Quantum computers are expected to solve some of the world’s most complex problems. Fabricating interconnects is one of the most complex problems when building quantum computers. Quantum computers need connectors that can withstand cryogenic temperatures, with non-magnetic construction, that operate at microwave frequencies with low losses to reduce heating and improve data transfer. High-density hermetically […]
Electronics
Rotary slip ring connectors — what are they used for?
Rotary slip ring connectors are important components in various applications like multi-axis robots in industry 4.0, wind turbines for sustainable green energy, machine tools, medical systems, and more. This FAQ considers how slip ring connectors differ from commutators, and how mercury-wetted, pancake, and wireless slip ring connectors work, their capabilities, and reviews applications where they […]
Where are liquid-cooled connectors and connectors for liquid cooling used in EVs?
Liquid-cooled connectors are used for carrying high power levels like those found in extreme fast charging (XFC) EV chargers. Connectors for liquid cooling are more common and used for cooling EV battery packs, cooling XFC EV charging stations, and other thermally demanding applications. This FAQ reviews the performance and use cases for liquid-cooled connectors and […]
How are terahertz connectors different?
Terahertz (THz) systems represent one of the next frontiers in electronics. THz applications are expected to include automotive advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) for autonomous vehicles, next-generation telephony like 5G and 6G, augmented and virtual reality (AR & VR) technologies for the metaverse, and more. There will be numerous challenges to overcome in the development […]
How can connector sustainability be improved?
Before it became fashionable, connector makers were at the forefront of sustainability. It started with replacing cadmium plating to meet RoHS requirements and soon expanded to using plastic regrinds and bio-based plastics instead of 100% new plastics for connector bodies. Connector makers have more recently embraced new, more sustainable materials for high-performance contacts. This FAQ […]
Are gold- or silver-plated connectors or contacts right for my application?
Learn the proper electrodeposition for contacts and connectors to ensure reliability in your electrical devices. Contributed by Luke Copp • Sales & Marketing Associate for Advanced Plating Technologies Modern manufacturing relies on critical connections made via strong electroplating, as more and more devices are connected to provide instant access to information and data. However, any electrical […]
Board-to-board connectors meet automotive and industrial standards
Interplex has just released its multi-row board-to-board (BTB) connector product with a proprietary snap-in biscuit design allowing multiple connector units to be stacked together. This means interconnections can be appropriately sized while avoiding the need for them to be custom-built. The unique cost-effective approach that Interplex has taken will enable different pin count requirements to […]
In-line jack connector added to industrial product line
Hirose has expanded its ix Industrial connector series to include an in-line jack version. Supporting CAT5e (1 Gbps) and CAT6A (10 Gbps) cabling, the new ix40G in-line jack variation addresses market needs for simpler, space-reducing wiring of equipment across longer distances. In addition to in-line connection, the ix Industrial in-line jack supports panel mounting for […]
An overview of circular connectors and cables
Circular connectors have been utilized for many years as reliable components that can operate in a variety of harsh environments. True to their name, circular connectors are cylindrical-shaped interconnects carrying a wide number of pin options for transferring electrical power, signals, and data. Because of their rugged design, circular connectors and cables are often found […]
Connectors and cables modernize data centers
Demands for bandwidth-intensive, data-driven services are fueling a rise in compute, data storage, and networking capabilities. These rises put pressure on connectors and cable to deliver data at higher speeds with better signals and less heat.