jean Thimany While many commercial off-the-shelf battery connectors remain unchanged even after many years on the market, connector companies are creating new battery connector designs to correspond with the increasing computerization and decreasing size of many battery-powered devices.Read More