Connectors are complex assemblies whose performance is based on interactions of materials with electrical, mechanical, and environmental factors. Extensive testing is required to ensure proper performance and numerous industry standards have been developed for that purpose. This FAQ reviews 13 tests across three key performance indicators for connectors including electrical, mechanical, and environmental considerations for […]
ODU Group launches ODU AMC NP miniaturized quick disconnect connector for soldier systems
With this ODU AMC NP launch, ODU extends its successful portfolio for soldier communications as well as its ability to assist military and defense customers with custom hybrid solutions and multiple value-added services, such as one-to-one engineering support, rapid prototyping and cable assembly integrated. This gives a significant competitive advantage to equipment manufacturers that want […]
How to improve contact reliability and security in HVAC/harsh environments
Contact security and reliability are important considerations when designing heating ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) systems and other equipment for use in harsh environments, like outdoors or in industrial facilities. Well-established standards like RAST connectors provide a good alternative, but some applications demand more. Challenges include environmental sealing, contact retention, position optimization, and locking power connectors together […]
What are the key tests for HVAC/harsh environment connectors?
Connectors are complex assemblies whose performance is based on interactions of electrical, mechanical, environmental, and materials factors. Extensive testing is required to ensure proper performance, and numerous industry standards have been developed for that purpose. This FAQ reviews 13 tests across three key performance indicators for connectors, including electrical, mechanical, and environmental considerations for connectors […]
What are the top five performance needs for HVAC/harsh environment connectors?
Amid a plethora of performance requirements for connectors used in heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and other harsh environments, five stand out as especially important — ingress protection against dust and moisture (IP rating), extreme temperature operation, balancing mating/unmating forces and contact resistance, retention force and locking mechanisms for robust operation, and safety. […]
Pluggable IO interface technology driving 224G PAM4 cable and connector developments
In this article, we’ll discuss the recent 200+G PAM4 per-lane interconnect developments supported by various consortia, standards bodies, and new product announcements. The latest 2023 Ethernet Alliance Roadmap shows the demand for 200+G per-lane pluggable modules, connectors, copper, and optical cable products by 2025. Based on their chart below and the interface roadmap, several different lane-count versions […]
What’s the difference between needle flame and glow wire testing?
Needle flame and glow wire testing are two approaches to determining the flame-retardant performance of materials like various plastics and the electronic devices that incorporate those materials. Needle flame tests are defined in IEC 60695-2-2, while glow wire testing is defined in IEC 60335 and IEC 60695. UL94 is another material burning test and can […]
What are RAST connectors?
RAST connectors include signal and power designs based on insulation displacement technology. The original specification included a maximum of 12 contacts, but RAST connectors are currently available with 20 or more contacts. They were developed for consumer white goods and have been adopted by various applications, including automotive systems. The RAST connector system was designed […]
The future of better M2M communications requires optimizing interoperability
By Priyank Kishor, global product management leader, TE Connectivity As Industry 4.0 advances manufacturing and production capabilities, factories can better integrate crucial processes, drive greater efficiencies, and access data and insights to improve operations. However, one significant challenge continues to stand in the way of optimizing machine-to-machine (M2M) communications: seamless interoperability and integration. Interoperability in […]
Converter allows for incorporation of analog sensors and actuators with IO-Link communications
WAGO’s new IP67-rated I/O-Link Analog Converters offer a solid and cost-effective solution for incorporating conventional analog sensors and actuators with IO-Link communications. The 765-2702/200-000 has two 0-10 VDC inputs that are converted to IO-Link for monitoring field-level sensors. The 765-2703/200-000 has two 4-20ma analog outputs while the 765-2704/200-000 has two 0-10VDC analog outputs. Both devices […]
Design software adds 8 million connector models
Nicomatic and SnapEDA are releasing computer-aided design (CAD) models for over 8 million of Nicomatic’s connectors to help engineers bring their designs to life faster. A printed circuit board (PCB) is built with many small components, each of them with special characteristics and features. Previously, engineers had to design CAD models for each of them, […]
RJ-45 receptacle keeps out water, dust, corrosion, and vibration
Platinum Tools is proud to announce the launch of the new Weatherproof Keystone Jack (p/n 745-1). Now shipping, the IP64-rated jack has an MSRP of $15.95. Additional features and specifications include: Designed for both shielded and non-shielded cable; Terminate with any 110 blade and punch-down tool; Rated for Cat6 terminations; For use with RJ45 (8P8C) […]
Why is connector pitch important?
Contributed by Frances Richards Knowing the connector pitch is vital to ensuring compatibility with the wire or cable being connected. When designing a circuit or purchasing either connectors or cables, the connector pitch must be specified to ensure a proper connection. First, let’s define pitch: A connector’s pitch refers to the distance measured from the […]
Cable assembly line expanded to include multiple configurations
Molex has extended its cable-assembly product line with the addition of innovative solutions from I-PEX. Together, the organizations offer I-PEX MHF 4L LK and MHF I LK cable assemblies, which are available in multiple configurations using standard MHF receptacles and Molex RF connector interfaces. The MHF I Series of micro-RF coaxial connector systems takes advantage […]
New Fischer KEYSTONE 6-port hub delivers easy connectivity and efficient power management for soldier-worn digital equipment
Fischer Connectors announces the launch of the Fischer KEYSTONE 6 wearable power and data hub for dismounted soldiers. The new tactical connectivity solution comprises a 6-port tactical hub, Fischer KEYSTONE 6, a power management app plug-in for the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK), and customized cable assemblies with connectors designed to meet Nett Warrior and […]
Fischer Connectors enhances IIoT connectivity with ultra-rugged solutions using single pair Ethernet and USB 3.2 protocols
Fischer Connectors has developed new high-speed data and power connectivity solutions combining Single Pair Ethernet and USB 3.2 Gen 2 high-speed protocols with the rugged, high-density, and miniature features of its flagship product lines. They enable space-saving and cost-efficient integration in industrial automation and robotics, chemical plants, food processing, automotive production lines, outdoor sensing, and […]
Microwave cable bends right at the connector
Times Microwave Systems introduces its new InstaBend 141 (IB-141)high-performance microwave assembly. InstaBend 141 provides a larger-diameter, lower-loss addition to Times Microwave’s Systems InstaBend family of microwave assemblies, which feature a flexible preassembled design for interconnects between RF circuit cards, modules, and enclosure panels. IB-141 is ideal for both inside-the-box and between-box connections in applications including space flight, […]
Cat6A PoE type 4 connector handles 90 W
Platinum Tools announced the launch of the new Cat6A PoE Type 4 Connector (p/n 106260) during ISC West 2023, held in Las Vegas, Nev. from March 29-31 at the Venetian Expo and Convention Center, booth #3036. Whether it is for PoE lighting installations or for powering equipment on a production floor, this connector has it […]
The hermaphroditic IT14 series connector supports up to 112 Gbps in telecom and networking applications
Hirose has launched a stackable ball grid array (BGA) mezzanine connector designed for high-speed and high-density server applications. The hermaphroditic IT14 Series features a self-mating design to eliminate the need for additional mating parts. Fewer mating parts not only reduce costs but also increases reliability and enhance performance. The IT14 Series supports high-speed data transmission […]
M8 connector types added to circular cable assemblies
CUI Devices’ Interconnect Group announced the addition of M8 connector types to its line of circular cable assemblies. The CDM8 family offers a range of male or female plug versions with contact position options of 3, 4, 5, 6, or 8 pins. These M8 connectors are A coded to support 1 Gbit Ethernet or B […]
Connector, adapters cover 10 kV and 20 kV to 300 MHz
Pasternack has just introduced new 10kV/20kV connectors and adapters for imaging inspection, testing, measurement, and medical and aerospace applications. Pasternack’s 10kV/20kV connectors and adapters feature high operating voltage ratings of 10kV/20kV DC, high insulation resistance of 1000 MOhm, and a greater maximum frequency of 300 MHz. These hermetically sealed, high-voltage 10kV/20kV connectors and adapters reduce […]
2.4 mm and 2.92 mm connectors and adapters cover DC to 40 GHz
Linx Technologies has introduced 2.4 mm and 2.92 mm connectors and adapters to its continually expanding product portfolio. Ideal for precision applications, these connectors and adapters combine superior performance, compact size, and a convenient threaded mating interface to provide a heavy-duty, easy-to-use connector. Frequently used in radar, satellite communications, experimental and test and measurement applications, […]
M12 stainless-steel connectors for sensor cabling in harsh environments
binder USA offers M12 connectors with all external parts – threaded locking ring, housing, and pressing screw – constructed of stainless steel. The cable clamp is constructed of PTFE, the seal is made of VitonTM, and rounded surfaces facilitate cleaning.The design and materials make binder’s M12 ideal for for corrosive environments including humidity, chemicals, detergents, […]
Self-fixture connectors now offered in 2.92mm, 2.4mm, and 1.85mm configurations
Cinch Connectivity Solutions announced the expansion of their Johnson / Cinch Connectivity Solutions Self-Fixture Family of Connectors with three new proprietary, patented solutions available in 2.92mm, 2.4mm, and 1.85mm configurations. Johnson is the only supplier on the market offering a self-fixture solution, saving customers time and money in the manufacturing process and reducing the need […]
Multi-coaxial connectors specifically design for high-frequency applications
LEMO announces the expansion of its field-proven M Series with a new multi-coaxial configuration, named LM.232, available in size LM with up to 12x coaxial contacts. These new plugs and fixed sockets have been specifically designed to satisfy the most stringent high-frequency connection requirements under very demanding environmental conditions. This new insert configuration integrates 12x […]