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

Dr. Bob reviews two recently published papers to draw conclusions on the possible use of nanocrystalline silver alloy contact finishes in electronic applications. In my previous article, in which I mentioned two recent papers* on the nanocrystalline silver alloys of silver-tungsten (AgW) and silver-palladium (AgPd) and their use as contact finishes, I highlighted the potential benefits these alloysRead 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

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

Ed Bock of APEX Electrical Interconnection Consultants explains how to increase contact performance by pre-stressing to achieve greater strength and expanded dynamic range.   In examining the consequences of residual stress that develop in a contact beam subjected to stresses beyond the material’s elastic limit, we can see how residual stress may be beneficial, or if not properlyRead More

Selecting the right power connector will maximize efficiency in distributed power architectures.   Efficiency is the holy grail of today’s power system architectures. Higher-voltage DC distribution has its advantages and is gaining traction, but the utility of universal AC input with active PFC and attractive full load efficiencies continues to address complex load requirements. ThisRead More

With such a variety of power connectors from which to choose, C2G has put together a short guide to power connectors to make your selection quick and easy.   Power connectors allow electronic devices to connect to available power outlets. Power cables can carry either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). An example of ACRead More

As part of the Connector Basics series, APEX Electrical Interconnection Consultants have introduced us to the phases of new connector development and defined the skills needed for each. In this installment, Bill Garver and George Bedorf discuss the required skills for the manufacturing phase of connector development.   In a previous article, it was suggested thatRead More

In the latest installment in our Connector Basics series, Ed Bock of APEX Electrical Interconnection Consultants looks at the ability of a contact system to operate in spite of external contamination and contact design considerations for long-term reliability.   For those critical electrical contact applications where the consequences of failure are severe and long-term reliability isRead More

Press-fit technology is widely applied in multiple automotive applications because it meets the needs of smaller, lighter, more durable components in the latest vehicle designs. The basic principle of a press-fit connection is that a contact terminal is pressed into a printed circuit board (PCB). There are two types of press-fit pins – the solidRead More

In the next article in the “Connector Basics” series, Ed Bock of APEX Electrical Interconnection Consultants looks at the attributes of silver and explains why it’s a superior finish for high-current applications. Connector designers have a wide selection of finishes to consider for high-current applications, both noble as well as non-noble metals. It is importantRead More