From data center interconnects and energy-efficient optical networks, this year’s show highlighted advances in coherent transmission systems, photonic integration for AI applications, and intelligent network automation that will reshape global connectivity. The 50th anniversary edition of the Optical Fiber Communication Conference and Exhibition reflected the enormous growth and enthusiasm for the future of optical networkingRead More

The interconnect industry’s biggest gathering celebrated its 30th anniversary this year. Technologist Bob Hult has attended every one of them. Here’s what captured his attention this year. DesignCon 2025 marked the 30th anniversary of this premier technical conference for designers of high-performance chips and printed circuit board systems. An increasing number of attendees are drawnRead More

Seven Considerations for Connector Selection for Industrial and Embedded Systems The nature of industrial and embedded systems has changed significantly in recent years as equipment is afforded less space and operates with tighter tolerances under harsher conditions. These factors, coupled with the increased data volumes from the rise of IoT, mean the integrity and durabilityRead More

This week’s Product Roundup highlights high-speed cable assemblies from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. High-Speed Cable Assemblies Times Microwave’s LMR cable solution from PEI Genesis features a full range of highly flexible, rugged, low loss braided cables designed for optimal performance. These cables are built for durability and ease of use, offering the fastest andRead More

Generative AI, with its massive training workloads, is having a huge impact on a broad range of technologies and related hardware supply chains. It is nearly impossible to avoid hearing about how artificial intelligence has begun impacting nearly every aspect of our lives. Already, AI is being applied to everything from medical diagnostics to judgingRead More

With unemployment rates low and the connector industry continuing to expand, attracting and retaining qualified workers has become difficult. How can new technologies help manufacturers solve this challenge? Unemployment rates remain steady and low in many regions. Meanwhile, the connector industry continues to expand, making it difficult for companies to attract and retain qualified workers.Read More

Meet the Cable: MTP/MPO Cables MTP and MPO cables are critical components in telecommunication networks and high-speed computing environments such as data centers. These optical cables deliver the higher transmission speeds and larger capacity requirements of cloud computing in the era of big data. MTP and MPO cables have similar appearances, but there are severalRead More

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 — at best — extremely unfriendly to electronics.Read More

Meet the Connector: High-Speed Data Connectors High-speed data connectors, also called HSDs, address the low-voltage, high-speed data requirements of a wide range of automotive applications. These compact, shielded connectors transmit high-frequency signals and are commonly used in automotive and industrial applications for systems like Ethernet, USB, and LVDS, as well as limited consumer electronics. They provideRead More

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 concept called Joint All-Domain Command and ControlRead More

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 coaxial and triaxial connector technologies, which wereRead More

The variety of applications within E-mobility require connections that perform at cutting-edge high-speeds, as well as endure environmentally rugged conditions to consistently support the signal between a vehicle’s battery and motor. No one knows what safety challenges may arise during travel. Flights can be interrupted by turbulence or sudden changes in weather patterns. Pedestrians, animals,Read More