To reduce heat and improve speeds, twinax cable assemblies are replacing PCBs in next-generation datacom equipment. The links inside a switch that connect the quad small form factor pluggables (QSFPs) at the faceplate to application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) at the heart of the box have become signal superhighways. The capacity and the number of  I/ORead More

The new Class 4 UL classification standard was published in August 2022 in Article 726 of the 2023 National Electrical Code (NEC), specifically for Class 4 cables intended for use with fault-managed power systems. These requirements cover 60-250 °C (140-482 °F), single- and multiple-conductor, jacketed cables for use as fixed wiring within buildings. Class 4 Power, alsoRead More

Meet the Connector: LC Connectors LC connectors are small form factor fiber optic connectors designed for making fast connections in high-density applications. They are a miniaturized version of the earlier SC fiber connector (50% smaller) and feature a square plastic housing with a 1.25 mm ceramic ferrule. Like the SC, LCs utilize a push-pull design,Read More

The unique connectivity requirements of the aerospace market continue to motivate ongoing innovation. Minimal size and weight, resistance to shock and vibration, high data rate speeds, and high reliability are critical attributes for even the smallest components in aircraft. The MIL-DTL-38999 series of connectors has been around since the 1960s. Its smaller contacts and higherRead More

Hermetic connectors protect critical electronic systems from harsh environments. Designing in these specialized components requires strategic planning to reduce costs, mitigate risks, increase performance, and maximize longevity. Look up. Millions of hermetic connectors are in the skies above us, creating essential links between cables and electronic circuits in aerospace and defense systems. Found in satellites,Read More

New ruggedized connector solutions reach for the stars with materials and designs that deliver high reliability, flexibility, cost-savings, and meet the strict qualifications for top performance in space. From high vibration and shock during launch, to extreme temperatures, radiation, and electrostatic discharge (ESD), equipment leaving Earth’s atmosphere must endure exceptional rigors, making ultra-high reliability theRead More

Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-28840 Connectors MIL-DTL-28840 connectors are high-density circular connectors used for harsh environment military applications. Originally developed for the Navy, they are used in shipboard applications for surface craft of all sizes as well as submarines and unmanned underwater vehicles. They are water-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and can endure water pressure while maintaining a secureRead More

This week’s Product Roundup highlights MIL-Spec-approved rectangular connectors from leading suppliers. MIL-Spec-Approved Rectangular Connectors   Cinch Dura-Con MIL-DTL-83513 Micro-D Connectors are designed for applications that require a rugged, high-performance, densely compacted connector and shorter signal paths. They are widely specified for satellites, miniaturized military and aerospace electronics, and data processing equipment. Dura-Con uses highly durableRead More

Upcoming industry events, as well as connector industry news including recent awards, partnerships, promotions, personnel, facilities, distribution, standards, associations, and certifications. September 2022 Connector Industry News September 2022 Connector Industry News > Event News Registration is now open for IPC APEX EXPO 2023, offering new courses, new instructors, and IPC E-Textiles. IPC APEX EXPO 2023,Read More

Electronic power and signal connectors will play a key role in the exploration, development, management, and distribution of sustainable energy production. A funny thing happened on the way to American energy production independence. Reducing our reliance on not-so-friendly foreign countries for such a critical resource had become a national security priority. Starting around 2009, aRead More

With the advancement of cobots, increased safety concerns, and the need to reduce downtime and costs, there is a much greater demand for networking automation in production facilities.  In today’s factory and warehouse environment, the amount of data that needs to be transmitted, collected, analyzed, and stored continues to grow. This trend is creating aRead More

Meet the Connector: Board-to-Board Connectors Board-to-board (BTB) connectors are used to transmit signals between printed circuit boards (PCBs). They are made by many connector manufacturers and come in a variety of styles and materials. BTB connectors are among the commonly used connector types. Their evolution has been influenced by their use in an ever-growing numberRead More