Listing of Market Articles
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Connectivity Advances Naval Shipboard Electronics
Around the world, maritime vessel design is expanding to include new operational and battlefront technologies. These systems require compatible interconnects with high-speed performance, high-reliability, and the ruggedization features required to endure a military environment. Around the world, military vessels are undergoing rapid modernization as traditional naval shipboard systems…
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Flexible Alternatives to Semi-Rigid Cable Assemblies
As system complexity increases and space constraints tighten, a more adaptable solution has become necessary — without compromising the critical electrical performance requirements that make semi-rigid cables the current standard. In the demanding environments of aerospace, defense, and telecommunications systems, reliability is not just desirable, it's essential. For…
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What are MIL-STD-1760-Compliant Connectors?
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…
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MIL-Aero Sensors & Sensor Connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights MIL-Aero sensors and connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. MIL-Aero Sensors & Sensor Connectors Nicomatic’s CMM series is a trusted choice for integrators and system designers working on MIL-approved sensors. These 2 mm pitch connectors are compliant with MIL-DTL-83513 and offer a high level of modularity, signal integrity, and resistance…
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May 2025 Connector Industry News
Upcoming industry events, as well as recent award, partnership, promotion, personnel, facility, distribution, standards, association, and certification news from across the connector industry. May 2025 Connector Industry News May 2025 Connector Industry News > Event News ECIA’s 2025 Executive Conference Committee announced this year’s conference theme will be…
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Amphenol Aerospace Celebrates a Century of Connectivity
AAO, founded by a group of 15 engineers in the early 1920s, has provided interconnects to every major military program, from subsea to naval to ground to air to space. Today, Amphenol Aerospace is the world’s largest supplier of military and aerospace connectors, but the company began its…
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Magnetic Wearable Connectors for Harsh Environments
Magnetic soldier wearable interconnects meet the unique demands of military personnel and equipment. Designed for critical mission success of field decision makers, these connectors offer seamless interoperability and reliable performance across military units. [caption id="attachment_48274" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Amphenol PCD’s Gladiator is specially designed for soldier-worn applications, including data…
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Update on the Connector Industry: 2025 Off to Good Start
We are already three months into the new year; so how is the connector industry performing so far? Based on good January and February connector sales, Bishop & Associates is bullish on the 2025 connector industry. Bishop & Associates is bullish in the 2025 connector industry. January and…
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What are MIL-STD-1560 Connectors?
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.[market_ad position="1"] Interoperability…
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Interconnects for Soldier Applications Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights interconnects for soldier-worn applications from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. Interconnects For Soldier Applications The Amphenol Ltd. Stingray 7 Series, available from PEI-Genesis, offers compact, low profile, metal shelled connectors that withstand exposure to moisture, dust, dirt, and chemicals commonly encountered by first…
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April 2025 New Connectivity Products
New-to-market connectivity products, including interconnects, wire, cable, and cable assemblies, sensors, antennas, materials, accessories, tools, and development kits. April 2025 New Connectivity Products April 2025 New Connectivity Products > Interconnects, etc. binder’s Easy Locking Connector (ELC) of the 570 series, originally developed for homecare applications and already proven in many medical devices, is now also available in black…
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VITA Standards Benefit Embedded Computing
Military communications applications such as radars, jammers, and super signal interference, use VITA solutions to accommodate a high number of connections in tight density. VITA (VMEbus International Trade Association) standards promote open system architectures for critical embedded computing with an emphasis on developing those standards in a highly transparent…
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SWaP-Optimized Solutions for the Future Soldier
For survivability and operational efficiency, gear that is lightweight and relatively easy to carry is a necessity. Miniaturized connectors help meet these goals. The term “future soldier” was developed in the 1990s to describe combat soldiers outfitted with high-tech uniforms and equipment on the battlefield. While the term…
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AI, 6G, and Robotics Drive Connector Industry Growth in 2024
Bishop & Associates reports that 2024 was a good year for the connector industry, growing +5.6%, thanks to advancements in new and emerging technologies. The connector industry had a reasonably good year in 2024, increasing sales by +5.6. Orders were also positive, up +8.6% year-over-year. Order backlog was…
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What are MIL-DTL-22992?
Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-22992 Connectors MIL-DTL-22992 connectors are the largest heavy-duty cylindrical connectors used for high-power military and industrial applications. The MIL-DTL-22992 military specification defines its interface, materials, performance, and environmental resistance. The 22992 connector features threaded coupling for secure connections and has high resistance to moisture, shock, and…
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USB/Enhanced USB Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights USB/Enhanced USB connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. USB/Enhanced USB JAE developed the MA07 Series USB and DisplayPort transmission-compatible connector and harness solution to address the increasing demand for transmitting video signals between ECUs and displays, and for communicating with PCs, smartphones,…
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What’s the Forecast: Weather Satellite Technologies
Weather forecasting uses scientific principles, mathematical models, and knowledge of past weather patterns to predict future weather patterns. While forecasts are dependent on human analysis, interpretation, and judgment, the increasing sophistication of data collection continues to improve accuracy. Satellites have become an essential tool in this process and…
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Enhancing Naval Combat and Intelligence Systems
In the demanding environment of naval defense, integrating advanced interconnect solutions is crucial to the efficiency and effectiveness of shipboard combat systems. This case study explains the connector impact on naval intelligence systems. Naval defense systems must be designed to deliver unfailing reliability in conditions that are —…
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Molex Acquires AirBorn
Molex’s blockbuster acquisition enables the company to expand into the military and aerospace market. This strategic investment in innovation and technology will help one of the industry’s leading companies shape the future of the aerospace and defense category. Molex has acquired AirBorn in a deal that closed on…
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What are VITA 67 Connectors?
Meet the Connector: VITA 67 VITA 67 connectors are a family of standards under the VITA (VMEbus International Trade Association) organization, specifically designed for coaxial and RF (Radio Frequency) interconnects in VPX systems (VITA 46). These connectors are used to integrate high-frequency signals into ruggedized embedded computing systems,…
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VG-Approved Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights VG-approved interconnects from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. VG-approved interconnects The JK06 Series from JAE is a waterproof circular connector developed for railway vehicles and related electronic equipment. Designed in accordance with the VG95234 specifications, JK06 is also compliant with NFF61-030 (French standard…
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January 2025 New Connectivity Products
New-to-market connectivity products, including interconnects, wire, cable, and cable assemblies, sensors, antennas, materials, accessories, tools, and development kits. January 2025 New Connectivity Products January 2025 New Connectivity Products > Interconnects, etc. Weidmuller USA introduced Basic Line Series B, cost-effective unmanaged switches that ensure high EMC compatibility and extended temperature ranges. With numerous certifications for a wide range of…
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Open Standards Provide a Path to Innovation
Standards related to electronic devices guarantee interoperability and expands market opportunity for high-volume production that reduces cost and encourages collaboration as well as competition to develop the most effective solution. A universe of standards plays a critical role in the complex world we live in. Imagine having different…
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NADCAP Enhances Quality in Aerospace & Defense Manufacturing
By bringing together industry leaders to audit and uphold best practices for manufacturing processes, NADCAP supports safety and performance in a field where the stakes couldn't be higher. In the fast-evolving landscape of aerospace and defense manufacturing, maintaining the highest standards of quality and reliability is critical to…
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The Top 100 Connector Companies in 2023: Product Type
What companies led the connector industry in 2023? In this final article in the four-part series based on the new market research report by Bishop & Associates, we learn about the leading companies by product type. Bishop & Associates’ new 10-chapter research report provides a comprehensive analysis of…
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What are Overbraided Cables?
Meet the Connector: Overbraided Cables Overbraiding adds an added protective layer (or layers) to cables and wire harnesses. The process of overbraiding is designed to be cost effective and versatile. It is accomplished with a wide range of fibers and different braided design configurations to best meet the…
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Military-Grade Circular Connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights military-grade circular connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. Military-grade circular connectors The JL10 Series from JAE features an adopted one-touch lock mechanism with superior mating and unmating operability for mating function ease. The JL10 receptacle offers a hybrid one-touch lock and threaded…
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CCA: A High-Tech Solution for Advanced Air Combat Operations
Collaborative combat aircraft puts new technology into service faster and more cost effectively by pairing unmanned fighter aircraft equipped with the latest weapons, sensors, and battle management systems with older manned fighter aircraft. The collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) program proposed by the U.S. Air Force teams autonomous (unmanned)…
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New Combat Systems Set to Conquer the Future
New battlefield strategies and combat systems that network dismounted soldiers for “any-sensor, any-shooter” tactics are driving technological changes in digital gear needing advanced interconnects. By Matt McAlonis, Engineering Fellow, Aerospace Defense and Marine, TE Connectivity, and Franck Kolczak, Senior Business Development Manager-Defense Market, TE Connectivity A joint warfighting…
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The Top 10 Connector Companies in 2023: Regional Leaders
What companies led the connector industry in 2023? In this second article in a series, Bishop & Associates identifies the leading companies by region. Quality, design, electrical, and mechanical engineers, along with purchasing personnel, must identify the best companies with whom to partner for their connector requirements. This…
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What are Quadrax Connectors?
Meet the Connector: Quadrax Connectors Commonly used in aerospace, military, and industrial applications, quadrax connectors contain four conductors arranged in a quad configuration within a single connector housing, designed to carry high-speed Ethernet or other differential signals with minimal crosstalk. Quadrax connectors evolved from the broader category of…
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Filtered Connectors Product Roundup 2024
This week’s Product Roundup highlights filtered connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. Filtered connectors Amphenol Filter Connectors from PEI-Genesis offer EMI protection in one compact interconnect device, making them ideal for military and aerospace applications. In the most common configuration, capacitors are mounted inside the connector between…
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Pilot Helmet Technologies: Enhancing Safety, Precision, and Awareness
From advanced visors with augmented reality to biometric sensors and real-time data integration, modern pilot helmets are revolutionizing air combat and aviation safety. Early pilot helmets served the sole and essential purpose of protecting the heads of aviators. However, with every decade of aviation history, additional functions and…
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MIL-STD-1553: The Global Standard for Military and Aerospace Data Buses
MIL-STD-1553 has been incorporated in every type of air, land, and sea vehicle built by the U.S. military in the last half-century. There is something eminently satisfying about a technology that simply works. One of the more enduring standards in the mil-aerospace industry is MIL-STD-1553, which defines the…
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An Eventful Decade of Change and Growth for Molex
In the decade since its acquisition by Koch Industries, the Illinois company’s expansion has occurred in tandem with momentous technological changes impacting every market in the electronics industry. Molex CEO Joe Nelligan reflects on this period of transformation and shares his insights on what the future holds. Molex’s…
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What are Nuclear Grade Connectors?
Meet the Connector: Nuclear Grade Connectors Nuclear grade connectors must be exceptionally reliable and rugged enough to withstand extreme conditions such as chemical exposure, high temperatures, radiation, and seismic activity. Connectors used in the nuclear energy industry must be exceptionally reliable and rugged enough to withstand extreme conditions such…
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Radiation-resistant interconnects
This week’s Product Roundup highlights radiation-resistant interconnects from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. Radiation-resistant interconnects SpaceNXT QT Series from Smiths Interconnect offers improved phase stability over a wide range of temperatures found in space environments while meeting all NASA/ESA outgassing specifications. It is equipped with ETFE radiation resistant…
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Artificial Intelligence: Impact on the Connector Industry
Computer-intensive applications have stimulated the growth of a large-scale purpose-built AI infrastructure. The connector industry will benefit from the AI evolution due to demands for exceptional speed, reduced latency, and energy efficiency. Artificial intelligence exploded into public awareness on November 30, 2022, with the release of ChatGPT and its…
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AMETEK Aids NASA’s Space Weather Research
High quality headers and feedthrough plates assisted in the successful mission to gather information on auroras and high-altitude winds. The results will potentially improve satellites and communication systems. [caption id="attachment_46078" align="alignleft" width="370"] NASA’s Dissipation Sounding Rocket Launches into Alaskan Aurora. Image credit: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.[/caption] At…
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What are TCA Connectors?
Meet the Connector: TCA Connectors TCA connectors, or thermal compression anisotropic (TCA) connectors, are technically not connectors, but rather a termination technique. This seldom-used process was devised in the 1970s for use in electronics and telecommunications applications. TCA connectors use a liquid strip or solid pad of conductive…
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ATEX-approved Interconnects Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights ATEX-approved interconnects from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. ATEX-approved Interconnects The new Broadcom ACNV260E, available from Avnet, is an optically coupled gate that combines an AlGaAs light emitting diode and an integrated photo detector in a widebody package. ACNV260E is designed and manufactured…
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August 2024 Connector Industry News
Upcoming industry events, as well as recent award, partnership, promotion, personnel, facility, distribution, standards, association, and certification news from across the connector industry. August 2024 Connector Industry News August 2024 Connector Industry News > Event News Registration is now open for the 73rd annual IWCS Cable & Connectivity…
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Soldier Wearables Provide Safety and Connectivity
Protecting soldiers, law enforcement, and first responders is easier with new connected communications, navigation, armoring, and tactical wearables. Component interoperability makes it possible to link different equipment makers, eras, and units. Soldier wearables have emerged as crucial tools for enhancing operational effectiveness, situational awareness, and personal safety. Soldier…
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eVTOL is Ready to Rise Above Urban Congestion
A new urban mobility solution for today’s congested cities, eVTOL enables passengers to take to the skies, no pilot required. Electrified, autonomous, and responsive, eVTOL offers an airborne route into a new transportation future.[market_ad position="1"] A convergence of high-speed technologies, high-capacity batteries, and autonomous advancements have enabled the…
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Enhanced USBs Bring Data and Power to Harsh Environments
Enhanced USBs consist of a standard interface in a military shell and come in all the same versions as regular USBs. USB (universal serial bus) connectors are widely used to connect electronic devices and peripherals. The popularity of USBs stems from their compatibility with a range of platforms…
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What are EN3645 and EN3646 Connectors?
Meet the Connector: EN3645 and EN3646 Connectors EN3645 and EN3646 connectors are named for European technical standards (EN). They are similar to MIL-DTL-38999 Series III and MIL-DTL-26482, respectively. They have additional requirements, specifically in terms of performance under lightning strikes and resistance to fluids.[market_ad position="1"] Scoop-proof EN3645 connectors…
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D-Subminiature Connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights D-Subminiature connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. D-Subminiature connectors Amphenol's high power D-Sub connector with 75A current rating is available in cable (solder/crimp) and board versions and conforms to UL1977 spec (T-Rise at rated current below RTI value of housing material). D-Subminiature…
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Testing is Vital for Electronics Performance and Reliability
From chips to connectors, from qualification to production, testing is a necessary step to ensuring that electronic components function as expected. We all love our technology until it doesn’t work properly or at all. When a tool or convenience that we’ve come to rely on fails, it’s frustrating.…
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High Performance Interconnect Solutions for Test Equipment
Electronic systems that can stand up to the demands of harsh military, industrial, and transportation environments depend on interconnects that have been tested to the max — in system designs and in the test equipment itself. The common goal of all test equipment is to aid manufacturers in…
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What are NMD Connectors?
Meet the Connector: NMD (Network Measurement Division) Connectors NMD (Network Measurement Division) connectors are used specifically in network measurement equipment and setups. The name for these precision connectors was coined by Agilent Technologies, the Hewlett Packard business unit that produced the Agilent 8510A and 8720A analyzers and was…
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Connectors for Test & Measurement Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights connectors for Test & Measurement from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. Connectors for Test & Measurement Automotive testing equipment must be highly sophisticated and sensitive, and at the same time, exceptionally robust so that it can keep putting the vehicles and components through…
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May 2024 New Connectivity Products
New-to-market connectivity products, including interconnects, wire, cable, and cable assemblies, sensors, antennas, materials, accessories, tools, and development kits. May 2024 New Connectivity Products May 2024 New Connectivity Products > Interconnects, etc. Hirose has expanded its DF60 Series to include a rugged right-angle crimp socket that offers design flexibility and space-savings in demanding, power-hungry applications. Enabling a compact design,…
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Software-Driven Radio Reinvigorates Old Technology
SDR has brought about a new golden age of radio that can deliver secure, interoperable, and quality broadcast connections even under duress with the help of sophisticated miniaturized and RF interconnects. Software-defined radio has brought one of the earliest forms of wireless communication into the 21st century, giving…
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How to Select Electrical Connectors for LEO Satellites
The challenges of space are extreme: Outgassing, UV radiation, vacuum and oxygen conditions, and the unique harsh environment factors of low Earth orbit require careful consideration in component selection. Humanity launched the first rocket into space in 1949 and in the decades since, we’ve sent manned space shuttles,…
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What are ARINC 801 Connectors?
Meet the Connector: ARINC 801 ARINC 801 connectors are precision fiber optic, multi-channel connectors and termini designed for harsh environments and high-speed, high-performance data transfer. They comply with ARINC 801 specifications and 38999 Series III standards. They feature removable alignment sleeve retainers and have the advantage of fitting…
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MIL-Spec Rectangular Connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights rectangular MIL-spec connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. Rectangular MIL-Spec connectors Amphenol’s HDB3 rectangular connectors from Avnet incorporate a higher density contact pattern and lower mated height than Amphenol’s standard low mating force rectangular connectors, making them ideal for military applications.…
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April 2024 Connector Industry News
Upcoming industry events, as well as recent award, partnership, promotion, personnel, facility, distribution, standards, association, and certification news from across the connector industry. April 2024 Connector Industry News April 2024 Connector Industry News > Award News TE Connectivity received the 2024 World's Most Ethical Companies recognition by Ethisphere,…
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Connector Supplier’s Newest eBook Shines with Bright Ideas
Bright Ideas - Electrification, Sustainability, and Connected Technology, the latest innovations and connectivity solutions for this age of rapid technological advances. Download your copy of our latest eBook here! Connector Supplier’s latest eBook, highlights innovations that improve the way our devices function. As the list of connected and…
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Sabrina Brossard: A New Generation of Industry Leadership
Many connector companies get their start as family businesses. It’s more unusual for a company to remain in the hands of the founding family after decades of business. Meet Sabrina Brossard, the third generation of the Fischer founding family to lead the group. In June 2023, Sabrina Brossard…
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Connector Industry Forecast for 2024
A year ago, pandemic-era supply chain disruptions and uneven demand continued to weigh on the connector industry. As we enter 2024, these factors have improved but new technology trends and other uncertainties are altering the landscape. Here’s what to expect in the months to come. As we enter…
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Design Planning to Insure Performance in Harsh Environments
The range and expansion of electronic applications today has extended the need for analysis and preparation of circuit designs to survive new operating settings in extreme harsh environments. Navigation electronics that have been employed in automobiles for navigating our city streets are now playing a role in deep…
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What are Jam Nut Connectors?
Meet the Connector: Jam Nut Connectors Jam nut connectors feature a jam nut (hex nut) that screws onto a circular connector’s threads to mount it and secure the electrical connection. Jam nut connectors are used to save space in crowded panels, walls, or boxes. They also improve stability,…
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Aircraft Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights connectors used in aerospace from leading suppliers. Aircraft connectors SAS/PCIe 4.0 (U.2&U.3) connectors from Amphenol Communications Solutions, used in OLED display applications for in-flight entertainment systems, come with 16 GT/s (PCIe lanes) or 24 Gb/s (SAS lanes) speeds to meet the demands of next-generation servers.…
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A Year of Connector Industry Intelligence
Bishop & Associates is the electronics industry’s best resource for insights into the interconnect industry, including deep dives into key suppliers, products, and markets. See 2023’s full roster of reports. Bishop & Associates has kept a close watch on interconnect industry for more than 30 years, providing connector…
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Counterfeit Components Ground Airlines
American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest Airlines are among the companies experiencing pain due to counterfeit parts entering the supply chain. Major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airline, Virgin Australia, Ryanair, and TAP Air Portugal, have had to take more than 100 planes out of service…
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SC23 Supercomputer and HPC Showcase
The Denver Convention Center hosted SC23, this year’s edition of the Supercomputer conference, with the theme of i am hpc highlighting the depth and diversity of high-performance computing. The six-day event featured 90 research papers, 51 workshops, 37 tutorials, and 15 expert panels that explored the hardware, software,…
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Top 10 Connector Suppliers by Geography: A Look at Regional Leaders
Bishop & Associates evaluated more than 1,500 connector companies to determine the top-ranking suppliers. See the Top 10 suppliers in your region. Design engineers and purchasing personnel strive to identify the best connector companies for their design and purchasing requirements. However, identifying the best companies is not an…
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What are Nano-D Connectors?
Meet the Connector: Nano-D Nano-D connectors, along with Micro-D connectors, were developed in the 1970s as a variation of D-sub (D-subminiature) connectors. ITT Cannon (formerly Cannon) holds the trademark for the D-sub and its smaller variants, although other companies offer their own compatible versions. Like the Micro-D and…
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Space-Grade Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights space-grade connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. Space-grade connectors Omnetics Nano-D Bi-Lobe connectors are now available with a quick latch system. These latches require no tools and offer great ease in handling. Bi-Lobe connectors utilize Omnetics’ rugged and reliable flex pin contact…
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December 2023 Connector Industry News
Upcoming industry events, as well as recent award, partnership, promotion, personnel, facility, distribution, standards, association, and certification news from across the connector industry. December 2023 Connector Industry News December 2023 Connector Industry News > Award News DigiKey won four MarCom Awards in the 2023 international creative competition for marketing and…
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Post-Pandemic State of the Supply Chain
Interconnect suppliers have weathered the post-pandemic recovery period with resilience and creativity to keep supply chains flowing and manage a mix of backlogs and inventory during a period of changing demand. As we approach the end of the third year of life altered by the pandemic, the electronics…
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Remote Locations: How to Design Interconnect Solutions for Harsh Environments
Remote access to maintain electronic systems used in many harsh environments can be difficult or impossible. Strategic selection of interconnects can extend the life and ease the maintenance of this equipment. Electronic systems and equipment used in hard-to-reach locations such as space, mountain-top observatories, deep sea rovers, or…
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Five Military Trends Paving the Way for Harsh Environment Connectivity
The military requires connectors that are as small, fast, and lightweight as possible while being durable and secure. Learn more about products that fit the bill. Military trends require connectors that are as small, fast, and lightweight as possible while being durable and secure. Even in the harshest…
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What are SMB/SMC Connectors?
Meet the Connector: SMB/SMC Connectors The SMB (Sub-Miniature type B) and SMC (Sub-Miniature type C) coaxial RF connectors were first developed in the 1960s as sub-miniature connectors for fitment on RF cable and equipment. The SMB offers quick connect/disconnect snap-on mating, while the SMC has a #10-32UNF-threaded screw-type…
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Rack & Panel Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights rack & panel connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. Rack & panel connectors ITT Cannon Trident Multiway connectors supplied by PEI-Genesis are cost-effective rectangular connectors designed for exceptional performance in harsh environments and tested to MIL-STD-202 and IEC 512. They have…
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November 2023 New Connectivity Products
New-to-market connectivity products, including interconnects, wire, cable, and cable assemblies, sensors, antennas, materials, accessories, tools, and development kits. November 2023 New Connectivity Products November 2023 New Connectivity Products > Interconnects, etc. Amphenol Communications Solutions’ MicroSpace High Voltage selective loaded crimp-to-wire connector platform has a unique design that enables LV214 Severity-2 and performs at 3.81 mm, 6.35 mm, and…
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Design Considerations for Space-Deployed Satellite Hardware
From tiny CubeSats to SpaceVPX satellites, the night sky is full of new constellations. Selecting components that can handle launch stressors, radiation, extreme temperatures, and other space challenges is essential to the mission. In the past three years alone, so many thousands of satellites have been launched into…
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Building Resilient Robotic Systems for Harsh Environments
High-reliability connectors and cable assemblies play a crucial role in ensuring the functionality and longevity of robotic systems and devices that operate in space, ocean, and downhole environments. Developing robots for deployment in harsh and unforgiving environments, from the depths of the ocean to outer space and everywhere…
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Emerging Space Technologies Call for Harsh Environment Connectors
As current space systems advance and new technologies develop, the space industry will evolve drastically over the next few decades. The United States, Russia, and China have major space programs; the EU, India, Canada, Japan, and others are growing their footprint in space; and 80 countries have satellites…
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What are MIL-DTL-55116 Connectors?
Meet the Connector: MTL-DTL-55116 Connectors The MIL-DTL-55116 connector is an electrical connector that has been used for more than five decades to connect audio and radio frequency (RF) devices in military and aerospace applications. It was introduced by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) in 1969 to…
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VITA connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights VITA connectors from leading suppliers. VITA connectors Avnet supplies TE’s MULTIGIG RT 3 connectors. Supporting speeds of 32+ Gb/s, these are among the fastest rugged backplane connectors for embedded computing or VPX (Versatile Performance Switching) systems currently on the market. The ruggedized design…
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Cables, Connectors, Waveguides, and Hybrid Products for up to THz at IMS 2023
IMS 2023, the premier worldwide RF microwave symposium, revealed exponential gains in next-generation interconnects for wireless communications technologies. Take a tour of the highlights with RF expert Dave Shaff. This year’s International Microwave Symposium (IMS) reestablished the event as the premier world level expo for RF through THz…
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Specifying Space Connectors
Space deployment involves major engineering challenges. Evaluating risks and potential problems is an essential part of the process when specifying space connectors. Space deployment brings a multitude of major engineering challenges, and an essential part of the component selection process involves correctly specifying space connectors. Before deciding on…
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What are MIL-DTL-32689 Connectors?
Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-32689 MIL-DTL-32689 is a relatively new MIL-spec defines high-density, lightweight circular connectors that are well-suited for military and aerospace applications because of their quick disconnection, tri-start threaded coupling, and environment-resistant features. MIL-DTL-32689 provides multi-sourcing for Mini/Micro-D38999 Series III connectors, miniature versions of MIL-DTL-38999. At about 70% lighter and…
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D-Sub Connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights D-Sub connectors from leading suppliers. D-Sub Connectors Avnet supplies TE Connectivity's AMPLIMITE family of D-subminiature connectors. These D-subminiature connectors are the most popular type of input/output (I/O) connectors in use today. Established and proven, they are rugged, easily used, and have been widely…
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July 2023 New Connectivity Products
New-to-market connectivity products, including interconnects, wire, cable and cable assemblies, sensors, antennas, materials, accessories, tools, and development kits. July 2023 New Connectivity Products July 2023 New Connectivity Products > Interconnects, etc. Smiths Interconnect released its highly anticipated space-qualified version of the KVPX connector series. This significant advancement reinforces the company's commitment to meeting the rigorous demands of the…
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Soldier Wearable Technologies Advance Military Operations
Wearable and portable technologies are giving soldiers superhuman strength, night vision, and powerful battlefield intelligence. In conflicts around the world, soldier wearables and portable military technologies help military personnel enhance their physical capabilities, stay in contact with command centers and fellow soldiers, maintain situational awareness, reduce risks on…
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Unique RF Interconnect Solutions for Mobile 5G Networks Aid in Disaster Recovery
RF interconnect solutions are critical in mobile 5G communications networks. New solutions help seamlessly power these essential communications networks when traditional networks are disrupted by disaster. 5G technologies deliver high data speeds, ultra-low latency, enhanced reliability, enormous network capacity, and increased availability. Mobile connectivity solutions make it possible…
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What are Micro Circular Connectors?
Meet the Connector: Micro Circular The push to make mil/aero electronic equipment smaller and lighter for easier portability while maintaining its necessary ruggedness requires smaller, lighter, rugged connectors. Enter microminiature and nanominiature circular connectors. Micro or nano circular connectors feature smaller pin and jack diameters and the pins…
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38999 Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights 38999s from leading suppliers. 38999 Providers Powell supplies Glenair Series 806 Mil-Aero Micro Miniature D38999 Connectors and Cable Assemblies. Series 806 offers significant size and weight savings while meeting key performance benchmarks for a broad range of applications such as commercial and military…
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Building Better Interconnects for Space-Grade Applications
Designing electronics that leave Earth calls for a more thoughtful approach, from specialized materials to high-reliability form factors to close relationships with space agencies and regulatory organizations. Space-grade connectors can go where no man has gone before. Precision-engineered and specifically qualified, these exceptional interconnects are fit to endure…
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New RF Interconnect Designs Address Shortcomings of the SMP Family of Connectors in Today’s Aerospace and Defense Applications
Innovative RF interconnect designs, address specific needs not fulfilled by standard designs such as the SMP connector. The aerospace and defense industries count on dependable, durable RF systems for mission-critical electronics applications such as intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) systems, SATCOM and communications systems, electronic warfare (EW), missile guidance,…
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What are MIL-DTL-83526 Connectors?
Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-83526 MIL-DTL-83526 (M83526) connectors have consistent and predictable optical performance and are rugged enough to withstand military field applications. MIL-DTL-83526 defines circular, environment-resistant, hermaphroditic interface, fiber-optic connectors. The specification details their characteristics, performance, and testing criteria. As expected, fiber optic connectors perform critical communication functions…
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Bayonet Connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights bayonet connectors from leading suppliers. Bayonet connectors Teledyne Reynolds’ 1807 high-voltage connectors come in shielded and non-shielded configurations with either bayonet or threaded coupling nuts. Plug kits are available for customer-fabricated cable assemblies using the company’s specified wire. Teledyne Reynolds leads the connector…
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Hidden Connectors
Sleek designs, subtle colors, and hidden locations help connectors blend in when applications need to look good or not be seen at all. A visible connector is easier to mate than a hidden connector. Color coding, accessible positioning, and LEDs help operators make the correct selection in environments…
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How to Design Optical Fiber Cables for Interconnect Solutions in Harsh Environments
For harsh environments, such as avionics and defense, key issues related to high temperatures, vibration, and shock must be considered to maximize the efficiency of optical technologies. For two decades, the need for ever-increasing capacity and speed to move data through our electronic devices has generated the deployment…
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Strong 2022 Sales Lead into Optimistic Start for 2023
But what does 2023 hold for connector sales? Bishop & Associates' Ron Bishop takes a look at the technologies and markets that use connectors to give us some clues about what the year ahead will bring. The final connector industry sales results from 2022 are coming in, and…
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Fiber Optic Connectors for Military Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights fiber optic connector products for military applications from leading suppliers. Fiber Optic Connector Products for Military Applications Optical fiber cables offered by Axon’ Cable are compatible with a wide range of standardized contacts or connectors, including ARINC801, MIL, ST, FC, and LC connectors.…
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Top 10 Great Reads From 2022
Check out the Top 10 most popular articles from our 2022 MIL/Aero coverage. Read, learn, and enjoy. Products that begin with the military tend to migrate across the electronics industry, influencing electronic design and introducing powerful strategies to other markets. Our readers enjoy learning about the products, applications,…
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Top 10 Suppliers of Connectors for the Military/Aerospace Market
The military/aerospace market encompasses a wide variety of applications requiring numerous high-speed, rugged, and high-reliability interconnects. Who are the top connector companies that serve this market? The military/aerospace market is among the largest users of interconnect products. In 2021, military spending reached a record $2.1 trillion, a figure…
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