The current carrying capacity of a connector is not a fixed absolute value; it is always the result of a thermal consideration. Since insulating materials, contact springs, and plating systems are specified only up to a certain temperature limit, the permissible current must be reduced as the ambient temperature increases. This relationship is exactly whatRead More
Energy storage systems and uninterruptible power supplies have become integral parts of industrial environments. Vehicles and equipment that require power, such as autonomous mobile robots and AGVs, put the focus on power connectors. Article Contributed by JAE High-current connections in industrial equipment traditionally meant bolted busbars or screw-terminal blocks. However, these solutions required assembly time,Read More
Overmolded cable assemblies help ensure the integrity of mission-critical signal transmission in navigation, data, power, communication, and control systems. Learn how to specify this essential element of primary and secondary flight control designs. Article contributed by Robert Grzib Signal integrity, which measures the quality of an electrical signal, is inarguably the most critical factor toRead More
Only the most durable and rugged components can protect outdoor electronics. To ensure reliable connectivity, look for these key characteristics. Article Contributed by: Paul Pulkowski, Marketing Manager, binder USA Harsh environment connectors play an important role in modern engineering, acting as critical links for power and signal transmission across diverse applications. In outdoor and challenging conditions, where materialsRead More
As electronics shrink and applications grow more demanding, flat cables are emerging as a compelling alternative to traditional round wire bundles, offering superior flexibility, space efficiency, and reliability across industries. Article Contributed By Doug Allen and Brian Wang, JPC Connectivity When designing application-specific cable assemblies, most engineers default to traditional round wire bundles. In manyRead More
Today’s global appliance market is undergoing a structural transition from conventional, analog designs to smart, connected appliances. Article Contributed by Ashish Ainapure, System Architecture Manager and John Marsh, Fellow R&D / Product Development Engineering, TE Connectivity Traditional appliances are typically monolithic in design, relying on centralized control boards, mechanical interfaces, and hard‑wired functionality. The globalRead More
Capable of transmitting RF signals from DC to 40 GHz from antenna to receiver, semi-rigid coaxial cables and assemblies ensure optimal performance, reliability, and durability in a broad range of mission-critical military and aeronautical systems. Article Contributed by CDM Inc. Semi-rigid coaxial cables and assemblies ensure optimal performance, reliability, and durability in a broad rangeRead More
The harsh environment of space exposes spacecraft to extreme temperatures, radiation, atomic oxygen (ATOX), and shocks or vibration due to debris impact. These risks must be considered right from the design phase of electronic devices to ensure that the materials and technologies used in space perform as intended. Faced with rapid changes and ever-increasing technologicalRead More
The electric vehicle (EV) transformation has created significant engineering challenges in motor design, particularly in optimizing the electromagnetic performance of compact coil systems while meeting sustainability and cost-effectiveness requirements. By FABIO DE PASQUALE, R&D, Product Development Engineer, and Clinton Pereira, Supervisor, R&D, Product Development Engineer, TE Connectivity A critical aspect of this evolution involves theRead More
New prototyping tools and processes make custom solutions more accessible and affordable. When an off-the-shelf solution won’t do, a custom connector can be created. Advanced design software and manufacturing tools such as CNC and 3D printing enable suppliers to very quickly create sophisticated prototypes of custom connectors. A few years ago, this would have beenRead More
Gold over nickel plating is an excellent choice for signal transmission in RF PCB connectors. However, an excess amount of gold in the solder joint can create a gold-tin compound, making the solder joint susceptible to breakage. A custom solution solves the problem. By SV Microwave Gold over nickel plating is an excellent choice forRead More
Case Study: The Supply Chain Path Behind Digital Farming Solutions By DigiKey Today’s growers are using innovative technology to combat issues related to rising input costs, climate change, soil degradation, water scarcity, and other challenges. Digital farming tools monitor soil moisture, manage fertilizer and watering systems, and strategically guide plant maturation to improve crop yieldsRead More
