Meet the Connector: Configurable Connector Systems Configurable connector systems, also called build-your-own, semi-custom, or modular connectors (not to be confused with modular RJ45s), are available from many suppliers as an alternative to costly fully custom connector products. In cases in which an existing connector is close, but not quite right for a particular application, theseRead More

Meet the Connector: SMP Connectors Subminiature push-on (SMP) connectors are highly shielded, very small interconnects commonly used in miniaturized high frequency coaxial modules and high data rate applications such as antennas, broadband installations, Test & Measurement, and quantum computing. The product was developed by Gilbert (now Corning Gilbert) in the late 1980s and marketed asRead More

Meet the Connector: EV Charging Connectors As the name implies, EV charging connectors are used to charge electric vehicles. Several types of EV charging connectors currently exist, each with specific characteristics. EV charging connectors (or charging plugs) are available for AC or DC. AC Charging Plugs are either Type 1 or Type 2. Type 1Read More

Meet the Connector: Interposers Interposers, or interposer connectors, are compression-mounted interconnect devices that are positioned between boards or sockets to allow an electrical signal to pass through very quickly. They have a wider pitch than a traditional connector, thus enabling the easy rerouting of connections, and provide designers with a flexible, removeable interface. The wideRead More

Meet the Connector: IEC Connectors IEC connectors or plugs are a broad category of power connectors for various uses that follow the International Electrotechnical Commission standards. IEC connectors are not a specific type of connector. Instead, they are a broad category of different types of electronic and electrical power connectors that meet the International Electrotechnical CommissionRead More

Meet the Connector: MPO Fiber Optic Connectors MPO (Multi-fiber Push-On) connectors evolved from mechanical transfer (MT) technology developed by Nippon Telephone and Telegraph Corp. (NTT) in 1986. NTT developed the first MPO connector as a compact, physical contact (PC) solution that offered a simple push/pull operation for connecting and disconnecting a plug and adapter. PriorRead More

Meet the Connector: Mezzanine Connectors As electronic equipment became more complex in the 2000s, mezzanine connectors were developed in response to the increasing demand for space on PCBs. These high-speed, board-to-board connectors connect two parallel PCBs in a stacking configuration. Many of these are defined in an industry standard such as the PCI Mezzanine CardRead More

Meet the Connector: Hermetic Connectors Hermetic connectors are completely sealed against ingress of air or liquid using a glass, ceramic, or composite sealing device or material. Hermetic sealing offers the highest level of protection available against air, gases, chemicals, moisture, debris, and other contaminants. It is an essential feature for many harsh environment connectors, particularlyRead More

Meet the Connector: Overmolded Cable Assemblies Connector and cable assemblies that are used in harsh environments, that undergo frequent sanitation procedures, or are subjected to strenuous handling benefit from the protection of overmolding.   Overmolded cable assemblies combine the connector and cable into one seamless piece. The process involves using two or more materials toRead More

Updated: January 2023 Meet the Connector: M-Type Sensor Connectors M-type connectors were originally designed for connecting sensors and actuators in automation equipment and industrial networks. They are now used in a variety of applications, including high-frequency transmission circuits in telecommunications, measurement equipment, robotics, and transportation. The M12 standard was adopted for its reliability and consistencyRead More

Meet the Connector: SMA coaxial RF connectors SMA (Sub-Miniature version A) coaxial RF connectors are single-line, threaded coupling connectors, available worldwide in many versions including termination options, different levels of environmental sealing, and electrical performance. The connector has a characteristic 50 Ω impedance and was originally designed for use from DC (0 Hz) to 12 GHz. This has,Read More

Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-24308 connectors MIL-DTL-24308 connectors are a high-density rectangular I/O electrical connector in the D-subminiature family (named for its distinctive D-shaped metal shell). Also known as M24308s, these compact, high-reliability connectors feature solid machined contacts and come in a versatile range of classes, mounting options, and layout types. M24308s are available in ruggedRead More