Tribology is the study of the science and engineering of interacting surfaces that are in relative motion, and includes the associated principles of friction, lubrication, and wear. So how does tribology relate to connector interfaces?   Although connector contact surfaces are usually not intended to be in continual relative motion, often the surfaces do experienceRead More

Rugged connectors are required for applications in a wide variety of settings, from sterile medical facilities to downhole oil and gas rigs. Key considerations for specification include the environment, the function, and the performance requirements.   Rugged Connector Checklist Rugged connectors must be able to function in environments and under circumstances that would challenge typicalRead More

Learn more about the technical guidelines that drive connector development for corrosive environments to ensure a long-lasting and reliable solution in harsh conditions.   Corrosion Considerations in Connector Development Corrosion is a process known to everyone who owns a car. In essence, rust is the corroded product of iron: Iron atoms slowly detach from theRead More

It may be necessary to replace copper wiring with aluminum in automotive applications to reduce vehicle weight and achieve the aggressive future fuel-economy standards, but design engineers must be mindful of the significant differences between aluminum and copper wire terminations.   Aluminum wiring has been used for many years in several different industries. Utility companies have successfullyRead More

Today we see all types of robotic devices that do everything from vacuum your floors to clean up nuclear waste. Originally focused on industrial and hazardous applications, robots are now appearing in warehouses, hospitals, and even the home. The concept of automated devices that extend human capabilities has sparked the imagination of people for manyRead More

When you specify a connector type, you also choose a supplier. Beyond the connector’s design and functionality, there are a number of factors to consider when choosing a connector manufacturer for medical systems.   Many connector companies are very successful, generating continuous growth in revenue and earnings over many years, but it takes even more toRead More

Today’s complex operating environments require connectors to offer higher density in a smaller footprint while being more rugged, robust, reliable, and lighter weight. Spring-enabled connector technology offers an array of options to conquer these obstacles.      Circular connectors are crucial to the successful performance of electrical devices across a variety of industries. These small,Read More

Can the same connector be used in both through-hole reflow and surface-mount device processes? Weidmuller looks at how pin length can make all the difference in meeting the requirements of IPC-A-610 E. Today’s PCB is a platform for electronic components that creates circuits varying from simple to highly sophisticated. Requirements such as the miniaturization of components,Read More

Manufacturers of rolling stock require high-quality electrical connection systems, and there is increasing demand for custom-tailored railway cabling solutions from connector manufacturers.      Like those in traditional mechanical engineering fields, manufacturers of rail vehicles face the increasing challenges of higher costs and time-to-market pressures. Electrical connections and cabling are one area where they canRead More

With new electronic technologies aimed at growing US rail ridership, physical limitations challenge system engineers to adopt greater flexibility in interconnection requirements.      Designers seeking new opportunities for competitive advantages in railway vehicles are constantly imposing greater demands on electrical and electronic system interconnections: Wi-Fi connectivity helps attract and retain ridership; infotainment screens enhance the riderRead More

End launch connectors are intended for critical applications that require high-performance results. Bishop & Associate’s Dave Shaff looks at the technology that drives that performance and offers a primer on specification for particular applications.   End launch connectors are used to transition microwave energy from coaxial to planar transmission-line structures. Test boards, chip demo sets, andRead More

The primary purpose of a connector design review is to evaluate if the new product meets customer requirements. Here, Bill Garver of APEX Electrical Interconnection Consultants discusses the steps in the process and how to navigate them successfully.   There are usually several design reviews conducted throughout the new product development cycle for electrical connectors. These reviews occurRead More