Meet the Antenna: PCB-mount Antennas PCB-mount antennas are integrated directly into a PCB (printed circuit board). Rather than attaching to the PCB as a separate component, the antenna structure is part of the PCB itself. This makes the antenna less susceptible to damage compared to external antennas. Wireless communication applications such as IoT devices, wirelessRead More

Meet the Cable: Subsea Cables  Subsea cables (also called submarine cables) are specialized, highly ruggedized fiber optic cables that cross the seabed between land-based stations to carry telecommunications signals. They are the backbone of global internet and data communications and transmit data such as internet traffic, telephone calls, and private data. Subsea optical cables carryRead More

Meet the Connector: Disposable Connectors Disposable single-use and limited-reuse connectors must do the same job as reusable versions, but cost, functionality, and environmental impact play a bigger role in their design. Disposables are largely used in medical applications to maximize patient safety by preventing cross-contamination and infection. They are also used in food processing, researchRead More

Meet the Cable: Ribbon or Flat Cable Ribbon cables, also known as flat or planar cables, feature a row of conductive wires running in parallel within a wide, flat, ribbon-shaped cable substrate. Ribbon cable can be folded and bent, providing great design flexibility. The ribbon cable was invented in 1956 by the Cicoil Corporation (aRead More

Meet the Connector: MIL-STD-1760-compliant Connectors MIL-STD-1760 is a military standard developed in the 1980s out of a need to standardize weapon interface and integration requirements in military aircraft. It defines requirements for electrical connectors that establish a cross-platform interface between the aircraft and its weapons systems, as well as with other stores such as equipment pods.Read More

Ruggedized, heavy-duty connectors are an essential element in remote tower installations. The structure and its electronics must be able to endure continuous outdoor environmental conditions. Heavy-duty connectivity solutions are an essential part of successful outdoor communications infrastructure. Tower Solutions, located in Pine City, Minnesota, a manufacturer of mobile tower platforms for surveillance, communications, tactical support,Read More

Meet the Sensor: Flow Sensors Flow sensors are electromechanical devices used to measure the flow of liquids, gases, or non-Newtonian fluids. Flow sensors use both mechanical and electrical subsystems to measure changes in the fluid’s physical attributes and calculate its flow. Optical gas flow meters use laser beams to sense the velocity of microscopic particulatesRead More

Meet the Connector: Precision RF Connectors Precision RF connectors are used to transmit an RF (radio frequency) signal from one point to another. They are typically used for higher frequencies in test and calibration applications that require high performance. Precision RF connectors are generally broken down into two key categories, instrument-grade connectors (IGC) and metrology-gradeRead More

Meet the Connector: Micro-Strip Connectors Micro-strip connectors are extremely small, low-profile board-to-wire, I/O, and wire-to-wire interconnects that offer a high-reliability solution for designers of critical applications where size and weight must be kept to an absolute minimum. They are a powerful and flexible design option for high-reliability and critical applications. Micro-strip connectors are available withRead More

Meet the Connector: MIL-STD-1560 Connectors MIL-STD-1560 is the standard that ensures the reliability and interoperability of  MIL-DTL-38999, MIL-DTL-27599, AND SAE-AS29600 Series A electrical circular connectors by specifying insert and contact arrangements. This is especially significant for connectors used in ruggedized, harsh military, space, and aerospace environments. Interoperability refers to the ability for designers to interchangeRead More

Meet the Antenna: Shark Fin Antennas Discreet, low-profile shark fin antennas have become an essential part of connected systems in automotive and transportation applications. They may also be called paddle antennas. Typically roof-mounted, they have an aerodynamic and stylish form modeled after a shark’s dorsal fin. The housing contains multiple antennas to receive AM/FM andRead More

Meet the Connector: Proximity and Position Sensors Robotics and control systems depend on proximity and position sensors employing methods such as infrared, ultrasonic, or capacitive sensing to correctly park, position, and orient their motion in relation to the environment around them. Proximity sensors Proximity sensors detect the presence of nearby objects, often called targets, withoutRead More