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

The annual distributors’ gathering was back on after a virtual year. Companies reported a great year despite pandemic and supply chain disruptions. After two years of digital presentations in 2020 and 2021, the Electronics Distributors Show (EDS) resumed its annual Las Vegas rituals this year. Meeting in person from May 9-13, 2022, more than 400Read 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: 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

Wearable consumer-grade technology provided valuable diagnostic information, which led to a successful therapeutic treatment that saved my life. In mid-February, one of my doctors detected an irregular heartbeat during a routine office visit and suggested I see a cardiologist. The cardiologist requested approval from my medical insurance provider for a routine resting electrocardiogram (ECG) andRead More

Upcoming industry events, as well as recent award, partnership, promotion, personnel, facility, distribution, standards, association, and certification news from across the connector industry. April 2022 Connector Industry News April 2022 Connector Industry News > Event News The HARTING-supported Volkswagen ID.4 will be part of the “Driving Toward Tomorrow” multimedia exhibition series at the Peterson AutomotiveRead 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

European cities are meeting the call to expand the electric vehicle charging network with some creative ideas — and versatile charging connectors — where space is tight. The widespread adoption of electric vehicles has hit several bumps in the road. However, things are changing rapidly; sales in Europe more than doubled in 2021 over 2020,Read More

Upcoming industry events, as well as recent award, partnership, promotion, personnel, facility, distribution, standards, association, and certification news from across the connector industry. March 2022 Connector Industry News March 2022 Connector Industry News > Event News In its attempt to break the world sailing speed record, the SP80 team has chosen Fischer Connectors to supplyRead More

This week’s Product Roundup highlights connectors for electric vehicles from leading suppliers. Connectors for Electric Vehicles Allied Electronics & Automation supplies the SurLok Plus compression lug from Amphenol. SurLok Plus for EVs and HEVs is a field installable, highly reliable alternative to common compression lugs. Using industry-standard crimp, screw, and busbar termination options, it eliminatesRead More

This week’s Product Roundup highlights the advantages of various platings and housings from leading suppliers. Connector Materials: Platings & Housing Intercompact from Smiths Interconnect features insulators in proprietary Liquid Cristal Polymer material and hyperboloid contact technology for an optimized insulation resistance in severe environment conditions. The very low contact resistance of the Hypertac socket ensuresRead More

Meet the Connector: Push-in Wire Connectors Push-in wire connectors are insulated wire connectors that are used in electrical systems, including commercial and residential lighting, digital signage, and other building electrical systems. They are used in place of traditional twist-on connectors or wire nuts. This connector type is easy to use, enables fast connections, and oftenRead More