Robotics, AI, automated production, and simulation technologies are transforming the automotive production line with new implications for connector selection, wire harness design, and vehicle architectures. Even engineers deeply embedded in vehicle manufacturing can’t believe how quickly artificial intelligence and automation are changing the assembly line. When Dr. Nick Liu, TE Connectivity’s senior director of systemsRead More
As connector form factors multiply and lead-free alloys become the norm, the mechanical transfer machine production is being pushed to its limits. CNC integration offers a solution for high-volume pin and socket production. Article contributed by MIKRON The rotary transfer machine is at the center of connector manufacturing. Capable of cycling through dozens of machiningRead More
Automotive composite wire (ACW) is a dual-wall, single-core wire used in vehicle wire harnesses for engine compartments and other high-temperature zones. Its insulation combines a radiation cross-linked polyolefin inner layer with a radiation cross-linked fluoropolymer outer layer. The two layers are chemically bonded rather than co-extruded in a thin-wall package. It is a cost-effective alternativeRead More
As the data humans create and consume reaches once unimaginable volumes, a new nomenclature has been created to describe it. Carl Sagan, the eminent American astronomer, planetary scientist, cosmologist, astrophysicist, science communicator, author, and professor, invited people to imagine the huge number of stars in our galaxy. His famous quote, “billions upon billions of stars,”Read More
This week’s product roundup highlights FFC and FPC connector solutions from top suppliers. I-PEX Connectors’ DW5 two-way FPC and discrete wire connectors can accommodate 0.2mm-thick (±0.3mm) FPC cables or 34AWG discrete wire using the same PCB and receptacle combination, making them ideal for use in a variety of space-constrained portable electronics, including laptop screens. TheseRead More
This week’s product roundup highlights some of the highest-performance compression connector products currently available on the market. Compression Connector Products AVX Interconnect’s 9155-400 Series two-piece battery connectors have a 4mm pitch and a unique angled contact lead-in on both sides, which, unlike most other connectors in this category, allows pluggable devices to engage from eitherRead More
Connector suppliers provide insight into this evolving connectivity market. As the smart home market evolves, devices are shifting from standalone operation to highly integrated system architectures and a wide range of connected appliances that incorporate smart energy systems and security monitoring. These applications rely on stable data transmission and long-term operational reliability. In this environment,Read More
The current carrying capacity of a connector is not a fixed absolute value; it is always the result of a thermal consideration. Since insulating materials, contact springs, and plating systems are specified only up to a certain temperature limit, the permissible current must be reduced as the ambient temperature increases. This relationship is exactly whatRead More
From live theater and recorded music to video wall backdrops, connectors and cables play an essential role in the entertainment industry. To make sure the show goes on, these components must be rugged as well as precise and evolve to meet the latest trends in media. Before Brant Mathiason worked in the connector industry, heRead More
The USB-C connector has quickly moved from consumer applications into harsh environments. With 20 Gb/s data rates and IP-rated sealed variants, this connector can handle industrial conditions and serve in controllers, robotics, and peripherals for the factory floor. A new class of rugged USB-Cs and cables elevates this ubiquitous interface. It’s been nearly two years sinceRead More
Connectors are among the smallest components in a larger electrical system, but they hold significant responsibility to carry current repeatedly, maintain stable electrical performance, withstand harsh environments, and support safe operation over thousands of mating cycles. When that connector is specified correctly and manufactured to the appropriate quality standards, it can perform reliably for years.Read More
With its small footprint and robust construction, ix Industrial has given Industrial applications a rugged alternative to RJ45. Now ODVA is taking a closer look. ix Industrial is the next-generation connector for Ethernet and other industrial equipment transmission. Initially developed by two major companies — Hirose and HARTING, in partnership — ix Industrial gained acceptanceRead More
One solution is higher voltage systems that reduce wire size and require less copper. Off-road transportation, such as work trucks, construction vehicles, and agricultural equipment, rely on battery systems that power everything in the vehicle. This includes the sensors sending signals back and forth to monitor all parts of the vehicle, as well as theRead More
When designing industrial and commercial transportation vehicles with high-voltage batteries and related systems, manufacturers and system integrators face an important question: Is a high voltage interlock, or HVIL, necessary at every high-voltage interface? Article Contributed By Daniel Domke, Senior Manager, Product Management, Industrial & Commercial Transportation, TE Connectivity For trucks, buses, construction equipment, and miningRead More
A South Florida railway operator wanted to update crossing signals along its system. With the help of a connector supplier, they found a solution that went even further, improving system reliability, longevity, functionality, and safety, while saving money. Article Contributed By Barry Nelson, WAGO Connected technologies are transforming the railroad industry. From electrification and high-speedRead More
Medical devices require connectivity that is safe for operators and patients, while maintaining signal integrity and performance. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) are major concerns for electrical engineers in the design and use of electronic equipment. Any environment with multiple electronic devices has the potential for EMI. In the medical arena, which oftenRead More
Robots and automated installations play a key role in industry by performing a variety of tasks that require precision, speed, and endurance. Their main tasks include automating manufacturing processes such as welding, painting, and assembly, increasing efficiency by working faster and error-free, and increasing occupational safety as they can perform dangerous or repetitive tasks. AutomatedRead More
The input/output panel of AI equipment is a prime example of how evolving demands have spawned the introduction of alternative solutions that address bandwidth demand, signal density, field serviceability, energy efficiency, thermal management, and utilization of both copper and fiber optic options. Most people would agree that having multiple choices to solve a problem isRead More
Police and security patrol vehicles are adopting new and emerging technologies from both the military and automotive worlds. This unique market combines defense-grade signal integrity demands with automotive-grade ruggedization requirements, often in the same harness. Police and security patrol cars have become mobile electronics platforms, with huge investments in recent years outfitting these fleet vehiclesRead More
Harsh environments leave no margin for error. Whether deployed deep underwater, high in the sky, inside surgical equipment, or on the battlefield, connectivity must perform flawlessly under extreme conditions. Exposure to vibration, shock, temperature extremes, moisture, chemicals, and electromagnetic interference turns a simple interconnect into a mission-critical component. Article contributed by Casey Cavender, CFO, KensingtonRead More
Power cables are used in the transmission of electrical energy to, for example, run a motor, light a bulb, or charge a battery. In the power industry, power cables are categorized as high-tension (designed for higher voltages to carry bulk electrical power to substations), or low-tension cables (low voltage for final local distribution of electricityRead More
Introduced at OFC 2026, the new XPO pluggable modules provide a solution to the challenges of signal density, thermal management, field serviceability, and power efficiency. Continuing advances in artificial intelligence face multiple constraints including power consumption, access to memory, thermal management, and limitations of copper connectivity. Solving these challenges could still result in hobbled systemsRead More
Characterization and modeling of connector losses in internal connector interfaces. Article Contributed By Baptiste Bouix, Product Manager, Würth Elektronik When two or more PCBs need to be interconnected, designers must select the appropriate connectors for their application. However, choosing the wrong connector can compromise the entire design. Larger pitches like 0.8 mm and 1.0 mmRead More
Whitworth Scholarships support the engineering careers of apprentices by helping to fund their education. In 1841, Sir Joseph Whitworth, an English engineer, entrepreneur, inventor, and philanthropist, devised the British Standard Whitworth (BSW), the world’s first screw thread standard. The BSW was widely accepted throughout the United Kingdom and internationally, influencing engineering practices globally, and formingRead More
This week’s product roundup highlights RF connector solutions from top suppliers. I-PEX Connectors’ MHF® I LK Connector System delivers simple, secure connections in applications exposed to high shock and vibration, including: automobiles, aircraft, and drones, and is the only RF connector/harness system with a built-in locking feature that doesn’t require epoxy or tape to keepRead More
This week’s product roundup highlights push-pull connectors from leading suppliers. Heilind Electronics offers the MediSpec™ Medical Plastic Circular (MPC) Interconnect System from Molex, which delivers high-reliability electrical performance especially designed to meet stringent medical standards at a fraction of the cost of competing machined-contact systems. This system features lightweight, medical-grade plastic housings compatible with autoclave,Read More
This week’s product roundup highlights some of the most robust, reliable, and highest-performance wire and cable products available on today’s market. Stewart Connector’s SealJack™ Cable Applied Series preassembled cable assemblies provide high-reliability connectivity in harsh-environment Ethernet applications, including those within the IoT umbrella. They can be customized with IP67 and RJ45 ends using CAT 5eRead More
