Cobots require high levels of functional safety, high load-bearing capacity with increased arm speed, and a lightweight design. Specialized connector solutions make it so. The industrial robotics space is changing fast. The latest generation of robots is taking on more complex tasks than ever before — and increasingly working alongside humans. Collaborative robots, or cobots,Read More
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 (now part of Corning) in the lateRead More
The pandemic delayed the release of the Gen3 racing car, but a souped up Gen2 car is ready for the races. In 2022, electric car technologies will make a dramatic impact as automakers introduce the largest ever field of new EVs. But leading the way are the high performance race cars in the ABB FIA FormulaRead More
New medical wearable device innovations count on miniaturized connectors that can perform reliability under the stresses of use and cleaning processes. Miniaturized Connectors In today’s fast-growing medical wearable markets, designers must create safe devices that provide effective performance in astoundingly small form factors. Ultra-miniaturized interconnect solutions support these products’ power and signal requirements. However, theRead More
From seed to harvest, a range of digitalized heavy equipment and small electronic technologies are changing the way forests are managed. Around 15 billion trees are cut down each year to meet humanity’s need for lumber, fuel, and paper products, as well as to clear forests for new construction and agriculture. Meanwhile, 1.8 billion newRead More
The possibilities that connected LED lighting offer go far beyond illuminating spaces. Smart, programmable lighting is bringing creativity and efficiency to the built environment. An ongoing evolution in lighting technologies is bringing new creativity and functionality to buildings, industrial sites, and urban infrastructure for industrial lighting. This evolution is largely driven by LED technology. TheRead More
New optical cables, advanced modulation technology, and improved high-density multi-fiber connectors mean that we may be closer than ever to the Shannon Limit. Copper PCB traces and cables have ruled the world of high-speed data transmission by continuing to find ways to reduce signal attenuation, distortion, and sensitivity to external interference. Long predicted to beRead More
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 of the high cost of deployment andRead More
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 surveillance information to help commanders plan strategies.Read More
After more than 50 years of miniaturization, the transistor and Moore’s Law may be nearing their technical and economic limits. However, new innovations in silicon photonics promise to extend the evolutionary timeline into the future. This is the eleventh in a series of articles that review leading technology trends that have had a significant impactRead More
The rescheduled, relocated DesignCon was heavily impacted by the ongoing pandemic. However, high-speed innovation appears to be unstoppable. Bob Hult shares his observations on the 26th annual event and new connector products introduced. DesignCon 2021 was unlike any of the previous 25 years’ events. The continuing prevalence of COVID-19 resulted in the rescheduling of theRead More
In high-use automation applications, repeated mating cycles can result in wear that compromises connectivity and reliability. Contactless connectors offer a new alternative. By Weidmueller Mechanical connections present challenges in industrial applications that endure repeated mating cycles. When two mating interfaces interact, inevitable wear and friction cause a range of contact-related failures and maintenance issues. AsRead More
