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

Solid-state lighting (SSL) connectors are interconnects developed for LED (and OLED) illumination products. DigiKey described these products this way: “Products in the solid-state lighting connector family are interconnect products designed and marketed with particular focus on the needs of LED-based illumination applications. In general, this implies a focus on low product and assembly costs, predominantlyRead More

This week’s Product Roundup highlights PCB connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. PCB connectors Lumberg’s RAST 2.5 connector for individual conductors is another solution for secure connection technology in applications with the highest demands on mechanical stability. It features a compact design and lateral locking hooks that secure the connector firmly on the PCBRead 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

An ultrasound cable is a multi-conductor micro-coaxial cable assembly that links an ultrasound transducer or probe to the imaging system. It carries dozens to hundreds of individually shielded signal channels between the transducer array and the console. These assemblies are typically custom-built per probe and imaging-system platform, with channel count, conductor gauge, and connectors specifiedRead More

This week’s Product Roundup highlights plastic circular connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. Plastic Circular Connectors The Micro Circular Series utilizes Omnetics’ rugged and reliable Flex-Pin contact system. Spaced on 50 mil (1.27mm) centerlines, they feature a mated length of less than 12.4 mm. Both the male and female contacts are shrouded by theRead 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