Automotive Panel Market Thrives Despite Tariff Uncertainty
Barbara Jorgensen, Contributing Editor at Panel Builder US explores how U.S. tariffs have increased costs and demand for automotive control systems.
Barbara Jorgensen, Contributing Editor at Panel Builder US explores how U.S. tariffs have increased costs and demand for automotive control systems.
STRIDE PRO Unmanaged+ industrial Ethernet switches are a step up from basic unmanaged switches, adding efficient network optimization with IGMP snooping (traffic prioritization), port monitoring, port alarms, VLAN support, and more. IGMP snooping ends network flooding by transmitting data only to the specific devices requiring it. Port mirroring takes a view of your network and sends a copy of all the traffic from a selected port to a monitor port, which can be used for diagnostics.
S4B Safety Light Curtains are now available with additional length options for 14 mm resolution emitters and receivers. With the addition of 1350 mm, 1500 mm, 1650 mm, and 1800 mm models, the S4B supports reliable 14 mm finger detection and 30 mm hand detection across the full 300 mm to 1800 mm length range. Cascading functionality is now available on the S4B, simplifying installation by minimizing the wiring needed to connect light curtains to a controller.
EnerSys has recently announced the introduction of the DataSafe HX530T and DataSafe HX600T batteries, new additions to the DataSafe HX battery range designed for high-rate uninterruptible power supply (UPS) applications in data centers and other mission-critical environments. The DataSafe HX battery range has been trusted for more than a decade in backup power systems that require dependable performance and consistent high-rate capability.
Users have long appreciated Beckhoff’s EtherCAT Terminals for their excellent performance, modular scalability, and user-friendliness. The entire portfolio has received a technological upgrade with the ED series: modernized design, tool-free assembly, and app-based diagnostics make signal acquisition more efficient than ever. Existing series remain fully mechanically compatible: the user-friendly ED series sets a standard for the future.
The Schmersal PROTECT PSC1 safety controller is a compact safety control system with scalable I/O from a trusted provider of machine safety. E-stops, light grids, and almost any safety device can be monitored with ease, and the universal interface ensures instant connection to every standard fieldbus. The base models, PSC1-C-10 and PSC1-C-100, include 14 safe inputs up to PL e or SIL 3, 4 adjustable safe semiconductor outputs, 2 safe relay outputs, and 2 pulse outputs.
Pfannenberg, Inc. offers its PROTECT Series of SIL-certified and C1D2-capable signaling devices. With virtually unbreakable die-cast aluminum housings, PROTECT devices are suited for applications in fire alarm, marine, machine safety, functional safety, and hazardous areas where reliability and durability are critical. The PROTECT Series includes high-performance sounders and combined sounder-light devices with six lens color options and Xenon or LED visual signaling to meet a wide range of application requirements.
As a manufacturer of industrial sensors and connection technology, Pepperl+Fuchs continues to advance M12 connection technology to meet the specific needs of process automation. Especially in hazardous areas, uncompromising safety and dependable components are essential. With M12 connection technology in accordance with EN 61076, designed for intrinsically safe applications, Pepperl+Fuchs offers a solution that combines standard-compliant safety, mechanical durability, and simplified installation. For use in hazardous areas, Pepperl+Fuchs has further optimized M12 connection technology and obtained ATEX certification.
Penn-Union split bolt connectors deliver a secure, long‑lasting connection for two conductors in a wide range of power distribution applications. Aluminum, black pre-insulated power bars and in‑line splicers/reducers are engineered to handle two to four conductors in AL‑AL, AL‑CU, or CU‑CU configurations. And bronze service post connectors deliver outstanding conductivity thanks to their premium high‑copper wrought alloy construction.
METCASE’s MINIMET desktop/portable instrument enclosures are now available in custom sizes and a new color scheme. There is also a new catalog. These smart, compact aluminum enclosures are ideal for medical electronics, test and measurement, industrial control, peripherals, interfaces, switchboxes, communications and laboratory equipment. MINIMET has always been available in custom widths and depths – now it can be specified in bespoke heights.
OKW can now supply its SMART-CONTROL wall-mount enclosures with custom-designed metal holders for faster and easier installation. Wedge-shaped SMART-CONTROL fits internal corners but can also be used on flat walls or desktops. Applications include security and monitoring, environmental technology, IoT/IIoT, gateways, measurement and control, sensors, medical and laboratory technology.
The complete control, configuration, and data access IO-Link and Modbus provide is now available in the flush-mount S22 Programmable Indicator and Programmable Touch Button. Operators can use IO-Link or Modbus to configure intuitive feedback via five animations and a full spectrum of custom colors, speeds, and intensities. Using IO-Link or Modbus simplifies device replacement, reduces wiring, and gives users access to dynamic data that improves operational efficiency. The S22’s flush-mount design sits tightly against panel, machine, and bracket surfaces for a more ergonomic, cleaner design.
With the Not Connected Closed (NCC) family, binder offers a circular connector solution that reliably protects against dust, dirt and moisture even when unmated. The product range includes series 670 (subminiature) and 770 (miniature), including dedicated versions for medical applications. Users benefit from proven, robust connection technology that combines high levels of protection with ease of use.
Amphenol RF is pleased to introduce 2.92 mm connectors engineered to accommodate 0.141” conformable cable enabling stable, low loss high-frequency test and instrumentation usage. Broadband electrical performance up to 40 GHz provides support for millimeter-wave signal integrity in laboratory and production environments. A low VSWR ensures repeatable measurements, minimized signal reflections and guarantees dependability. 2.92 mm connectors support flexible cable routing and panel-mount system designs and are highly suited for 5G, aerospace and broadband communication applications.
Weidmuller USA has recently unveiled WM4 C PV Connectors for advanced solar applications. With robust and reliable crimp contacts that support up to 1500V, these UL-approved PV Connectors are compatible with residential, commercial and utility-scale photovoltaic systems. Designed with an anti-tampering locking mechanism, the WM4 C PV Connectors provide a durable solution for any PV connection.
From 448G lanes to liquid-cooled racks, Silicon Valley’s signal- and power-integrity show is turning into an AI infrastructure lab.