Military Connectors

Sabrina Brossard: A New Generation of Industry Leadership
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Sabrina Brossard: A New Generation of Industry Leadership
Many connector companies get their start as family businesses. It’s more unusual for a company to remain in the hands of the founding family after decades of business. Meet Sabrina Brossard, the third generation of the Fischer founding family to lead the group. In June 2023, Sabrina Brossard…
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Sabrina Brossard: A New Generation of Industry Leadership
Sabrina Brossard: A New Generation of Industry Leadership
Many connector companies get their start as family businesses. It’s more unusual for a company to remain in the hands of the founding family after decades of business. Meet Sabrina Brossard, the third generation of the Fischer founding family to lead the group. In June 2023, Sabrina Brossard…
Connector Industry Forecast for 2024
Connector Industry Forecast for 2024
A year ago, pandemic-era supply chain disruptions and uneven demand continued to weigh on the connector industry. As we enter 2024, these factors have improved but new technology trends and other uncertainties are altering the landscape. Here’s what to expect in the months to come. As we enter…
Design Planning to Insure Performance in Harsh Environments
Design Planning to Insure Performance in Harsh Environments
The range and expansion of electronic applications today has extended the need for analysis and preparation of circuit designs to survive new operating settings in extreme harsh environments. Navigation electronics that have been employed in automobiles for navigating our city streets are now playing a role in deep…
What are Jam Nut Connectors?
What are Jam Nut Connectors?
Meet the Connector: Jam Nut Connectors Jam nut connectors feature a jam nut (hex nut) that screws onto a circular connector’s threads to mount it and secure the electrical connection. Jam nut connectors are used to save space in crowded panels, walls, or boxes. They also improve stability,…
Aircraft Product Roundup
Aircraft Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights connectors used in aerospace from leading suppliers. Aircraft connectors SAS/PCIe 4.0 (U.2&U.3) connectors from Amphenol Communications Solutions, used in OLED display applications for in-flight entertainment systems, come with 16 GT/s (PCIe lanes) or 24 Gb/s (SAS lanes) speeds to meet the demands of next-generation servers.…
A Year of Connector Industry Intelligence
A Year of Connector Industry Intelligence
Bishop & Associates is the electronics industry’s best resource for insights into the interconnect industry, including deep dives into key suppliers, products, and markets. See 2023’s full roster of reports. Bishop & Associates has kept a close watch on interconnect industry for more than 30 years, providing connector…
Counterfeit Components Ground Airlines
Counterfeit Components Ground Airlines
American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest Airlines are among the companies experiencing pain due to counterfeit parts entering the supply chain. Major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airline, Virgin Australia, Ryanair, and TAP Air Portugal, have had to take more than 100 planes out of service…
SC23 Supercomputer and HPC Showcase
SC23 Supercomputer and HPC Showcase
The Denver Convention Center hosted SC23, this year’s edition of the Supercomputer conference, with the theme of i am hpc highlighting the depth and diversity of high-performance computing. The six-day event featured 90 research papers, 51 workshops, 37 tutorials, and 15 expert panels that explored the hardware, software,…
Top 10 Connector Suppliers by Geography: A Look at Regional Leaders
Top 10 Connector Suppliers by Geography: A Look at Regional Leaders
Bishop & Associates evaluated more than 1,500 connector companies to determine the top-ranking suppliers. See the Top 10 suppliers in your region. Design engineers and purchasing personnel strive to identify the best connector companies for their design and purchasing requirements. However, identifying the best companies is not an…
What are Nano-D connectors?
What are Nano-D connectors?
Meet the Connector: Nano-D Nano-D connectors, along with micro-D connectors, were developed in the 1970s as a variation of D-sub (D-subminiature) connectors. ITT Cannon (formerly Cannon) holds the trademark for the D-sub and its smaller variants, although other companies have since designed their own versions. Like the micro-D…
Space-Grade Product Roundup  
Space-Grade Product Roundup  
This week’s Product Roundup highlights space-grade connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers. Space-grade connectors Omnetics Nano-D Bi-Lobe connectors are now available with a quick latch system. These latches require no tools and offer great ease in handling. Bi-Lobe connectors utilize Omnetics’ rugged and reliable flex pin contact…
December 2023 Connector Industry News
December 2023 Connector Industry News
Upcoming industry events, as well as recent award, partnership, promotion, personnel, facility, distribution, standards, association, and certification news from across the connector industry. December 2023 Connector Industry News December 2023 Connector Industry News > Award News DigiKey won four MarCom Awards in the 2023 international creative competition for marketing and…
Post-Pandemic State of the Supply Chain 
Post-Pandemic State of the Supply Chain 
Interconnect suppliers have weathered the post-pandemic recovery period with resilience and creativity to keep supply chains flowing and manage a mix of backlogs and inventory during a period of changing demand. As we approach the end of the third year of life altered by the pandemic, the electronics…
Remote Locations: How to Design Interconnect Solutions for Harsh Environments
Remote Locations: How to Design Interconnect Solutions for Harsh Environments
Remote access to maintain electronic systems used in many harsh environments can be difficult or impossible. Strategic selection of interconnects can extend the life and ease the maintenance of this equipment. Electronic systems and equipment used in hard-to-reach locations such as space, mountain-top observatories, deep sea rovers, or…
Five Military Trends Paving the Way for Harsh Environment Connectivity
Five Military Trends Paving the Way for Harsh Environment Connectivity
The military requires connectors that are as small, fast, and lightweight as possible while being durable and secure. Learn more about products that fit the bill. Military trends require connectors that are as small, fast, and lightweight as possible while being durable and secure. Even in the harshest…
What are SMB/SMC connectors?
What are SMB/SMC connectors?
Meet the Connector: SMB/SMC Connectors The SMB (Sub-Miniature type B) and SMC (Sub-Miniature type C) coaxial RF connectors were first developed in the 1960s as sub-miniature connectors for fitment on RF cable and equipment. The SMB offers quick connect/disconnect snap-on mating, while the SMC has a #10-32UNF-threaded screw-type…
Rack & Panel Product Roundup  
Rack & Panel Product Roundup  
This week’s Product Roundup highlights rack & panel connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers.   Rack & panel connectors ITT Cannon Trident Multiway connectors supplied by PEI-Genesis are cost-effective rectangular connectors designed for exceptional performance in harsh environments and tested to MIL-STD-202 and IEC 512. They have…
November 2023 New Connectivity Products 
November 2023 New Connectivity Products 
New-to-market connectivity products, including interconnects, wire, cable, and cable assemblies, sensors, antennas, materials, accessories, tools, and development kits. November 2023 New Connectivity Products  November 2023 New Connectivity Products > Interconnects, etc. Amphenol Communications Solutions’ MicroSpace High Voltage selective loaded crimp-to-wire connector platform has a unique design that enables LV214 Severity-2 and performs at 3.81 mm, 6.35 mm, and…
Design Considerations for Space-Deployed Satellite Hardware
Design Considerations for Space-Deployed Satellite Hardware
From tiny CubeSats to SpaceVPX satellites, the night sky is full of new constellations. Selecting components that can handle launch stressors, radiation, extreme temperatures, and other space challenges is essential to the mission. In the past three years alone, so many thousands of satellites have been launched into…
Building Resilient Robotic Systems for Harsh Environments
Building Resilient Robotic Systems for Harsh Environments
High-reliability connectors and cable assemblies play a crucial role in ensuring the functionality and longevity of robotic systems and devices that operate in space, ocean, and downhole environments. Developing robots for deployment in harsh and unforgiving environments, from the depths of the ocean to outer space and everywhere…
Emerging Space Technologies Call for Harsh Environment Connectors  
Emerging Space Technologies Call for Harsh Environment Connectors  
As current space systems advance and new technologies develop, the space industry will evolve drastically over the next few decades. The United States, Russia, and China have major space programs; the EU, India, Canada, Japan, and others are growing their footprint in space; and 80 countries have satellites…
What are MIL-DTL-55116 connectors?
What are MIL-DTL-55116 connectors?
Meet the Connector: MTL-DTL-55116 Connectors The MIL-DTL-55116 connector is an electrical connector that has been used for more than five decades to connect audio and radio frequency (RF) devices in military and aerospace applications. It was introduced by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) in 1969 to…
VITA connectors Product Roundup 
VITA connectors Product Roundup 
This week’s Product Roundup highlights VITA connectors from leading suppliers. VITA connectors Avnet supplies TE’s MULTIGIG RT 3 connectors. Supporting speeds of 32+ Gb/s, these are among the fastest rugged backplane connectors for embedded computing or VPX (Versatile Performance Switching) systems currently on the market. The ruggedized design…
Cables, Connectors, Waveguides, and Hybrid Products for up to THz at IMS 2023
Cables, Connectors, Waveguides, and Hybrid Products for up to THz at IMS 2023
IMS 2023, the premier worldwide RF microwave symposium, revealed exponential gains in next-generation interconnects for wireless communications technologies. Take a tour of the highlights with RF expert Dave Shaff. This year’s International Microwave Symposium (IMS) reestablished the event as the premier world level expo for RF through THz…
Specifying Space Connectors
Specifying Space Connectors
Space deployment involves major engineering challenges. Evaluating risks and potential problems is an essential part of the process when specifying space connectors. Space deployment brings a multitude of major engineering challenges, and an essential part of the component selection process involves correctly specifying space connectors. Before deciding on…
What are MIL-DTL-32689 Connectors?
What are MIL-DTL-32689 Connectors?
Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-32689 MIL-DTL-32689 is a relatively new MIL-spec defines high-density, lightweight circular connectors that are well-suited for military and aerospace applications because of their quick disconnection, tri-start threaded coupling, and environment-resistant features. MIL-DTL-32689 provides multi-sourcing for Mini/Micro-D38999 Series III connectors, miniature versions of MIL-DTL-38999. At about 70% lighter and…
D-Sub Connectors Product Roundup  
D-Sub Connectors Product Roundup  
This week’s Product Roundup highlights D-Sub connectors from leading suppliers. D-Sub Connectors Avnet supplies TE Connectivity's AMPLIMITE family of D-subminiature connectors. These D-subminiature connectors are the most popular type of input/output (I/O) connectors in use today. Established and proven, they are rugged, easily used, and have been widely…
July 2023 New Connectivity Products 
July 2023 New Connectivity Products 
New-to-market connectivity products, including interconnects, wire, cable and cable assemblies, sensors, antennas, materials, accessories, tools, and development kits. July 2023 New Connectivity Products  July 2023 New Connectivity Products > Interconnects, etc. Smiths Interconnect released its highly anticipated space-qualified version of the KVPX connector series. This significant advancement reinforces the company's commitment to meeting the rigorous demands of the…
Soldier Wearable Technologies Advance Military Operations
Soldier Wearable Technologies Advance Military Operations
Wearable and portable technologies are giving soldiers superhuman strength, night vision, and powerful battlefield intelligence. In conflicts around the world, soldier wearables and portable military technologies help military personnel enhance their physical capabilities, stay in contact with command centers and fellow soldiers, maintain situational awareness, reduce risks on…
Unique RF Interconnect Solutions for Mobile 5G Networks Aid in Disaster Recovery
Unique RF Interconnect Solutions for Mobile 5G Networks Aid in Disaster Recovery
RF interconnect solutions are critical in mobile 5G communications networks. New solutions help seamlessly power these essential communications networks when traditional networks are disrupted by disaster. 5G technologies deliver high data speeds, ultra-low latency, enhanced reliability, enormous network capacity, and increased availability. Mobile connectivity solutions make it possible…
What are Micro Circular Connectors?
What are Micro Circular Connectors?
Meet the Connector: Micro Circular The push to make mil/aero electronic equipment smaller and lighter for easier portability while maintaining its necessary ruggedness requires smaller, lighter, rugged connectors. Enter microminiature and nanominiature circular connectors. Micro or nano circular connectors feature smaller pin and jack diameters and the pins…
38999 Product Roundup
38999 Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights  38999s from leading suppliers. 38999 Providers Powell supplies Glenair Series 806 Mil-Aero Micro Miniature D38999 Connectors and Cable Assemblies. Series 806 offers significant size and weight savings while meeting key performance benchmarks for a broad range of applications such as commercial and military…
Building Better Interconnects for Space-Grade Applications
Building Better Interconnects for Space-Grade Applications
Designing electronics that leave Earth calls for a more thoughtful approach, from specialized materials to high-reliability form factors to close relationships with space agencies and regulatory organizations. Space-grade connectors can go where no man has gone before. Precision-engineered and specifically qualified, these exceptional interconnects are fit to endure…
New RF Interconnect Designs Address Shortcomings of the SMP Family of Connectors in Today’s Aerospace and Defense Applications
New RF Interconnect Designs Address Shortcomings of the SMP Family of Connectors in Today’s Aerospace and Defense Applications
Innovative RF interconnect designs, address specific needs not fulfilled by standard designs such as the SMP connector. The aerospace and defense industries count on dependable, durable RF systems for mission-critical electronics applications such as intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) systems, SATCOM and communications systems, electronic warfare (EW), missile guidance,…
What are MIL-DTL-83526 connectors?
What are MIL-DTL-83526 connectors?
Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-83526 MIL-DTL-83526 (M83526) connectors have consistent and predictable optical performance and are rugged enough to withstand military field applications. MIL-DTL-83526 defines circular, environment-resistant, hermaphroditic interface, fiber-optic connectors. The specification details their characteristics, performance, and testing criteria. As expected, fiber optic connectors perform critical communication functions…
Bayonet Connectors Product Roundup
Bayonet Connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights bayonet connectors from leading suppliers. Bayonet connectors Teledyne Reynolds’ 1807 high-voltage connectors come in shielded and non-shielded configurations with either bayonet or threaded coupling nuts. Plug kits are available for customer-fabricated cable assemblies using the company’s specified wire. Teledyne Reynolds leads the connector…
Hidden Connectors
Hidden Connectors
Sleek designs, subtle colors, and hidden locations help connectors blend in when applications need to look good or not be seen at all. A visible connector is easier to mate than a hidden connector. Color coding, accessible positioning, and LEDs help operators make the correct selection in environments…
How to Design Optical Fiber Cables for Interconnect Solutions in Harsh Environments
How to Design Optical Fiber Cables for Interconnect Solutions in Harsh Environments
For harsh environments, such as avionics and defense, key issues related to high temperatures, vibration, and shock must be considered to maximize the efficiency of optical technologies. For two decades, the need for ever-increasing capacity and speed to move data through our electronic devices has generated the deployment…
Strong 2022 Sales Lead into Optimistic Start for 2023
Strong 2022 Sales Lead into Optimistic Start for 2023
But what does 2023 hold for connector sales? Bishop & Associates' Ron Bishop takes a look at the technologies and markets that use connectors to give us some clues about what the year ahead will bring. The final connector industry sales results from 2022 are coming in, and…
Fiber Optic Connectors for Military Product Roundup
Fiber Optic Connectors for Military Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights fiber optic connector products for military applications from leading suppliers. Fiber Optic Connector Products for Military Applications Optical fiber cables offered by Axon’ Cable are compatible with a wide range of standardized contacts or connectors, including ARINC801, MIL, ST, FC, and LC connectors.…
Top 10 Great Reads From 2022
Top 10 Great Reads From 2022
Check out the Top 10 most popular articles from our 2022 MIL/Aero coverage. Read, learn, and enjoy. Products that begin with the military tend to migrate across the electronics industry, influencing electronic design and introducing powerful strategies to other markets. Our readers enjoy learning about the products, applications,…
Top 10 Supplier of Connectors for the Military/Aerospace Market
Top 10 Supplier of Connectors for the Military/Aerospace Market
The military/aerospace market encompasses a wide variety of applications requiring numerous high-speed, rugged, and high-reliability interconnects. Who are the top connector companies that serve this market? The military/aerospace market is among the largest users of interconnect products. In 2021, military spending reached a record $2.1 trillion, a figure…
What are Micro-D connectors?
What are Micro-D connectors?
Meet the Connector: Micro-D Connector The tiny but mighty micro-D connector is half the size of a standard D-sub yet delivers rugged and reliable performance in commercial and military applications.  Micro-D (and nano-D) connectors were derived from D-sub (D-subminiature) connectors in the 1970s. Their compact design led to…
December 2022 New Connectivity Products
December 2022 New Connectivity Products
New-to-market connectivity products, including interconnects, wire, cable, and cable assemblies, sensors, antennas, materials, accessories, tools, and development kits.   December 2022 New Connectivity Products December 2022 New Connectivity Products > Interconnects, etc. WAGO’s new open tool slot and push-button TOPJOB S Distribution Terminal Blocks are just 9 mm wide with 1 to 6 distribution. These blocks allow power feed-in…
Hyperboloid Contact Technology is Still Going Strong
Hyperboloid Contact Technology is Still Going Strong
From transportation to MIL/Aero to medical and more, hyperboloid contacts continue to be vital in the evolving world of electronics. Francois Robert Bonhomme invented the hyperboloid contact in 1956 in response to the need for more reliable connectors used in railway applications. By that time, rail systems had…
Maintaining Signal Integrity in the Era of SWaP
Maintaining Signal Integrity in the Era of SWaP
Minimizing size, weight, and power (SWaP) while maintaining performance and reliability is a major challenge for designers tasked with the development of modern-day electrical and computer equipment for the military market. The shift from analog to digital electronics has brought new and improved capabilities in smaller package sizes.…
What are MIL-C-5015/SAE-AS50151 connectors?
What are MIL-C-5015/SAE-AS50151 connectors?
Meet the Connector: MIL-C-5015/SAE-AS50151 Connectors With nearly a century of service in harsh environment equipment, this connector family has proven performance in military and other rugged electronics. MIL-C-5015 connectors, now formally known as SAE-AS50151, are heavy-duty, medium-density circular electrical connectors with soldered or crimped contacts. This military standard…
MIL-Spec-Approved Circular Connectors and Commercial Equivalents
MIL-Spec-Approved Circular Connectors and Commercial Equivalents
This week’s Product Roundup highlights MIL-Spec-approved circular connectors and commercial equivalents from leading suppliers. Mil-Spec-Approved Circular Connectors and Commercial Equivalents Power Connector (PCI), a Trexon company, is a leader in the design and development of standard and custom TacCom connectors. PCI offers an extensive range of products for…
What are N-Type Connectors?
What are N-Type Connectors?
Meet the Connector: N-Type Connectors N-Type connector, or simply N connector, is an RF connector used to join coaxial cables. It was invented by Paul Neill of Bell Labs in the 1940s and was subsequently named for him. This medium-size, threaded, waterproof connector was one of the first…
Connectivity Innovations in Aerospace Applications
Connectivity Innovations in Aerospace Applications
The unique connectivity requirements of the aerospace market continue to motivate ongoing innovation. Minimal size and weight, resistance to shock and vibration, high data rate speeds, and high reliability are critical attributes for even the smallest components in aircraft. The MIL-DTL-38999 series of connectors has been around since…
Planning High-Reliability Aerospace Systems with Hermetic Connectors
Planning High-Reliability Aerospace Systems with Hermetic Connectors
Hermetic connectors protect critical electronic systems from harsh environments. Designing in these specialized components requires strategic planning to reduce costs, mitigate risks, increase performance, and maximize longevity. Look up. Millions of hermetic connectors are in the skies above us, creating essential links between cables and electronic circuits in…
Rugged Connectors in Space Environments
Rugged Connectors in Space Environments
New ruggedized connector solutions reach for the stars with materials and designs that deliver high reliability, flexibility, cost-savings, and meet the strict qualifications for top performance in space. From high vibration and shock during launch, to extreme temperatures, radiation, and electrostatic discharge (ESD), equipment leaving Earth’s atmosphere must…
What are MIL-DTL-28840 Connectors?
What are MIL-DTL-28840 Connectors?
Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-28840 Connectors MIL-DTL-28840 connectors are high-density circular connectors used for harsh environment military applications. Originally developed for the Navy, they are used in shipboard applications for surface craft of all sizes as well as submarines and unmanned underwater vehicles. They are water-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and can…
MIL-Spec-Approved Rectangular Connectors Product Roundup
MIL-Spec-Approved Rectangular Connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights MIL-Spec-approved rectangular connectors from leading suppliers. MIL-Spec-Approved Rectangular Connectors   Cinch Dura-Con MIL-DTL-83513 Micro-D Connectors are designed for applications that require a rugged, high-performance, densely compacted connector and shorter signal paths. They are widely specified for satellites, miniaturized military and aerospace electronics, and…
Connector Suppliers Join the Electric Era of Aviation
Connector Suppliers Join the Electric Era of Aviation
EV technologies now extend to electric aircraft. Connector designers are developing the lightweight, powerful, and rugged interconnects needed for this new industry to take flight. Canada’s Harbour Air, North America's largest seaplane airline, and Australian engineering firm magniX, specializing in all-electric propulsion, have developed the world's first all-electric commercial aircraft. The…
One Size Does Not Fit All: Optimized RF Connectors are Crucial to System Performance
One Size Does Not Fit All: Optimized RF Connectors are Crucial to System Performance
New locking miniature push-on (TLMP) and locking miniature blind mate (TLMB) connectors overcome SMP connectors’ susceptibility to EMI and EMC interference, and liquid and salt ingress. These rugged connectors are suitable for use in harsh mil/aero environments.  RF reliability and performance depend on a perfect fit between the…
What are MIL-PRF-28876 connectors?
What are MIL-PRF-28876 connectors?
Meet the Connector: MIL-PRF-28876 connectors MIL-PRF-28876 connectors, also known as M28876s, are military standard fiber optic circular connectors used in rugged naval applications where reliability, sealing, durability, and a secure latch are essential to performance in harsh environment conditions. They are widely used by the U.S. Navy and…
Fiber Optic MIL/Aero Cable Assemblies Product Roundup
Fiber Optic MIL/Aero Cable Assemblies Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights fiber optic MIL/Aero cable assemblies from leading suppliers. Fiber-Optic MIL/Aero Cable Assemblies Amphenol Aerospace offers a comprehensive line of single-mode and multi-mode cable assemblies in a variety of cable configurations, from simplex jumpers to multi-fiber custom assemblies. High quality polishing processes meet and…
How to Specify a Custom Hermetic Connector Solution
How to Specify a Custom Hermetic Connector Solution
In equipment destined for the extreme conditions of aerospace, military, medical, and other critical markets, sealing technologies can impact the performance of not just a single connector but an entire system. Sometimes a custom connector with a hermetic seal is the best solution. Commercial aviation and military aircraft…
What are SMP Connectors?
What are SMP Connectors?
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)…
Strategic Connector Selection for Unmanned Military Systems
Strategic Connector Selection for Unmanned Military Systems
Drones and other unmanned aircraft play a critical role in military operations. Five key attributes guide military and aerospace designers as they specify interconnects for these systems. The U.S. Army’s vision statement in its 2010–2035 roadmap for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) begins, “Army UAS employed across all tactical…
Advanced Air Mobility Certification Pitfalls: The Cost-Saving Benefits of Bringing in Certification Experts Early
Advanced Air Mobility Certification Pitfalls: The Cost-Saving Benefits of Bringing in Certification Experts Early
The Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market landscape is pushing the technological boundaries of the old tried-and-true methodologies, including new aircraft certification. However, they must still adhere to fundamental safety regulations. The aerospace industry has historically been one of tried-and-true technology and processes. However, with the explosion of markets…
Mini-Mil-Circular Connectors Product Roundup
Mini-Mil-Circular Connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights Mini-MIL circular connectors from leading suppliers. Mini-Mil-Circular Connectors ITT Cannon’s innovative MKJ line of miniature circular connectors brings together a unique combination of design, functionality, and flexibility. These reliable and cost-effective interconnect solutions enable critical communication, navigation, and high-speed data transmission at half…
Connectors for Space Applications Require Radiation-Resistance
Connectors for Space Applications Require Radiation-Resistance
When designing and implementing connectivity solutions for use in space applications, one crucial consideration is the effect radiation will have on electronic connectors and cables. Three separate but interrelated aspects of this come into play: the radiation itself, atomic oxygen, and outgassing. Space is a unique type of…
Nano-Circular Connectors for Sensor Designs in Rugged Applications 
Nano-Circular Connectors for Sensor Designs in Rugged Applications 
As we place sensors in more rugged environments and extend their uses beyond flat mounting applications, nano-circular connectors and round cable rise to lead in solution-based design strategies. New data-acquisition and information-monitoring technologies have given rise to a completely new field of high-speed image detectors, material sensors, pressure…
What are MIL-DTL-24308 connectors?
What are MIL-DTL-24308 connectors?
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…
Mil-Spec Cable and Cable Assemblies Product Roundup
Mil-Spec Cable and Cable Assemblies Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights Mil-Spec cables and cable assemblies from leading suppliers. Mil-Spec Cable and Cable Assemblies EZ Form Cable, a Trexon Company, has 27 active semi-rigid cables that are qualified to MIL-DTL-17 and listed on the Qualified Products List (QPL) of the U.S. Defense Logistics Agency…
New Variation on Single-Pair Ethernet Puts M8s and M12s in the Mix
New Variation on Single-Pair Ethernet Puts M8s and M12s in the Mix
Do we need yet another single-pair Ethernet interface? Advocates say twisted-pair technology in an M8 or M12 interface would bring huge benefits to autonomous systems.  Single-pair Ethernet (SPE) will greatly improve the flexibility of automation within the connected industrial environment. Previously, Ethernet connections allowed the cloud to talk to the main control room (where software…
High-Density MT-Based Optical Solution Brings Big Bandwidth Boost
High-Density MT-Based Optical Solution Brings Big Bandwidth Boost
A new high-density MT-based optical interconnect is coming soon. With up to four MT ferrules accommodating up to 96 optical channels, VITA 87 brings big bandwidth in a small footprint.     The addition of complex embedded systems to the next generation of multi-functional military equipment is driving a new wave of development in associated components.…
What are MIL-DTL-38999 Connectors?
What are MIL-DTL-38999 Connectors?
Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-38999 Connectors MIL-DTL-38999 connectors, also called D38999s, are a subminiature high-speed circular connector used for military, aerospace, and other rugged, high-reliability applications. They are rugged and environmentally resistant and feature removable crimp or fixed solder contacts. The 38999 is one of the best-selling connectors in…
Circular Mil-spec Connectors Product Roundup
Circular Mil-spec Connectors Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights circular Mil-spec connectors from leading suppliers. Circular MIL-Spec Connectors CDM Electronics supplies Amphenol PCD MIL-DTL-55181-spec QPL’d Tactical Communications Power Connectors, qualified to MIL-C-55181. MW Series Power Connectors have a center lock coupling screw to ensure the connector can withstand high shock and vibration,…
Utilizing Solderless Compression Interposers in Harsh-Environment Applications
Utilizing Solderless Compression Interposers in Harsh-Environment Applications
These interposers are a great alternative to traditional pin-and-socket interconnects in harsh-environment board-to-board or board-to-flex circuit applications. For the vast majority of applications, the pin-and-socket interface remains the contact of choice. Pin-and-socket contacts can be found in just about every application imaginable. But there is another option that should be considered and, in some instances,…
VITA Standards Support RF/Microwave Backplane Solutions
VITA Standards Support RF/Microwave Backplane Solutions
The VITA 67 standards define the RF connector modules used in VPX architectures. Learn more about these important standards, including the latest, VITA 67.3. Embedded computing is a critical part of many military and aerospace applications. Along with the proliferation of these applications, the VITA OpenVPX standards have…
Fiber Optic Connectors for MIL/Aero Applications Product Roundup
Fiber Optic Connectors for MIL/Aero Applications Product Roundup
This week’s Product Roundup highlights MIL/Aero fiber optic connectors from leading suppliers. Fiber Optic Connectors for MIL/Aero Applications Interstate Connecting Components (ICC) supplies Amphenol’s new M28876 connectors. Amphenol Fiber 28876 connectors are qualified to MIL-PRF-28876, Rev. F., and feature black hard anodized (BHA) PTFE plating for superior performance…
Green Energy Projects, EVs, & MIL-Aero Programs Set to Expand in 2022
Green Energy Projects, EVs, & MIL-Aero Programs Set to Expand in 2022
Evolving technologies in the energy, automotive, military, and datacom markets will continue to drive innovation in connectivity.   The pace of technological advancement continues in the COVID era. The mRNA vaccines produced to combat COVID-19 are the result of years of development to create other anti-virus mRNA vaccines. Processes now have been optimized so…
SWaP-Optimized Rectangular Connectors for Harsh-Environment Mil/Aero Connectivity
SWaP-Optimized Rectangular Connectors for Harsh-Environment Mil/Aero Connectivity
Rectangular connectors offer significant size and weight reductions, effective EMI protection, and meet military and aerospace qualifications. They offer valuable cost and performance benefits compared to traditional circular connectors.  Connectivity solutions for military and aerospace projects often need to be optimized for size, weight, and power (SWaP) to…
New Connector Design Addresses Significant SMP Shortcomings
New Connector Design Addresses Significant SMP Shortcomings
The SMP connector came on the scene as a smaller alternative to SMA connectors. Now a new generation of LMP connectors are available for high-reliability, high-vibration, and high-power applications. By Times Microwave Systems The RF industry has been using sub-miniature push-on connectors (SMPs) for decades. Originally marketed by Gilbert…
Connectors in Space
Connectors in Space
The space market is booming and connector suppliers are finding more and more opportunities to be a part of it. However, strict regulations and extreme environmental conditions add to the challenges suppliers face as they launch their space-grade connectors into what is quickly becoming a growth industry. Because…
Miniature Connectors Empower Military Robotics
Miniature Connectors Empower Military Robotics
Robotics have become essential tools for the military. Miniature connector and cable interconnections specified for military robotic applications can be selected or designed to create a system that can endure unique conditions and hazards while providing reliable performance. Robotics are increasingly essential to military operations. They provide early…
Circular Connector Market Continues to Expand
Circular Connector Market Continues to Expand
Led by strong growth in the military/aerospace and commercial/industrial markets, circular connectors see continued strength even amid the disruptions of the pandemic. While some industries suffered huge declines last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the connector industry briefly slowed and then recovered with unexpected strength, declining only…
The Race to Smaller, Lighter, Faster Aircraft
The Race to Smaller, Lighter, Faster Aircraft
The small aircraft marketplace is booming and the push to develop fully electric vehicles is driving design changes that are even trickling back to traditional aircraft. Smaller, lighter, faster — a mantra throughout the electronics industry — certainly applies to the small aircraft market. Growing demand for high-performance,…
DFA Reduces the Cost Impact of High-Reliability Connectors in Military and Aerospace Applications
DFA Reduces the Cost Impact of High-Reliability Connectors in Military and Aerospace Applications
The precision and performance benefits of custom connectors are brought within reach through design for assembly principles. By Advanced Interconnections Corp. Military and aerospace applications specify high-reliability connectors to meet performance requirements that lower-cost commodity connectors cannot provide. One of the ways to offset the additional expense of…
Testing Integrated Circuits using High-Frequency Interconnect
Testing Integrated Circuits using High-Frequency Interconnect
When an interconnection network is inserted within a transmission line between an IC device and the attaching PCB, the connectors used must provide superior electrical performance while also meeting a range of mechanical requirements. Integrated circuits have transformed electronic device design. Integrated circuits, also called ICs or semiconductor…
Outgassing Components Pose Risk to Sensitive Electronics
Outgassing Components Pose Risk to Sensitive Electronics
Careful materials selection and specialty outgassing processes help reduce volatile gases present in connected systems. On Earth, our concerns about outgassing center on the impact of particulate chemicals on human health. The synthetic materials in petroleum- and chemical-based products such as plastics, furniture, carpet, paint, and adhesives release…
Design Evolution in Today’s Orbital Satellite Systems
Design Evolution in Today’s Orbital Satellite Systems
The ability of satellites to quickly collect large amounts of data has made them invaluable for communications, GPS, weather applications, and more. Like space technologies, new satellite designs are becoming smaller, even as they provide greater functionality. The world has benefited from the development of orbiting satellites. The…
Wearable Military Technologies Keep Troops Agile and Informed
Wearable Military Technologies Keep Troops Agile and Informed
Maintaining a clear line of communication in challenging environments and unpredictable situations requires innovative military technologies. Wearable devices rise to the challenge. Battlefield communications go beyond exchanging voice messages. Video and data must be relayed and processed quickly, possibly in high-pressure situations. Military technologies must be multi-functional and portable. Instead of adding more devices and bulking out the…
When is a Custom Connector the Best Option?
When is a Custom Connector the Best Option?
With millions of connector products ready for order from trusted suppliers and distributors, designers should be able to find a suitable solution for their project. But sometimes, they can’t. That’s when customization comes in. A quick search of any major distributor’s inventory turns up millions of connector products.…
Top 12 Technology Trends: The Evolution of Proprietary to Open Source Connectors
Top 12 Technology Trends: The Evolution of Proprietary to Open Source Connectors
Sometimes a custom connector design will remain a limited-use product. Other times, it may become a popular proprietary connector. In some instances, the evolution continues and the connector experiences widespread use as a commercial or open-source product. This is the eighth installment in the Technology Trends series by…
Small Robotic Military Devices Go Where Soldiers Can’t
Small Robotic Military Devices Go Where Soldiers Can’t
Throwbots, insectoid robots, and other small tactical robotic devices can act as advance teams on missions. These micro-machines can reach hazardous or inaccessible areas to collect and transmit vital information. A soldier with a good throwing arm is a valuable asset in battle. Hand grenades — first invented…
How to Choose a Screw-Machined Parts Supplier for Mil/Aero Product Development
How to Choose a Screw-Machined Parts Supplier for Mil/Aero Product Development
Reliable, screw-machined parts help ensure the optimal operation of connectors employed in mission-critical applications. It’s important to select a supplier that understands the unique requirements of this market. High-precision screw-machined parts are critical components of advanced interconnect products. Screw-machined parts include PCB tail pins and sockets, crimp barrel…
UAS and Drone Technologies Help Fight Fires From Above
UAS and Drone Technologies Help Fight Fires From Above
The use of unmanned aircraft system (UAS) technologies in wildland and municipal firefighting operations is rapidly expanding, and making fire management safer and more effective for teams on the ground. Firefighters on the ground level have an incomplete picture of the challenge they face. In a wildland fire…
Mil-Spec Pins and Sockets Directly Contribute to Rugged, Reliable Defense Connectors
Mil-Spec Pins and Sockets Directly Contribute to Rugged, Reliable Defense Connectors
Precision-manufactured pins and sockets designed with both MIL specs and applications in mind provide superior reliability and durability in harsh-environment defense applications. These contacts are critical building blocks for military connectors that must perform under pressure on land, at sea, and in the skies above. By Steve Smashey,…
The Need for Adaptability in Aerospace Markets is Driving Interconnect Innovation
The Need for Adaptability in Aerospace Markets is Driving Interconnect Innovation
New connectors, new materials, new customers, and new technologies are making big impacts in the military and aerospace markets. We spoke to an expert at Amphenol Aerospace to learn more. The events of 2020 provided a sneak preview of the way the connector industry can adapt to serve…
New High-Speed Information and Communication Technologies Will Affect Our Lives and Businesses in 2021
New High-Speed Information and Communication Technologies Will Affect Our Lives and Businesses in 2021
In the year ahead, we’ll see AI, IoT and IIoT technologies, cloud computing, 5G communications, blockchain, UAVs, and robotics impact nearly every market. These transformative technologies are becoming more pervasive and more proficient. As we move into 2021, multiple breakthrough technologies are being implemented that will affect our…
Underwater Connectors Get Smaller and Tougher for Submarines and UUVs
Underwater Connectors Get Smaller and Tougher for Submarines and UUVs
Undersea applications for connectors used by the U.S. Navy are expanding. Not only are submarines now joined by unmanned underwater vehicles, but a third emerging category includes devices used in seabed warfare and communications. The undersea environment is one of the harshest that military electronics systems must withstand.…
The Importance of Manufacturability in New Connector Product Designs
The Importance of Manufacturability in New Connector Product Designs
When new or custom connectivity products are the right solution for a design challenge, connector suppliers must meet complex design requirements and develop efficient manufacturing processes to produce high-quality products at a reasonable cost. Manufacturability is a critical consideration in the design of a new connector product. In…
Small, Lightweight Connectors Enable Today’s Powerful Optical Electronics
Small, Lightweight Connectors Enable Today’s Powerful Optical Electronics
The latest generation of high-tech digital cameras has been sized down for small, lightweight military, medical, and surveillance equipment. High-speed miniature interconnect products make it possible to capture and send images in even the most rigorous operating conditions. High-speed cameras, machine learning, and robotics are changing the world…
Military Programs Use Multi-Port and Cluster Connectors for State-of-the-Art RF Performance
Military Programs Use Multi-Port and Cluster Connectors for State-of-the-Art RF Performance
Multi-port connectors reduce system cost, speed installation time, and improve reliability. As 5G technologies continue to develop for commercial and military use, these important connectivity solutions will have greatly increased utilization. The concept of multi-port connectors has evolved from arrays of discrete coaxes to complex assemblies with multiple…
Choosing the Right PCB Mounting Method for High Shock and Vibration
Choosing the Right PCB Mounting Method for High Shock and Vibration
Electronics that are subject to harsh military and aerospace operating environments require secure mounting. Several popular specifications give designers options. A few weeks ago, I was discussing work with an engineer friend, and we got onto the subject of connectors that are subjected to high shock and vibration…
Irregular PCB Configurations Require Small Connectors and Creative Solutions
Irregular PCB Configurations Require Small Connectors and Creative Solutions
When a traditional rectangular connector isn’t the right fit for a unique PCB shape, engineers must look for a creative solution. Sometimes that solution is a custom connector that can deliver the needed space savings and the reliability required for mission-critical military applications.  By Jim Murphy, International Sales Manager, Advanced…
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