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 […]
Murrelektronik A-coded sensor and signal connection cables from AutomationDirect
AutomationDirect’s newest addition of A-coded sensor and signal connection cables from Murrelektronik provides easy and reliable connections between panels and field devices. These cables offer several configurations including axial or right-angle female M8 or M12 screw-lock connector to pigtail, axial male to axial female with M8 or M12 screw-lock connectors, and right-angle male to right-angle […]
Secure ultra-miniature cable assemblies in high-vibration industrial applications
Amphenol RF is pleased to introduce SMA and TNC to MHF I LK locking cable assemblies on ultra-flexible 1.13 mm micro-coax cable. These pre-configured assemblies offer excellent vibration resistance for applications that may experience continuous shock and movement. The MHF I LK connector uses a mechanical locking feature which increases the plug retention force ensuring […]
Murrelektronik A-Coded sensor and signal connection cables from AutomationDirect
AutomationDirect’s newest addition of A-coded sensor and signal connection cables from Murrelektronik provides easy and reliable connections between panels and field devices. These cables offer several configurations including axial or right-angle female M8 or M12 screw-lock connector to pigtail, axial male to axial female with M8 or M12 screw-lock connectors, and right-angle male to right-angle […]
Differential impedance transducer capable of sub nanometer resolution with high sensitivity
The Measuring Division of Kaman Precision Products, Inc. highlights the DIT-5200L noncontact differential impedance transducer, which offers true differential for common mode rejection at an economical price. Capable of subnanometer resolution with high sensitivity (up to 10v/mil, 39 mV/μm) and outstanding linearity (up to 0.1% full range), this product provides a powerful solution for a […]
Image sensor family boasts HDR and LFM capabilities for next-gen ADAS
onsemi announced the launch of its Hyperlux automotive image sensor family. With a 2.1 µm pixel size, industry-leading 150dB ultra-high dynamic range (HDR) and LED flicker mitigation (LFM) across the full automotive temperature range, the Hyperlux family provides high performance, speed, and advanced features to propel the next generation of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) […]
Improved IDEC photoelectric sensors boost performance and capabilities
IDEC Corporation introduces the SA2E general-purpose photoelectric (PE) sensor family, in five major models, each of which improves or replaces proven SA1E products. A new ASIC, common to the entire offering, provides a significantly improved price/performance ratio, while delivering better response times and more capable detection. SA2E PE sensors are offered in five major variations: […]
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 […]
Safety sensor monitors EV and ESS battery health
Metis Engineering has launched Cell Guard, a new battery safety sensor that aims to revolutionize battery health monitoring for electric vehicles (EVs) and Energy Storage Systems (ESS) Cell Guard is a unique sensor that provides unrivaled accurate and detailed information on the health of a lithium-ion battery pack to improve longevity, as well as being […]
Z-axis TMR sensor replaces Hall-element sensor designs
Crocus Technology announced the release of the CT130, a 1-D linear TMR sensor that is sensitive in the Z axis. The CT130 is a revolutionary product that provides unparalleled temperature stability, high accuracy, and precision for position and current sensing applications. The CT130 from Crocus Technology is the world’s first true TMR sensor with Z-axis […]
What are quantum sensors?
Quantum sensors measure minute changes in electric and magnetic fields as well as motion and the measurements are made at the atomic level. At this scale, information from individual atoms instead of from huge collections of atoms allows quantum sensors to make exponentially more accurate, more thorough, more efficient and more productive measurements. Using the […]
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. […]
Toolchain and software package employ ISPU to handle motion-related workloads
STMicroelectronics has released a toolchain and accompanying software package for programming the intelligent sensor processing unit (ISPU) embedded in the latest-generation intelligent MEMS IMUs, ISM330IS and LSM6DSO16IS. The toolchain and software help employ the ISPU to handle motion-related workloads such as activity recognition and anomaly detection directly in the sensor. This permits reducing system power and latency, offloading […]
Cat6a Ethernet patch cables from AutomationDirect
AutomationDirect now offers industrial-grade Cat6a Ethernet communication cables that support transmission speeds of up to 10 Gbps full duplex. These patch cables are designed to reduce the effects of electromagnetic interference (EMI) by incorporating shielded RJ45 connectors, an inner foil shield around each twisted pair, and an outer foil shield around the entire set of […]
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 […]
Teledyne introduces shutterless version of its compact thermal camera core
Teledyne DALSA, a Teledyne Technologies company, has announced a shutterless version of its MicroCalibir Long Wave Infrared (LWIR) compact camera platform. Developed and manufactured in Canada, the small and lightweight MicroCalibir platform is the result of the latest advances made by Teledyne DALSA’s integration of their in-house 12 μm microbolometer pixel technology with a deep-ADC […]
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 […]
How Do Brain-Computer Interfaces Use Sensors?
Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) activated prosthetics and other applications need sensors to provide feedback. Intensive work has been and continues to be done in this area. For example, researchers have reported their progress on an electroencephalogram (EEG)-based motor imagery BCI to control the movement of a prosthetic hand. The hand was instrumented with force and angle […]
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 […]
IDS at Automate 2023, booth 6830
Whether sorting, inspecting, supplying, or documenting goods, many steps in the production process can be optimized with machine vision and artificial intelligence. However, many companies still lack the know-how and time to familiarize themselves with the field of AI and use the technology for their needs. The AI Vision System IDS NXT is designed to […]
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 […]
How can sensors protect vulnerable areas? Pt 4
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has ongoing efforts to address the unintended contamination and purposeful contamination of the nation’s water supplies. Sensing technologies are an integral part of the strategy. In 2023, the EPA proposed new limits to drinking water contamination from toxic “forever chemicals” or per fluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Used widely […]