Connector plating is a thin metallic layer applied to contact surfaces to improve conductivity, corrosion resistance, and durability. Manufacturers use various platings to optimize electrical performance, mechanical reliability, and cost across applications. This article reviews common noble metals used in connector plating and discusses how nickel-based platings improve wear resistance and reliability. It also highlights […]
Electronics
What are the top EMI/RFI considerations for connector design and selection?
Connectors link multiple electronic components to transmit power and signals across one or many systems. This article details key connector design considerations, focusing on mitigating electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). It also reviews criteria for selecting EMI/RFI-resistant connectors, discusses compliance and standards, and offers technical tips for testing and maintaining shielding. Exploring […]
Where are wet mate connectors used?
Wet mate connectors are used in applications where connections need to be made and broken underwater, such as oil and gas wells, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), marine and oceanographic exploration, aquaculture, and fish farming, underwater lighting and video monitoring systems, and offshore renewable energy. This article reviews several wet-mate options, including gold-plated and niobium-based electrical […]
What types of connectors are used in downhole drilling rigs?
The environment in downhole drilling rigs is harsh. It begins with extremely high pressures and temperatures (HPHT). The connectors in these applications must survive HPHT and corrosive environments and still deliver outstanding electrical and mechanical performance. They must be compact to fit into restricted spaces, handle electrical power, and provide signal interconnects for sensors and […]
What’s a thermal connector?
A thermal connector, sometimes called a cold-end termination, is designed to connect temperature sensors to measuring instruments, like thermocouples or resistance temperature detectors (RTDs). Thermocouples and RTD connectors are used in a wide range of scientific and industrial systems in aerospace, chemical, food and beverage, oil and gas, pharmaceutical, and nuclear power generation. Two standard […]
Spring pins operate from -40° C to 85° C in three mounting styles
Same Sky’s Interconnect Group announced the expansion of its pogo pins product line with the introduction of 40 new models. The CPG family of pogo pins offers gold-plated contacts for high reliability with mating cycle ratings now up to 20,000 cycles. Housed in surface mount, wire mount, and through-hole packages, the CPG models feature initial […]
Connectors meet standards for shock, vibration, and ingress protection
binder’s molded M16 circular connectors are designed for applications ranging from heavy-duty machinery like construction cranes and excavators to precision-driven laboratory equipment. They are engineered to meet diverse requirements and ensure stable and reliable connections in extreme conditions, such as freezing temperatures and exposure to dirt and dust. The new generation of molded M16 connectors […]
Digital design tools and expanded connector product portfolio showcased at electronica 2024
Harwin will showcase digital product selection tools and connector technology at electronica 2024, booth A2.335, from November 12-15 in Munich. The company’s technical specialists will demonstrate online services, including an interactive cable configurator with 3D rendering from Cadenas and the SnapMagic (formerly SnapEDA) search engine solution. These tools aim to support product selection and application […]
mmWaves bring interconnect challenges to 5G and 6G
Signals in the mmWave range require extra care and more expensive components than at sub-6 GHz frequencies. Data demands keep pushing for more bandwidth in wireless networks, and this trend will surely continue. AI, autonomous vehicles, AR/VR, and other technologies will see to that. The mmWave spectrum allocated for 5G can meet the bandwidth needs, […]
How do modular wiring harnesses support zonal architectures?
Vehicle wiring harnesses without a zonal architecture can have over 1,000 wires connecting over a hundred ECUs. They are difficult to fabricate and install, and changes can be difficult and costly to implement. However, using modular wiring harnesses in zonal architectures can overcome those challenges. A zonal architecture places electronic control units (ECUs) in multiple […]