Molex Incorporated has announced that its heavy-duty TM-4000 Universal Crimp Press provides up to 31 kN (7000lbf) for bench-top crimping large lug products of up to 4 AWG.

The TM-4000 Universal Crimp Press is an inexpensive, electrically controlled, direct-drive press designed for mid-volume, semi-automatic bench-top operations such as those found in the automotive, industrial and commercial markets. Capable of production rates of up to 2,400 terminations per hour, the TM-4000 offers contract manufacturers, assembly houses and design engineers an effective and affordable method of applying a wide range of side- and rear-feed terminals to heavy-gauge wires.

Tyco Electronics has launched a new board-to-board screw-down jumper assembly for use in LED lighting strips, lighting controls, and channel lettering. The RoHS-compliant jumper, which was originally designed for T8 and T12 fluorescent retrofit tubes, specifically serves the solid state lighting (SSL) market.

If ancient armies marched on their stomachs, today’s defence forces gain their superiority from an intensive diet of electronic intelligence. With large quantities of electronic equipment operating within a relatively small space, assurances on Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) have assumed greater importance.

Moreover, as an army’s opponents become more adept at intercepting information, and new types of intelligent weaponry such as situational awareness systems are able to identify targets by their electromagnetic footprint, government agencies and other specifiers are setting increasingly stringent EMC standards. In fact, these criteria often make up the most rigorous aspect of the design and development specification for new military equipment.

Samtec has unveiled its new line of power interconnect solutions. The PowerStrip/10 family features an ultra small, space saving design and dual leaf blade contacts capable of carrying from 14A to 23A per contact at a 30˚C temperature rise (depending on the number of contacts powered).

Harting has introduced a new version of the Han DD industrial connector module which includes the company's Quick Lock termination technique for on-site assembly in the field without the need for special tools.

The development of an established module with a track record complements the existing crimp connection version, and enables simple and rapid field assembly. In addition, the Quick-Lock technique incorporates reliable and vibration-resistant contacts to provide improved levels of safety for some of the most demanding applications in industry and traffic engineering.

Connectors designed for the rail industry cover a wide range of applications and operating environments. They have to meet requirements for use inside, above and below the rail car, on trackside equipment and elsewhere within the rail infrastructure. To meet these needs many leading connector manufacturers have developed a wide range of products particularly to comply with the requirements of this demanding yet burgeoning industry.

C&K Components has developed two Hall-effect contactless sensing analogue rocker switches. Designated the AR3 and AR5 analogue rockers, the switches are extremely durable and feature a rocker life of more than two million actuations, short circuit protection, and integrated temperature compensation.

"Both Hall-effect switches employ one sensor as standard and an optional second sensor, and provide a proportional function and cost-effective solution for off-road vehicle and heavy duty industrial equipment applications," said David Webber, director of product management for C&K Components. "Specifically, the AR3 and AR5 analog rocker switches are being specified for use in standard and custom multifunction grips, dashboard panels and armrest controls."

Tyco Electronics is offering the MAG-MATE insulation displacement crimp (IDC) interconnection system for fractional horsepower (FHP) motor manufacturers. The product helps drive down costs as the same part number qualifies for termination of both copper and aluminium magnet wires.

Specialist European-based RF and Microwave components supplier, Aaren Technology, has unveiled a new range of 'innovative' push fit terminations. They have been designed specifically to be compatible with all SMA style connectors, including 27GHz SMA, 3.5mm and 2.92mm connectors, and are ideal for both development and production test environments.

The model AT40T-40QB18 push fit terminations are specified with a power rating of 1W and an operating frequency range up to 18GHz. The VSWR specification is quoted as 1.15:1 up to 18GHz.

Molex Incorporated has released two additions to the Impact Backplane Connector System, its high-speed, high-density connector system for the telecommunication and data networking market.  The Impact CoPlanar Connector System and Impact Mezzanine Connector System provide greater flexibility to optimise designs for superior mechanical and electrical performance.

Harting’s Han Q 4/2 industrial connector – a high-current device that combined four power contacts rated at 40 A each along with two signal contacts rated at 10 A each – is now available with the company’s rapid wiring technology in a move designed to ease field assembly.

While the 40 A power contacts are connected using a standard hex key, the two 10 A signal contacts feature the Han-Quick Lock termination technology that dispenses with the need for special tools, requiring nothing more than a standard screwdriver.

Aerco is now stocking the Binder 620 series of sub-miniature, snap-in connectors that now includes over-moulded versions. The availability of ‘off the shelf’, fully tested, over-moulded sub-miniature connectors will be a benefit to manufacturers and users of sensors and measuring and control equipment, market areas in which these types of connectors are widely used.

Binder has launched a new over-moulded version of the 720 series of snap-in, low cost, waterproof circular connectors. Supplied as standard with a single ended moulded-on cable, these over-moulded connectors and cable assemblies will be 100% electrically tested and so will be suitable for manufacturers of laboratory equipment, medical equipment, instrumentation, communications systems and similar products.

Switchtec has unveiled a new range of versatile switch disconnectors which will be of particular use to applications that are subjected to wet, arduous conditions including outside use.

The TenD TD and TDS switch disconnectors are rated to IP65 and their main area of use is for isolating incoming supplies to a machine or equipment. The switches are used as the main on/off switch or isolating switch for general isolating duties or as emergency padlockable on/off switches within the contractor and control industries.

Lorlin Electronics is continuing to add to its UK manufactured range. The CKS and CKF rotary switch ranges, which already offer IP67/IP65 sealed versions, are now available as standard with low axial play, smooth feel and damped indexing for pro-audio, broadcast and high quality instrumentation applications.

AVX Corporation has expanded its 9159 Series solid-state lighting connector offering to include a miniature, single-sided SMT connector for PCB strip lighting applications. The 5A connectors have been designed to provide reliable board-to-board connection for end-to-end board mating, also known as “butt mating”, which optimises LED spacing for maximum optical performance. 

Omron Electronic Components Business Europe has introduced a Europe-based cable
harnessing capability covering its range of top quality relay, switch and connector products.

The introduction of local assembly for harnesses in Europe means that Omron can offer fast turnaround on samples, and produce volume quantities competitively to the relevant European standards. The harnesses are manufactured in Europe at an ISO9000 and TS16949 accredited facility, and meet the relevant European standards for wire harnessing and connectors.

FCI has announced that its QSFP+ (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable +) direct attach copper cable assemblies successfully passed all normative compliance testing at the 16th plugfest event sponsored by the Infiniband Trade Association (IBTA) at the University of New HampshireInterOperability Laboratory (UNH-IOL) in October 2009. The compliance testing verified the functionality of the cable assemblies to Infiniband Single Data Rate (SDR), Double Data Rate (DDR) and Quad Data Rate (QDR) performance requirements.

Deutsch UK has developed a new AS sensory connector, the AS Xtra-^Lite (ASX) which it launched at the Autosport International exhibition held at Birmingham NEC in January. Deutsch has reduced the weight of its previous micro ASU connector by 23 per cent, offering racing teams a lighter and smaller solution when space is at its most restrictive.

ITT Interconnect Solutions has developed a low cost 19-way commercial Pogo pin connector and cable assembly which meet the stringent electrical and mechanical specifications required in demanding environments including medical test and diagnostic equipment such as diagnostic imaging systems. Rated to IP 55, this new connector also suits other harsh environment applications including commercial aircraft electronics, instrumentation, and industrial equipment.

Molex Incorporated has introduced a new addition to its EdgeLine family of connectors. The EdgeLine CoEdge, which was recently nominated as a DesignVision finalist at the DesignCon 2010 show,  is a one-piece, 25 Gbps connector that is configured to meet an industry standard pitch of 0.80mm (.031”). This low-profile, dual-sided, edgecard connector supports sixteen PCB thickness variations with multiple circuit sizes for high-speed, industry-standard, edgecard applications.

Harting has launched a new range of power modules. The Ha-VIS pCon 2000 family of power-supply modules have been designed to offer high performance and reliability in industrial automation applications.

The new units, which are mechanically and electrically compatible with Harting's range of Ethernet switches and other active network components, combine ease of installation with the use of redundancy modules to ensure high system availability and hence reliability in areas such as control and switch cabinets.

New left and right hand plugs have been added to Tyco Electronics’ line of wire-to-board, Eurostyle terminal blocks. This product extension provides additional configurations of wire access angles to the standard 3.5mm and 3.81mm vertical and right angle headers. Specific applications of this product include control, input/output and field wiring.

C&K Components has expanded its ZMS Series subminiature snap-acting switch line to include right-angle mount configurations. The switches now feature a mounting hole with a locating stud, along with potted wire leads in straight and right angle configurations to meet IP67 sealing specifications.

Lane Electronics has announced the immediate availability of an environmentally-friendly co-axial cable. Called ENVIROFLEX, the cable is manufactured by HUBER+SUHNER and is a direct replacement for standard RG co-axial cables that contain halogen and in the case of fire produce highly toxic corrosive gases.

ENVIROFLEX is flame retardant, halogen free and is fully compatible with all standard connectors used with RG cables, including soldered inner conductor versions.

Molex Incorporated has launched the SlimStack Board-to-Board series of miniature connectors with a 0.40mm pitch, 0.70mm mated height and 2.60mm width. The new connectors have been designed to offer a better combination of overall space savings and reliable electrical contact when compared to similar versions in the marketplace today. 

“Molex designed and developed the new SlimStack series to meet surging market demand for downsizing of mobile devices. The new miniature connectors offer about 25 percent space savings compared to many competitive 0.40mm pitch types,” coomented Joseph Falcone, Group Product Manager, Molex.

GefenTV has announced that wireless for HDMI 60Ghz extender is shipping. This sender/receiver system is the fourth product from Gefen offering wireless video connectivity. It joins three other wireless products already shipping: the GefenTV Wireless for VGA; Gefen Wireless for HDMI UWB; and GefenTV Wireless for HDMI 5Ghz extenders.

The GefenTV Wireless for HDMI 60Ghz employs new multi-antenna technology from SiBEAM that enables HDMI extension supporting full HD resolutions at 1080p. This is the first wireless solution from Gefen that is uncompressed at the 3Ghz bandwidth, making it well suited for demanding applications like gaming. Multi-channel audio is delivered alongside the video with support for many HDMI v1.3 features.

International assembling distributor PEI-Genesis has expanded the range of products it stocks from manufacturer Amphenol Industrial Operations to include the Amphe-EX series of
ATEX-approved multi-pin hazardous-area connectors.

Specifically designed for use in harsh environments such as those associated with oil and gas exploration, petrochemical plants and fuel storage sites, Amphe-EX is an extremely versatile miniature connector that accepts copper, coaxial or fibre-optic contacts.

FCI, a developer of connectors and interconnect systems, has expanded its electronics product portfolio with the introduction of printed circuit board pluggable and fixed terminal blocks that are suitable for industrial and instrumentation applications.

"Terminal blocks have been around for many years, but they are still going strong. They are essential for many circuit board designs," said Koos Steding, FCI's global product manager. "Terminal blocks tie in nicely with FCI's other proven PCB connectors for board-to-board, wire/cable-to-board and rectangular I/O, which is why we decided to offer even more choice and service to our customers. Designers can now easily select FCI for most of their PCB interconnect needs."

C&K Components has developed new silicone rubber sealing boots for its 7000 Series miniature, 9000 Series power, and military-qualified toggle switches. The new silicone rubber boots are used to seal the toggle switches to protect against contaminants such as salt water, lubricants, cleaning solvents, dust, dirt and grease.

ITT Interconnect Solutions has launched a new Universal Contact for angular alignment applications which provides a vertical electrical connection between a device and a PCB. Additionally, it offers the advantage of allowing angular mating within the same footprint as a standard UC.  ITT Interconnect Solutions produced this new and innovative UC within a very tight timeframe of four weeks from design through to production, enabling their first end customer to produce 2.5 million handheld units within 60 days. 

Lorlin Electronics has introduced a waterproof version of its SRL series key operated miniature lock switches.

Manufactured at the Lorlin factory in the UK the new WRL waterproof model is BSI tested for sealing to IP66 and IP67 with both SRL and WRL switch types offering single or double pole electrical contacts. The SRL and WRL switches may be operated by a single common key or one of up to 200 different combinations. Applications for the waterproof Lorlin WRL miniature key lock switch include vehicles, vending machines, torches, medical equipment, lasers, security shutters, alarm and security control panels in airports, prisons, police stations etc, factory equipment, instrumentation and electrical control panels.

Aerco is now stocking the latest addition to the Binder push-pull family of connectors, the 420 series, extends the Binder push-pull family to a micro version.  This new connector gives greater flexibility to engineers and designers by creating more space while maintaining the same high standards of electrical integrity.

C&K Components has announced that it is now providing OEM customers with complete packaged switch solutions. For applications in the automotive, consumer electronics, medical, marine and other industries, C&K is supplying the complete module including the switch, fully-decorated face surface with painted and laser-etched buttons and company graphics, as well as wire harnessing.

ITT Interconnect Solutions has announced that it is extending its successful APD Aquatica range of connectors with a new design aimed to satisfy demand from the transportation and automotive industries.

As the demand for alternative energy sources grows, these industries are focussing resources on producing hybrid and electrical vehicles. Safe connectors suitable for use in high voltage and maximum power applications are necessary and ITT Interconnect Solutions has responded by developing the APD 1-way finger protective connector. This new connector ensures maximum user safety as well as providing sealing up to IP69k.

Harting has introduced low cost entry-level industrial Ethernet switch starter kits and patch cables. The Basic and Basic+ Ethernet kits and the new Cat 6 patch cables will be available at substantial discounts until March 2010.

The Basic Ethernet switch kit contains everything needed for a simple industrial Ethernet implementation, including a five-port unmanaged switch, ten “tool-less assembly” RJ45 connectors and 20 metres of Cat 5 Type B Ethernet cable. In addition, the Basic+ kit contains a 24VDC/1.4A power supply and a HARTING cable stripping tool.

Now available from Tyco Electronics is an IP65/67 field installable Industrial Ethernet RJ45 push-pull connector. Utilising the company’s “common core” design, the product can be applied in the field without the need for any tools. This significantly reduces installation time and costs. The fast termination technology is used in all field installable connector series’ of Tyco Electronics, including IP20, ODVA compliant, push-pull and HTS connectors.

Designed for use in harsh industrial environments, such as sealed automation units, decentralised applications, cabinet-outlets, manufacturing cells and lines in the automotive industry, as well as solar parks and wind parks, the IP65/67 field installable Industrial Ethernet RJ45 connector features a comfortable push-pull mechanism. This push-pull mechanism, together with the jack-side frame ensures a secure, sealed interconnection and enables the connector to withstand severe shocks and vibrations.

Aerco is now stocking the Hypertac M12 interconnect system, built using the unique Hypertac hyperboloid contact technology.

With Hypertac hyperboloid technology, the contact wires align themselves elastically as contact lines around the pin and this forms a high number of contact paths so providing unrivalled performance in terms of mating cycles, shock and vibration immunity, long life, low contact resistance and low insertion and extraction force. 

Gefen has announced its next generation of 4x1 KVM DVI DL Switchers. This new version supports the connection of one display using either single or dual link DVI, giving the user more flexibility while supporting resolutions up to 3840x2400.

Internal EDID management eliminates the need to reboot when switching between computers, and restores the original resolution settings and desktop icons for each computer. This provides a smooth transition throughout the switching with no additional tweaking.

In the broadcast and professional video industries, there is often a great need for signal extension solutions, particularly when filming is occurring live outside of the studio and control rooms, and there is a need to send information back to the video truck, edit suite or studio for editing.

Most recently, a large sports stadium in New York was sent a Gefen DVI-3000 HD unit for this purpose. It allows sports announcers to use a telestrater to clarify sports plays in the broadcast booth, sending edits using the USB keyboard/mouse and high resolution digital video signals in the DVI format with RS-232 control back to the video truck which is parked 2600 feet from the telestrater. The system uses a sender unit at the computer and a receiver unit at the display workstation connected by fiber optic cables that protect against any EMI (electromagnetic interference).

Tyco Electronics’ new real-time hybrid connectors with 8+4 power and signal contacts have been designed for machine automation applications that require a higher performance of up to 10A and a separate power supply. The Power4Net connectors combine connection technology with meeting the demanding durability and quality requirements of real-time Ethernet applications in industrial automation.

C&K Components has developed two new families of high-reliability rocker switches. Designated the AR3 and SR3 Series, the analog and switch rockers feature life cycles to two million and one million actuations, respectively.

“The AR3 and SR3 rocker switches were developed to provide the reliability required in demanding environmental conditions, including standard and custom armrest and dashboard controls, and multifunction grips in industrial and off-highway applications,” said Kyle Peterson, worldwide product manager for C&K Components.

Mill-Max has announced the development of several new SMT Spring-Loaded Connectors (SLCs).  All are offered as discrete contacts and many are available in tape and reel packaging.

New Mill-Max part family 0910-0 and 0910-1 through -4 are discrete SLCs specifically designed for production tape and reel assembly.

Molex Incorporated has introduced an innovative Circular Hybrid Technology (CHT) connector that combines Cat 5e data speed and power supply for high signal integrity and excellent performance. By combining both the power and data lines in one M12 connector, the CHT reduces both installation and cabling costs in process and automation control applications as well as in HVAC control systems, telecoms infrastructure and base stations.

TTI, Inc., the global distributor of passive, interconnect, relay & switch and discrete components, has announced several additions to its available range of switches from its Supplier Partner, Omron, including a new compact, sealed detection switch  featuring a self-cleaning slide contact, a new waterproof tactile switch and an extended range of DIP switches.

The new Omron D2QW detection switch features a sliding contact mechanism that can wipe foreign bodies and contamination such as silicone out of the switch area to ensure reliable operation. The sliding mechanism also offers silent operation.

FCI, a developer of connectors and interconnect systems, has developed a dedicated, micro-site for I/O (Input/Output) connector solutions. The micro-site provides customers with an easy to use, web-based interface with direct access to interactive product selectors. Based on a variety of selectable design criteria, these product selectors allow customers to identify the I/O connector that best suits their application.

Selector tables for each product category help users navigate through the broad I/O connector portfolio, while search functions help locate key product information such as product drawings and data-sheets, customer view models, and inventory availability.

Schneider Electric has launched the UK’s first totally standalone biometric switch dedicated to access control for industrial process or building applications; reducing the risks and costs linked with operational errors and increasing levels of security within a machine, process and working areas.

The Harmony Biometric switch has been designed to prevent unauthorised persons from accessing certain areas or controls that may cause them or the running process a danger.  Instead of a traditional key that can be lost and used by unauthorised staff, or passwords which are often forgotten, the Harmony Biometric switch can only be operated by a user with their thumb or finger print.

Molex Incorporated has launched the HyperJack PoE+ Power Source Equipment (PSE), Integrated Connector Module (ICM). Available in 2x4 and 2x6 configurations, the HyperJack modules feature a fully integrated design that reduces the engineering effort allowing for plug-and-play Power over Ethernet Plus (PoE+) without investing in development of PoE+ capability.

PoE is a technology that defines the transmission of both data and power to network devices over a standard Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power supplies.

Several ranges of Harting Ethernet switches have now received approval for use on board ships under the ship certification scheme administered by Det Norske Veritas (DNV): a leading independent worldwide authority of approvals and certifications in the maritime area.

The type approval is granted according to special guidelines that have been developed for international shipping, and covers areas such as temperature, air humidity and vibration characteristics as well as EMC properties. The subsequent product approval applies to areas such as machine rooms, decks and bridges.

ACAL Technology has extended its Fibre-optic cable assembly service and inventory with the introduction of new fibre-optic connectors from Amphenol and a broader range of fibre-optic connectors from Tyco Electronics. The new products allow ACAL additional flexibility to support customers throughout their fibre-optic design cycle, from consultancy during the initial concept and design, through to fibre-optic connector and cable assembly, product training and on-site termination.

Suitable for outside use and in 'wet' environments, Telergon enclosed changeover switches from specialist distributor Switchtec have been designed to combine safety and security in an aesthetically pleasing housing.

The switches are housed in weather resistant polycarbonate boxes that contribute to an excellent product environment rating of IP65. The most important application areas are those for switching between mains and generator sourced 240VAC supplies. Such switches are often mounted on walls in unheated industrial sheds, factory outbuildings and even on machines themselves, so resistance to water ingress is paramount.

ITT Interconnect Solutions has announced a new high-temperature electric power feedthru system for submersible pumps which is specifically designed for operation with conductor temperatures up to 450°F (230°C).  These severe operating environments place significant demands on individual components and stresses sealing elements of the system, so ITT has re-engineered the power feedthru, incorporating an innovative proprietary keying system and a new sealing system.

Amphenol Industrial Operations has introduced a new range of products for the solar energy segment including: crystalline silicon PV, thin-film PV, concentrated solar power or solar thermal power generation. New high-reliability products include: connectors, cable, cable assemblies, or junction boxes.

TTI, Inc., the global distributor of passive, interconnect, relay & switch and discrete components, has announced that it is stocking Tyco Electronics’ new Z-PACK Slim UHD (Ultra High Density) connector series for telecommunication, router, server or switch applications. Devices are available in a standard version for data transfer rates of up to 3.5Gbps and a high speed version that can master up to 20Gbps and above. Benefiting from a highly flexible design concept, the pin assignments of the components can be adjusted to future demands.

Cable company, Nexans, has developed a new specialised cable to provide a high-performance, reliable, easy to install and low environmental impact method of connection for a new generation of sensors that will provide an early warning system for areas of the world at risk of landslides.
 
The development programme has been carried out by Cabloswiss, a Nexans company based in Trezzano Rosa, near Milan, Italy, in collaboration with the Polytechnic of Milan as part of the PROMETEO (Public Protection: Methodologies and operational technologies) project.

A new family of shuttered duplex LC adapters has been added to Tyco Electronics’ line of LC connectors and adapters. This product is designed for the low profile, SC cut-out adapter and includes a slip-on retractable cover within the standard cut-out for enhanced eye protection.  It is suitable for high-powered applications and serves the data communication and telecommunication industries.

A new range of switches from Omron features a unique see-saw mechanism that offers a very positive operational feeling, combined with a quick electrical change-over with minimal risk of sparks and chattering.

Omron has released an A9T toggle switch, an A9P push-button switch and an A9S slide switch around the same innovative core mechanism.

TT electronics OPTEK Technology’s OPB732 Series is a long distance infrared reflective switch that is currently being used in a 6kW wind turbine for RPM sensing. The switch has been developed to provide design engineers, involved in the development of alternative energy, with a reliable and accurate sensor capable of measuring the speed of wind turbines.

ITT Interconnect Solutions has launched a new BIW field attachable Packer Feedthru System that will provide a faster method of passing power cables through packers. Consisting of a field attachable feedthru connector, a mating attachable cable connector, a cross-over adapter and related hardware, this new system allows the connector to be installed on the top side of a packer using a cross-over adapter, eliminating the need for splicing of downhole cables.

C&K Components has developed two new series of high reliability key switches. Designated the K6 and K12 Series, the key switches are offered in detect or single- or double-action tactile feedback versions, and feature excellent tactile feel for low-level switching applications.

“The key switches are offered with an extensive range of LED colours, travel and actuator force options, and also feature extended life cycles and sealing to IP67 requirements for use in harsh environments,” said Rodolphe Gie, product manager for C&K Components. “The versatility and high reliability of these products will allow us to meet our customers’ application-specific needs in the automotive, industrial and off-road markets.”

Molex Incorporated has introduced the OEM-proven MX123, a fully sealed, high-performance interconnect system optimised for transportation power-train applications. The MX123 system maintains low and stable contact resistance under severe temperatures and vibrations making it ideal for on-engine automotive applications, off-road construction and industrial equipment.

Aerco is stocking a new, high-power, low-loss, coaxial cable from Habia that is suitable for many defence applications including protection of armoured vehicles.

ITT Interconnect Solutions has announced its new CGL power input connector series, fully rated from 230 to 630V.

Harting is now offering full metal versions of its family of PushPull industrial connectors.

Molex has been accredited as a PROFINET Competence Centre (PICC) in France for a period of 2 years. The Molex PROFINET Competence Centre, which consists of employees of Molex and Testlab, has demonstrated the necessary competence and equipment to support PROFINET technology.

Unlike traditional distributors who stock finished products, assembling distributors such as PEI-Genesis hold large inventories of piece-parts and only assemble a product once the customer has placed an order. This approach is particularly well suited to multi-pin connectors, as they can be configured in an almost infinite number of ways depending on the customer's application.

Whereas some assembling distributors quote 7-10 days for their connector assembly service, PEI-Genesis has managed to reduce the cycle time - i.e. the time taken from the order arriving to the moment the finished products are despatched - to less than 48 hours, and in most cases considerably less.

ITT Interconnect Solutions has launched the BIW Feedthru for metal clad instrument cables which has been designed to provide a secure pressure barrier for single conductor instrument cables, even in the event of a downhole cable failure.

Molex Incorporated has made a new addition to its line of sealed circular connectors. XRC (Extra Rugged Circular) sealed plugs and receptacles are now available in an 18-shell/14-circuit size and 24-shell/31-circuit size.

Molex Incorporated has revealed the latest addition to the SMI (small media interconnect) family to include a low cost all-in-one connector field termination tool.

Honeywell’s new RPN Series of Hall-Effect rotary position sensors that has an operating range of up to 360° is now available in the UK from Aerco.

ITT Interconnect Solutions has announced a new 500VDC APD 4-way connector, an addition to its highly popular APD series used in engine, transmission, PC board and junction box applications.

ITT Interconnect Solutions is introducing new connector series specifically designed for sensor applications in harsh environments, such as engine compartments of heavy diesel units. New METR1X connectors can be placed directly on a diesel engine.

C&K Components has developed a new family of mil-qualified toggle switches. Qualified to MIL-S-83731 specifications, the toggle switches feature 50µ-inch selective gold contact plating and are rated for logic level to 5A resistive loads and 2A inductive loads.

Molex Incorporated has introduced the industry's first high-density lensed MT ferrule-based interconnect, designed to reduce optical loss resulting from dust contamination.

New from Aerco is a range of miniature, sealed, push-button switches from ITW. 

C&K Components has enhanced its KMT Series tactile switches with halogen-free materials. Measuring just 2.6mm x 3.0mm x 0.65mm, with a 0.45mm body height, the ultra-miniature tactile switch now provides customers with a means of meeting miniaturisation and ultra high reliability specifications, while also conforming to all environmental requirements.

FCI has enhanced the production process for the BergStik product range so that the right-angle and surface-mount units provide lower costs and shorter lead times to customers. Improved manufacturing processes have lowered production costs, resulting in lower end-product costs and shorter lead times. These new developments result in a more economical solution for a wide range of electronic applications.

A two-part PCB connector system from Lane Electronics has been designed to meet the latest UK and International standards, for use primarily in mil/ aerospace applications from fast jet to gun turret, where high resistance to vibration and extreme reliability are critical. Other applications would be high end engineering where constant exposure to vibration could be an issue that has caused other two-part connectors to fail.

Produced by ITW McMurdo, for whom Lane Electronics is a franchised assembling distributor, the 801 and 801CX Series utilises a 1.27mm (0.05in) staggered pitch with 2.54mm (0.1in) between rows and can be supplied on short lead times in a variety of contact configurations.

Aerco is now stocking new filter versions of the popular FCT ‘D' type connectors that are available in the same dimensions as the standard FCT non-filtered ‘D' types. These new connectors use chip-on-board technology rather than the more traditional tubular capacitors and provide a space saving, cost-effective solution to the growing need for filter connectors for use in today's increasingly complex electronic systems.

A new grounding connector from Tyco Electronics has shortened the installation time of a ground wire to a solar panel frame. The threaded connector inserts through a hole in the frame and uses two hex nuts to help provide a reliable connection. The connector handles 6 and 8 AWG (13.3 and 8.4 mm2) solid, uninsulated copper wire.

In connecting to the frame, the connector body and the one-piece lock washer nut penetrates the surface of the aluminium frame helping to create a reliable ground path.

Fujikura Europe is expanding its top-selling FAST Series Connector portfolio with the addition of two and three millimetre ST (Straight Tip) type versions.

The new ST type connectors will be suitable for multimode, LAN and CCTV applications and follow Fujikura's previously successful introduction of two and three millimetre connectors with SC and LC versions last year.

ITT Interconnect Solutions has introduced the PowerLock Box - a convenient and cost-effective method of connecting mobile generators to a low-voltage network (up to 1500VDC). The PowerLock Box provides a flexible, safe and secure solution for military applications where a mobile generator is being used to provide power in the field, or on bases for applications which require independence from the mains utility supply.

Harwin, has produced a video which demonstrates the automated crimp process it has developed for its Datamate Trio-Tek open barrel crimp contacts.

The new Datamate Trio-Tek auto-crimp contact is an innovative and patented design featuring a triangular form which simplifies crimping and enables customers to automate this part of the process for medium and high-volume applications - the first automated or semi-automated system for high-reliability contacts. Up until now, automating the crimping process has been difficult, but the new Datamate Trio-Tek open barrel crimp contact has a latching feature which simplifies the insertion of contacts into the housing and can be crimped automatically or semi-automatically four to five times faster than conventional manual crimping. As a result, higher volume throughput is achieved and costs are reduced.

knitter-switch has a new toggle switch designed specifically for use in those applications requiring ESD protection and resistance to moisture. As a result, the new MZME-ESD series will be suitable for engineers involved in designing products and systems for medical applications, home automation and industrial controls.

The UL-listed MZME-ESD series is ESD resistant to 8kV, rated to IP67 and offers a lifetime of 30,000 cycles. The switches feature gold-plated contacts for the reliable switching of even the smallest currents, although the switch is rated to 20VAC at 0.4VA.

Cambridge Connectors has unveiled a new addition to its range of true 75 ohm RF coaxial connectors. This DIN 1.0/2.3 right angle PCB mounted female coaxial connector has been engineered to operate in 3G-SDI broadcast environments where its 8 mm pitch profile makes it suitable in high density wiring applications such as video routing and switching equipment.

An alternative to BNC connectors traditionally used in the Broadcast Industry, this connector has the additional benefit of a latching style which provides securely locked connections. With a Reflection Factor VSWR performance of 1.22(Max) at DC to 1.5GHZ and 1.44(Max) between 1.5 and 3.0 GHz this connector comes with gold plating finish as standard and is RoHS compliant.

HARTING has expanded its range of DIN 41612 connectors with the addition of two versions which offer increased contact density for use with small printed circuit boards.

The new types 3B and 3C offer 20 or 30 contacts in a compact 2.54 mm grid. Each contact can be loaded with currents of up to 2 A, and the connectors are tested to the IEC 60 603-2 standard.

Honda Connectors has developed a fourth generation automotive RF & power connector. The Honda solution is to offer an alternative to FAKRA and deliver a more flexible and higher performing solution.

The design of this new connector will be significantly smaller than FAKRA and will offer a higher frequency.

HARTING has provided a connectivity solution for the world's first transformable 360º LED screen used on the latest concert tour for the world-renowned rock band U2.

The LED screen, developed by Barco, surrounds the band while they are performing, and can change shape in all directions during concerts. This revolutionary approach to video measures 24 x 16 metres, and incorporates more than 500,000 pixels, making it the biggest LED screen ever used in concert touring.

PEI-Genesis has introduced a new connector kit service that enables customers to obtain a multi-contact military connector with the accessories required to terminate it to a cable - all packaged in one bag, under a single part number.

By eliminating the need to place separate orders for individual items such as backshells, shrink boots, shielding, screen-trap devices and potting material, this new service will significantly speed up the purchasing process for customers.

C&K Components has developed a new family of tumbler switchlocks. Designated the Y Series, the anti-static 4, 5 and 6 tumbler switchlocks exceed 20KVDC static resistance and are available with 200, 750 and 2,000 key codes, respectively.

Quadrant has introduced a new range of sub-miniature, blind mate, push-on, 50ohm RF connectors into the UK market. The connector, from Telegärtner, is designed for cable assembly and PCB to PCB applications with a frequency requirement of up to 12GHz.

ITT Interconnect Solutions has designed a new QLC zero insertion force connector to meet the demanding environments frequently found in applications such as portable medical equipment, which need a combination of high reliability and functionality within ever-diminishing space.

ACW Technology, a leading UK-based contract electronics manufacturer (CEM), has announced the launch of a new special business services (SBS) group.

Molex has introduced the Mini-Fit H2O weatherproof, compact connection system designed for wire-to-wire applications of up to 9.0A per circuit. The Mini-Fit H2O connector system is IP67-rated, which ensures connector integrity when submersed in up to one metre of water.

Lane Electronics has unveiled a range of plastic bodied connectors designed to suit a variety of applications where space is at a premium. Manufactured by Weald Electronics, the SM/SMA Series are available with 1, 2 or 3 ways and rated at 3, 7 and 12A with a peak working voltage of 500V, DC or AC.

The plastic mouldings give the range high arc resistance and high dielectric and mechanical strength while the spring-tempered, phosphor bronze contacts are gold plated for low contact resistance, easy soldering and proof against corrosion.

Gefen has announced the availability of its improved version of the Extender for HDMI v1.3 over One CAT-6a cable.

This sender/receiver system delivers high definition video at 1080p full HD with up to 12 bit deep color support up to 175 feet (53m) in length using just one shielded CAT-6a cable. Resolutions at 1080i/60 can be extended even further up to 250 feet (76m). All HDMI v1.3 features are supported including lip sync audio, Dolby TrueHD and DTS Master Audio.

Deutsch has launched the RSC Illustris Expanded Beam connector. The RSC Illustris incorporates EBOSA (patent pending) technology from GigaCom, the Swedish based Fibre Optic component manufacturer and builds on the current Deutsch RSC physical contact connector. The RSC Illustris offers enhancements over existing expanded beam technology by using a precision aligned Expanded Beam optical Assembly (EBOSA) to make the optical interface less sensitive to dust to give a repeatable typical insertion loss of around 1.0 - 1.5dB for Single mode and 0.5 - 1.0dB for Multimode fibres.

Aerco has announced that it is now supplying the Glenair range of hermetically sealed D38999 connectors that are suitable for high pressure, low leakage applications as are required in equipment used in the aviation, naval and aerospace industries.

Aerco offers a two-week delivery with no minimum order quantities on the more common shell styles and contact layouts including jam nut, solder mount, wall mount and box mount versions. This availability is a considerable improvement over the industry average delivery time of eight weeks.

C&K Components, a supplier of tact switches, toggle, rocker and pushbutton switches, and smart card interconnect devices, has developed a Quad Navigation switch assembly. The four-way switch is available with backlit illumination and painted and laser etched buttons, and was designed specifically for GPS and communications applications, along with off-road vehicles, material handling equipment and instrumentation panels.

ZF Electronics (formerly Cherry Electrical Products) has announced that Access Electrical (Services) Ltd is now an official franchised distributor for its complete range of sensors and switch products.

Established in 1972 with offices in Bedfordshire and Devon, Access Electrical (Services) Ltd is a supplier of specialised industrial switches, sensors, safety products and other electrical components. The company is committed to a policy of in-depth stocking. The company's technical and commercial expertise has helped it to become the UK's largest distributor of certain industry-standard switch ranges. The company is ISO9001:2000 approved.

If you've always used 50 ohm connectors on 75 ohm cable with few if any problems then why should you change the habit of a lifetime? Well, for a start you might want to consider that mismatched BNC termination can seriously degrade the capabilities of high performance cable.

Sure, at lower frequencies (below 300MHz) little difference in electrical performance can be detected but with the expansion of digital transmission, and with ever increasing bit rates, future proofing transmission lines by eliminating mismatching becomes even more of a priority.

Molex has introduced the next generation HDMI Type D (Micro) connector, recently announced by the HDMI Licensing Committee, to meet the digital interface requirements of consumer electronic products.

 The HDMI Type D (Micro) connector is the industry's first miniaturised connector solution for delivering high definition video and images from mobile devices to flat panel screens. The connector, which meets all the electrical and mechanical specifications of the HDMI Specification 1.4, will provide significant benefits to the digital still camera and mobile device markets.

Honda Connectors have developed and are now supplying 34mm Express card kits and host connectors. The design is a simple construction to ease assembly and make it a flexible solution for custom application.

The card kit consists of two metal covers (top & bottom), 26 position receptacle & card frame. As there is no standard application for this technology the card frame is customer specific and for a small tooling charge we can produce a custom card frame that will interface with most customer devices.

The Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus has been an undisputed success since it was first introduced. Beginning as a 33MHz, 32-bit parallel bus providing slots to connect PC peripherals as expansion cards, PCI has evolved through later 64-bit generations including PCI-X to the latest serial PCI Express (PCIe) standard. Its evolution satisfies demands from the embedded space as well as traditional PC markets for high-performance I/O capable of supporting bandwidth-hungry applications such as high-definition graphics and streaming video.

High-speed computing and networking system designers have benefited from the advantages of cost-effective, high-speed backplane connector designs that utilise shield-less technology since 2003. This innovative technology was able to deliver high signal density while exhibiting low insertion loss and crosstalk, which in turn provided headroom to scale differential signals up to 12.5Gb/s without necessitating a redesign of the basic platform.

Amphenol has developed a new range of Ethernet switches adapted to the specific requirements of the aeronautic and military sectors. The Ethernet RJ-SWITCH MILAERO range combines the ruggedness and functional features of advanced networks.

Excelsys FCI has announced the HCI High Power backplane and midplane connector series for additional power at the interface between daughter cards and backplanes or midplanes in chassis-based platforms. These compact 2- and 3-position power modules utilise recently introduced HCI technology to enable increased linear power density along the daughter card edge.

ERNI Electronics has expanded its 1.27mm SMC connector family with new adapters. The company has now introduced SMC Board-to-Board adapters with 68 and 80 pins.

The Anybus X-gateway interconnects family from HMS Industrial Networks connects different networks and provides a link between field-busses or industrial Ethernet systems. The range is based on the company's Anybus communication modules that form an intelligent link between two industrial networks. The X-gateway family consists of 180 different versions and thus can interconnect all popular fieldbusses such as Profibus, DeviceNet and CANopen or connect these fieldbusses with the new Industrial Ethernet standards, Profinet, Ethernet/IP, Modbus-TCP and EtherCAT.

FCI has expanded the application range of its AirMax VS high-performance connector system with the addition of connectors that minimise impedance discontinuities and unacceptable signal loss when inserted in 85-ohm channels. The connectors' mating interfaces also satisfy demands for backwards compatibility to legacy 100-ohm product interfaces ensuring a smooth transition to next-generation designs.

The UTS In-Line connector has been designed to expand or repair links and assures a level of dynamic airtight sealing to IP68 or IP69K. It is suitable for applications such as robotics, off-road, road signage and railway signaling.

The UTS In-Line is a modular solution available in four sizes and 13 contact arrangements. It is available with crimp, solder or screw contacts. They are all intermatable. One connector with screw contacts can be coupled to a connector with solder or screw contacts - this is what makes it particularly relevant to line extension repairs. All combinations are possible: cable-to-cable with standard connector, wire-to-wire with grommet connector, or even wire-to-cable using both a standard connector and a grommet connector.

AVX Corporation has expanded its wire-to-board connector product offering to include board-to-board connectors specifically designed for the LED lighting industry.  The 9159 Series is a cost-effective connector solution that offers design flexibility by providing both card edge (one-piece) and plug and socket (two-piece) interconnect options.

The connectors feature a small footprint, making them ideal for applications where multiple printed circuit boards need to be plugged together, such as LED lighting strips. 

Murata has enhanced the operating frequency range and reduced the footprint of its tiny RF switch connectors to create the new SWG series, now suitable for UWB (ultra wide band) applications. The SWG series of connectors, at just 2.0 x 2.0 x 0.9mm, are designed to enable reliable testing of RF circuits throughout a product's development stage up to final production and save PCB space in portable/handheld consumer electronics applications.