materials

What is Automotive Composite Wire (ACW)?

Automotive composite wire (ACW) is a dual-wall, single-core wire used in vehicle wire harnesses for engine compartments and other high-temperature zones. Its insulation combines a radiation cross-linked polyolefin inner layer with a radiation cross-linked fluoropolymer outer layer. The two layers are chemically bonded rather than co-extruded in a thin-wall package. It is a cost-effective alternativeRead More

Smaller, Smarter, Sustainable Connectors

Miniature connectors encourage eco-friendly electronics production. Article Contributed by: Mark Baptista, Global Strategic Accounts Sales Engineer, PEI Genesis The push for miniaturization across every technology market has been made possible by the miniaturization of electrical components. Growing demand for lightweight, compact parts across automotive, medical, and consumer electronics is reshaping the entire industry, prompting manufacturers to rethink component designRead More

Overmolded Cable Assemblies Ensure Optimal In-Flight Signal Integrity

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

High Materials Costs Squeeze Connector Manufacturers

The buildout of AI infrastructure and expanding electrification are increasing demand for base metals. Now, unprecedented price increases in the gold, silver, and copper markets are putting pressure on connector manufacturers in a direct challenge to cost structures, pricing strategies, and supply chain resilience. Connector and cable manufacturers are navigating a challenging raw materials environmentRead More

2025 Connector Industry Acquisitions

The connector industry continues to contract, even as the demand for interconnect products increases. See what acquisitions helped change the connector industry in 2025. Demand for interconnects continues to grow, fueling a continuing wave of mergers and acquisitions that leaves fewer (and now, larger) companies left in the market. In 2025, more suppliers expanded services,Read More

Engineering Sustainable Connectors for Harsh Environments

Dependable connectivity is vital to safe and efficient technologies. However, this can be especially challenging in outdoor environments where exposure to the elements and unpredictable conditions impact the integrity of interconnects. Advances in materials and design help meet performance, safety, and sustainability goals. Article Contributed by Tristan Stubbs, Mechanical Engineer at Bulgin Dependable electrical connectivityRead More

Custom Pre-Tinned Connectors Solve the Gold Embrittlement Problem

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

Material Considerations: Cable Assemblies for High-Temperature Applications

As more applications involve high-temperature systems, resin manufacturers are formulating more common resins like TPU to survive in higher temperatures. By iCONN Systems Many transportation, marine, medical, and other outdoors applications require equipment rated for sustained performance at elevated temperatures. For transportation applications, heat is generated within the operations of the vehicle, including combustion, engine,Read More

Commercial Satellites are Driving the Space Economy

The market for commercial satellites, and the data they gather, is growing. Uses for the information gained from highly detailed images are as varied as tracking wildfires and comparing how much traffic certain parking lots are getting. Space has long been a proving ground for technology, and while many advancements — perhaps most notably GPSRead More

Electronics vs. the Elements: Mitigating Risk in Harsh Environments

This article is included in Connector Supplier’s latest e-Book, Braving the Elements, a compilation of expert insights into overcoming the performance obstacles electronics face every day in increasingly challenging environments. Download your free copy here.  Manufacturers use the IP rating system to describe the level of protection that their equipment can deliver. IP ratings haveRead More

AyontEX Alloy Chosen for NASA Telescope Mirror Prototype

The 1.25-meter mirror manufactured from this high-performance product will be evaluated for performance in space environments. The alloy is integral to optimized optical, thermal, structural, and dynamic mirror performance characteristics. One of Materion Corporation’s newer high-performance products, AyontEX alloy, has been selected for use in a NASA-funded telescope mirror prototype. This 1.25-meter mirror will beRead More

The Benefits of Gold Plating on Connectors

Gold plating offers unparalleled durability and corrosion resistance to interconnects. Learn how gold — or a cost-effective alternative — can impact connector selection. Gold plating has a long history of utility in the connector industry due to its highly effective combination of durability, corrosion resistance, ductility, and electrical conductivity. The material offers stability under aRead More

2026 World Connector Market Handbook 2025-2031F
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