The size of computers has dramatically shrunk, from room-sized machines to tiny devices. But the power needed for web-based communications has made huge server facilities essential to support operations. The computer server industry has undergone continuous technology shifts since its inception. We have come a long way from the IBM Automatic Sequence Controlled Calculator, knownRead More

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 soldier, new wearable technologies are creating aRead More

From multifunctional fitness trackers and smartwatches to tiny medical devices that deliver medicine or vital information, consumers have embraced wearable technologies. Consumers have embraced the concept of wearable devices and the industry is responding in a big way. From step counters to heart monitors, consumers have shown a strong interest in monitoring their health andRead More

Small, lightweight, and wearable doesn’t cut it for designers of e-textiles. New flexible, conductive fabrics make wearable electronics even more comfortable and connected. The continuous downscaling of connectivity products has opened up new possibilities in the world of e-textiles. In this emerging area of electronic design, engineers have moved beyond small and lightweight wearables that can be attachedRead More

Heavy-duty machinery is essential for a range of energy, infrastructure, and development projects. Today, construction equipment is including more smart technologies and the interconnect solutions in these powerful machines need to facilitate high-level connectivity under rugged conditions. A period of massive construction and redevelopment is about to transform the global built environment. New roads, bridges,Read More

Quantum mechanics technology could not have come at a better time, as traditional chip technology is approaching its technical and economic limits. The bizarre science of quantum mechanics challenges our perception of the physical world. In his 370 BCE dialogue “The Phaedrus,” Plato wrote, “Things are not always what they seem; the first appearance deceivesRead More

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 in the 8th century for use byRead More

As consumers begin to return to public spaces, a new crop of smart technologies is helping to keep surfaces clean, air clear, and viruses safely away. As vaccination rates rise and infection rates fall, consumers are beginning to venture back into public spaces and resume normal activities, including eating at restaurants, returning to school andRead More

Desalination and wastewater treatment plants are becoming more efficient and cost-effective with the use of automated control systems and rugged and resilient electronics that can endure immersion and corrosion. The availability of fresh water is easy to take for granted where it’s readily available, but water security is a growing global concern. Climate change, populationRead More

A new generation of robotic medical equipment is helping medical providers deliver automated care protocols, sterilize facilities, and conduct surgical procedures, as well as reduce risk and improve patient outcomes. Surgical suites and intensive care units are some of the most high-risk work environments within hospitals. It is imperative to clean, disinfect, and sterilize surgicalRead More

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 situation, they cannot see the extent ofRead More

A progression of system packaging options provide a roadmap to supporting the high speeds inherent in next-generation equipment. As 112G becomes a reality, co-packaged optics offer the best signal integrity. Since the advent of multigigabit signaling, design engineers have struggled to find ways to minimize the negative effects of conducting high-speed signals through copper tracesRead More