Drones and other unmanned aircraft play a critical role in military operations. Five key attributes guide military and aerospace designers as they specify interconnects for these systems. The U.S. Army’s vision statement in its 2010–2035 roadmap for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) begins, “Army UAS employed across all tactical echelons supporting Army and Joint operations provideRead More

The Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market landscape is pushing the technological boundaries of the old tried-and-true methodologies, including new aircraft certification. However, they must still adhere to fundamental safety regulations. The aerospace industry has historically been one of tried-and-true technology and processes. However, with the explosion of markets within the industry, including the Advanced AirRead More

The annual distributors’ gathering was back on after a virtual year. Companies reported a great year despite pandemic and supply chain disruptions. After two years of digital presentations in 2020 and 2021, the Electronics Distributors Show (EDS) resumed its annual Las Vegas rituals this year. Meeting in person from May 9-13, 2022, more than 400Read More

Onboard technologies, including networks of instruments and high-tech navigation equipment, have prepared boats and ships for the next step: autonomous operation. A proven history of semi-autonomous operation using networked instruments means that the maritime industry is well prepared for the next autonomous phase. Companies like Garmin supply chart plotters and auto-pilots for commercial vessels, cruisers,Read More

Passenger Information Systems technologies that deliver timely and accurate travel information help make commuter rail networks efficient and user-friendly. Reliable and rugged interconnects are an essential link in the network. Passenger Information Systems In today’s sophisticated rail networks, timeliness is designed into the tightly controlled system. That means even the slightest hitch with one trainRead More

The automotive industry is the second-largest market for connectors, with increasing production of both conventional and electric vehicles. Bishop & Associates’ new research report explores the products, technologies, supply chain challenges, and other factors impacting the automotive market.   The World Automotive Connector Market The automotive market is the center of intense innovation as safety,Read More

Cable accessories and organization tools enhance system performance and design. Cable is an essential part of electronic systems. As sensors and antennas, battery management systems, and edge computing become integral parts of electronic design, cable content is increasing in products for every market. Adding cable, however, brings more weight, volume, and the potential for electromagneticRead More

Space and weight constraints, environmental regulations, and increasingly complex system requirements are inspiring new wire harness products and versatile interconnect alternatives. Automotive wire harnesses come in thousands of varieties. Some modern vehicles contain close to 40 different harnesses, with up to 700 connectors and more than 3,000 wires. Additional variation is required for wire harnessesRead More

Consumers treat USBs roughly — there’s no way around it in the constant cycle of plugging and unplugging, so these ubiquitous connectors are up to the challenge. But as USBs move into even more rugged environments (and into the hands of ever-younger consumers), tough new versions are ready. The Universal Serial Bus (USB) is theRead More

Space constraints within small devices create challenges for component placement on the boards. Innovations in ZIF-style flex connectors offer designers a possible solution.   By Jeff Combs, Director of Sales, CE Segment at Hirose Electric USA  Hardware designs for IoT, consumer, modular, and other complex applications often leave limited space for the mating and assembly ofRead More

The next generation of electronics professionals learn about components and robotic systems while having fun in competition. The innovation that drives technology is itself driven, at least in part, by the new ideas and perspectives that come with fresh eyes and open minds. Attracting students to the industry from an early age, therefore, is vitalRead More

Connector companies demonstrated high-speed, high-performance systems, co-packaged optics, over-the-board cable solutions, and next-generation interconnects at an industry gathering that was nearly normal — except for its April dates.  The 27th edition of DesignCon proved to be the latest example of hope that the world is nearing a new normal post-Covid era. The masks mostly cameRead More