ESD November 2025

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November 2025 Volume 14, Issue 11

Securing the Internet of Things

NEWS

AUTOMOTIVE

POWER

WOMEN IN TECH

Waymo's autonomous service in London

Karen Mascarenhas talks diversity in marketing

Designing an efficient audio system

The role of high voltage power supplies

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CONTENTS.

Comment/ Introducing Automation News

News/ Waymo to launch autonomous service in London Women in Tech/ Can diversity in marketing be influenced by geopolitics? STEM Spotlight/ What engineers can learn from children’s fresh thinking

Connectors/ Driving manufacturing innovation with Harting’s modular connectors Automotive: Audio/ Designing an efficient automotive premium audio system

Obsolescence column/ Proactive risk mitigation in defence systems Sponsored/ Uninterruptible IPC solution for industrial automation

IoT: Security/ Securing the Internet of Things

T&M: Sensors/ Understanding shock and vibration in MEMS sensors Power: Supply/ The critical role of high voltage power supplies

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Power: Thermal/ The need for speed

Managing Editor: Paige Hookway paige.hookway@electronicspecifier.com Associate Sales Director: Ben Price ben.price@electronicspecifier.com Sales Associate: James Anstee james.anstee@electronicspecifier.com

Sales Associate: Louis Regnier louis.regnier@electronicspecifier.com Production Manager: Sherilee Holliday sherilee.holliday@electronicspecifier.com CEO: Steve Regnier steve.regnier@electronicspecifier.com

Head Office: Electronic Specifier Ltd Tythe Barn, Carriers Road, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3JU UK Tel: 01622 871944

Copyright 2025 Electronic Specifier. Contents of Electronic Specifier, its publication, websites and newsletters are the property of the publisher. The publisher and the sponsors of this magazine are not responsible for the results of any actions or omissions taken on the basis of information in this publication. In particular, no liability can be accepted in result of any claim based on or in relation to material provided for inclusion. Electronic Specifier is a controlled circulation journal.

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Introducing Automation News

I ’m very excited to announce the launch of Automation News, our newest online platform dedicated to the global industrial automation community. Automation News has been created to serve professionals across manufacturing, engineering, robotics, and process industries – providing daily updates, expert analysis, and in-depth features that explore the technologies shaping the future of automation. As automation continues to transform how industries operate, innovate, and compete, the need for reliable, intelligent reporting has never been greater. Our goal is to make Automation News the trusted destination for professionals who want to stay informed, anticipate change, and make confident decisions. We are delighted to welcome Lucy Barnard as Editor. Lucy brings over 20 years of experience in journalism and trade publishing, having led editorial teams across both national and international titles. Her knowledge of global industry trends and her commitment to quality content make her the ideal person to guide Automation News ’ editorial strategy. “Industrial automation is evolving faster than ever, and access to accurate, timely information about it has never been more critical,” said Barnard. “ Automation News will provide the insights and analysis professionals need to understand emerging technologies, navigate change, and make informed decisions for their businesses.”

and features spanning robotics, Industry 4.0, Industrial IoT, control systems, and emerging automation technologies • An authoritative voice – built on our decades of publishing experience and supported by a network of respected industry experts • Global reach – designed to serve decision-makers across Europe and worldwide • Value for advertisers – connecting technology providers with a highly engaged, relevant audience “Automation is transforming industries at unprecedented speed, and professionals need a trusted source of information to stay ahead,” said Steve Regnier, CEO of STAR Media Services Ltd. “With Automation News , we bring together our proven expertise in B2B digital publishing with a deep understanding of the automation sector to create a platform that delivers value for readers and advertisers alike.” Founded in 1997 by Steve Regnier and Tim Anstee, STAR Media Services draws on their combined years of expertise in B2B media and events, delivering innovative solutions for industry leaders worldwide. We invite you to explore the platform, share your insights, and be part of this exciting new chapter in automation media.

Visit: https://automationnews.com

The platform will deliver:

Paige Hookway, Managing Editor

• Comprehensive coverage – daily news, analysis,

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WOMEN INNTEEWCSH

Waymo to launch autonomous service in London

London’s streets could soon host a new chapter in transport innovation, as Waymo confirmed plans to introduce its fully autonomous ride- hailing service to the UK capital in 2026. The announcement marks the company’s first major expansion beyond the United States and Japan, signalling a significant step forward for the adoption

of driverless vehicle technology in Europe.

The service, operated through the Waymo app, will allow Londoners to book rides in vehicles with no human behind the wheel. The company said it aims to complement the city’s established transport systems by offering an additional safe and accessible mobility option.

Breakthrough in LEO satellite IoT connectivity

Nordic Semiconductor announces a significant milestone for NTN satellite communication: a successful chip-to-Cloud communication using Nordic’s

nRF9151 low power cellular IoT module via Sateliot’s LEO satellites to Nordic’s nRF Cloud – the company’s integrated platform for device management, embedded observability, and location services. Sateliot is the first company demonstrating a Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) 5G IoT satellite constellation acting as a cell tower in space with a seamless Direct-to-Device extension of terrestrial cellular networks.

The successful connection marks a pivotal advance in LEO satellite communications by promising an extension of the IoT to the most remote areas of the planet. It also verifies the robust capabilities and potential of Nordic’s low power cellular IoT technology in key real-world applications in industries like smart agriculture, asset tracking, and smart metering.

Smart eye collaborates with Sony on interior sensor

Smart Eye announced a collaboration with Sony Semiconductor Solutions

Sensing and Iris Authentication, the collaboration helps OEMs address evolving global safety requirements, while also delivering secure access to personalised features, digital services, and in-car payments. Sony’s new IMX775 image sensor features a resolution of five effective megapixels, combining RGB and infrared imaging on a single chip. With high sensitivity at 940nm near-

infrared (NIR) wavelengths and a wide dynamic range of 110dB in RGB, the sensor delivers high-quality imaging under all light conditions.

Corporation (Sony) to integrate Smart Eye’s interior sensing and biometric authentication software with Sony’s newly released IMX775 RGB-IR image sensor. By combining Sony’s high- performance imaging technology with Smart Eye’s AI-based Interior

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NEWS

Anritsu supports market expansion of 5G wireless devices

Anritsu Corporation has enhanced the functions of its New Radio RF Conformance Test System ME7873NR to support 5G wireless device conformance tests and compliance with the ETSI*1 EN 301 908-25 standard under the European Radio Equipment Directive (RED). By using these enhanced functions, manufacturers can ensure regulatory compliance for 5G wireless devices sold in the EU and guarantee product quality and reliability. Anritsu is

dedicated to supporting smooth market entry for products into the EU. RED is an EU legal framework defining the safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), radio-spectrum efficiency, and cybersecurity requirements of wireless devices in the EU. With the spread of wireless technologies, such as 5G, the ETSI EN 301 908-25 standard for 5G NR devices has been established based on 3GPP Release 15 regulating 5G specifications, and wireless products now sold in the

EU must comply with this standard.

Through this latest enhancement, Anritsu continues to play a key role in deployment of commercial 5G services, helping create a 5G-empowered society.

Munro EV secures £2M funding

Munro EV, the Glasgow-based electric 4X4 manufacturer, announces it has secured £2 million in fresh funding from existing investor Elbow Beach alongside other parties. The investment will accelerate production of Munro’s M-Series vehicles, specifically designed for the demanding requirements of mining, defence, and construction industries.

industries face increasing pressure to decarbonise operations, with mining alone responsible for 4-7% of all global emissions. While passenger vehicle electrification has advanced rapidly, commercial all-terrain vehicles have remained largely diesel-dependent despite their intensive usage patterns and substantial carbon footprint. Munro’s M-Series offers an all-new vehicle to this underserved market, delivering the rugged performance

these critical industries require while eliminating operational emissions. The vehicles demonstrate exceptional capability with a 1,000kg payload capacity and over 170 real world miles of range per charge, making them ideal for the demanding operational environments of mining sites, military applications, and construction projects.

The funding comes as global

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WOMEN INI TECH

Can diversity in marketing be influenced by geopolitics?

H ere, she reflects on how these early experiences and global events have shaped her work in technical public relations, and how diversity in marketing and life continues to evolve alongside geopolitical shifts. Could you share a bit about where you grew up? Did that affect who you became? Halcyon childhood days playing under African skies, convent schooling in Goa, and the traumatic exodus of Asians from Uganda culminated in teenage years living in Sidcup, Kent. This forged in me a great curiosity about life. This thirst for knowledge has never left me. I had childhood freedom in Uganda – playing outdoors, climbing trees, etc. I enjoyed school and had a keen interest in mathematics and poetry, but also art and music. My love of reading started with Aunty Maggie and Uncle Peter. She gave me my first books, whilst he allowed me access to monthly science and knowledge publications. When you began working in sectors like defence and electronics, did you find yourself facing any particular challenges as a woman in male-dominated environments? How did you navigate those situations?

Karen Mascarenhas, BSc (Hons), MSc, Founder and Director of Mascarenhas PR LTD, has lived a global life. Her journey crosses continents – from a childhood in Uganda, to schooling in India, through to adult life in South East London. These experiences, deeply influenced by both people and politics, have sculpted her outlook on marketing, communications, and diversity.

Learning

I made two key decisions – to read and ask questions. ‘A’ level chemistry, biology, and mathematics offered technical basics whilst the transitional process – from complex medical terminology to electronic concepts – was swift. Females were expected to be intelligent but not given top positions. Finally, a female editor was appointed, and now they florish in electronics publishing.

Karen Mascarenhas, on her 3rd birthday by the shores of Lake Victoria in Uganda.

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WOMEN IN TECH

Determination

Grandparents – Peter Vincent and Maria Generosa Mascarenhas on their wedding day

Physical stamina was vital, long hours – driving up to 30,000 miles per annum for UK-wide meetings and in the office, writing for all STC marketing including its entire manufacturing and distribution network. In 1991, STC was sold and its distribution acquired by Farnell. I resigned my agency Directorship, gained in my mid-twenties, assessed PR offers, but set up my own agency. Can you tell me a little bit about Mascarenhas PR and the specialisms it covers?

Responsibility

My company needed a name. Mascarenhas PR LTD – after my grandfather, Peter Mascarenhas – a quiet, gentle, and affectionate man of principle, who was taken by the British to Tanzania to work and only allowed home to Goa once every four years to visit his family. Weidmuller secured my future. Exciting work included writing their articles about the Channel Tunnel boring machine for Eurostar tunnels and new Emergency Shut Down systems for oil platforms. FCI, a multi-billion pound interconnection company, was gained and retained for 12 years.

My company needed a name. Mascarenhas PR – after my grandfather, Peter Mascarenhas – a quiet, gentle, and affectionate man of principle, who was taken by the British to Tanzania to work and only allowed home to Goa once every four years to visit his family.

Flexibility

Mascarenhas PR LTD secured Signature Industries with four divisions – relays and switches, traffic display signage, fire alarms, and SARBE Search and Rescue beacons. Good press coverage was gained for SARBE in Jane’s Defence publications against multi-billion dollar companies like Boeing and General Dynamics. Focusing on the Paris and Farnborough Air Shows, a huge contract was secured with the Indian Air Force. In Paris, we were guests of the British ambassador.

the Fire Division enabled a large fire alarms contract at the Russian Sakalin Oil facility. Other clients included Swiss-owned LEMO, Whitstable-based US-owned Amphenol, and for 14 years, Hypertac – which my agency helped to rebrand to Smiths Connectors and Smiths Interconnect.

Coverage in the Middle East and the US for

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WOMEN INI TECH

Mascarenhas PR LTD’s website highlights diversity and inclusion. Associates are of wide ethnic backgrounds with diversity of age and gender, yet are excellent within their specialities. Changes in gender diversity were noticeable in Europe – the President of FCI in Paris was a woman, and later, Smiths Interconnect selected a woman President, Karen Bomba, who remains a friend.

Why are you passionate about what you do?

Through my work, I learn more all the time, and this highlights global injustice. Child slavery within conflict minerals. Some G7 and G12 nations massively exploit developing countries. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) exports tantalum vital for mobiles and laptops, so why is mineral-rich DRC desperately poor? My first conflict minerals article was published in the 100-year anniversary issue of Electronics World in 2013 . I continue to write and campaign. President Obama instigated the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform Act in 2010 requiring firms like Apple, Google, HP, Intel, etc., to confirm purchase of vast quantities of

Setting off on the Orient Express with editors for a Weidmuller press conference at Arundel Castle

Integrity

A true credit to Mascarenhas PR LTD was that these clients competed against one another but were run, at times, concurrently by me – highlighting the integrity assigned to my agency. Over the span of your career, have you noticed any shifts in diversity – especially gender diversity – within the technical teams or clients you’ve worked with?

MASCARENHAS PR LTD - celebrating at the Grosvenor Hotel with long standing clients FCI and Itron (UK) Ltd.

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Built by the companies you know and trust.

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FACTORY AUTHORISED Best defense against counterfeit components Proper packaging and handling Fully warrantied and supported by the manufacturer

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WOMEN INI TECH

cheap conflict minerals like tantalum from rebels who use slave children to extract the ore from makeshift mines. Many children die. The illegal trade has reduced but not eliminated, leaving the still DRC pover- ty-stricken. The US announced a peace deal between Rwanda and the DRC in June 2025 but insists on ownership of lucrative mineral rights – so the 18th-century “Scramble for Africa” continues. Electronics must ensure Fair Trade – like Food & Drink. Writing about gifted people is a delight – my Raspberry Pi interview with CCO Mike Buffham highlighted projects in Ghana and Kenya; award winner Debbie McDade of A.R.T. took over her father’s business, and the UK head of Thales, Vibishna Balagopal, inspires many. What have you learned from being in this field that people should know, especially women? Do not give up, be flexible, tolerant, and value friendships. Stand your ground, yet try to view the other’s perspective to avoid conflict. Trust is vital for all – especially for women. It’s an intrinsic part of my work life and personal life. What are the three most helpful books you would recommend to our readers,

especially women, trying to navigate a path in the industry? To Kill a Mockingbird – timeless heroes and heroines – with people from different races and genders, represented. A Suitable Boy – a masterpiece about a young woman set in post-independence India. A Long Walk to Freedom – Nelson Mandela’s iconic story about diversity, geopolitics and marketing - reconciliation. Please watch the funeral of President Carter – a man for all seasons – from peanut businessman to the top job in the US, with dignity and integrity – a lesson for technical PR but also, life. Heartfelt thanks to my grandfather and grandmothers, relatives, and great many friends, but most of all, I thank my best friend, my son, James Mascarenhas.

By Sheryl Miles, Associate Editor, and Karen Mascarenhas, Mascarenhas PR LTD

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CONNECT TECHNOLOGY WITH CONFIDENCE

WWW.HARWIN.COM

Harwin’s connector products are proven to perform in extreme conditions,with shock, vibration and temperature range rigorously tested.

WITH OUR QUALITY, SERVICE, SUPPORT, AND HIGHLY RELIABLE PRODUCTS, YOU CAN DEPEND ON HARWIN.

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What engineers can learn from children’s fresh thinking

When Rebecca, a pupil from Kelvinside Academy in Scotland, was asked what she would do if she were an engineer, she decided that she wanted to help people sleeping rough to stay warm. Her idea – a solar-powered heated blanket – has since been recognised by Time Magazine, which named her ‘Girl of the Year’, and by The Primary Engineer MacRobert Medal, where she took home both a Silver Medal and a first-of-its-kind Commendation Medal voted for by the public, showing that real solutions to real-world problems can come from the youngest minds.

By Sheryl Miles, Associate Editor

Seeing problems differently According to Shelter Scotland, a household becomes homeless every fifteen minutes. Between 2024 and 2025 alone more than 40,000 applications for homelessness assistance were recorded, with over 31,000 open cases by March 2025. These statistics often stem from complex logistics. But to Rebecca, who noticed a homelessness problem in her community, the crisis led her to wonder: what can I do to help keep

people a little warmer at night?

Her heated blanket idea, part of her entry into The Primary Engineer Leaders Award – an annual UK-wide competition inviting children aged from three to 19 to identify a problem in their community and propose a creative engineering solution – is designed to give warmth to people without access to power after The Primary Engineer Competition posed the question

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STEM SPOTLIGHT

to pupils: ‘If you were an engineer, what would you do?’ At its heart, the competition encourages children to look at the world around them, identify what could be improved, and think like engineers. Each participant is guided through interviewing professional engineers, visualising their ideas with annotated drawings, and writing a formal letter to professional engineers on the judging panel explaining their solution. For Rebecca, that process began with observation. She recognised the problem of cold nights for people without shelter and started exploring how to deliver heat without relying on conventional power sources. Her thinking led her to sketch the idea of a heated blanket using flexible solar panels as a heat source. From idea to innovation Rebecca’s design caught the attention of

Thales UK, which selected six pupil ideas from across the country to prototype at its engineering sites. Over the following year, her concept evolved from a drawing into a working product, shaped by collaboration between Thales engineers and guided by Rebecca’s own feedback.

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STEM SPOTLIGHT

curiosity of children in that they will approach engineering like natural system thinkers – they are curious about how things connect, yet they don’t carry the same burden of bureaucracy or complex thinking that can come from industry. While adults might approach homelessness as a social policy challenge or a logistics problem, Rebecca’s response was human and immediate: people are cold; they need warmth. From there, she worked backwards to design a technical solution. It’s this clarity of purpose, rooted in empathy, that often distinguishes young inventors. By encouraging children to apply creativity to real-world issues, The Primary Engineer has helped to create an engineering culture that values social impact as much as technical skill. And this is something engineers at any stage of their careers can take from it. In an industry that is constantly shaped by efficiency, cost reduction, and risk mitigation, the ability to reimagine a problem from first principles is a valuable skill. Engineering a better future In June 2025, Thales announced that it would produce and donate 150 of Rebecca’s solar-powered blankets to six homeless charities across the Glasgow region. The first 35 have already gone to Homeless Project Scotland, supporting 31 temporary accommodation beds. For Rebecca, it’s a remarkable achievement. But for the wider engineering community, it’s also a case study in how the profession can nurture fresh thinking. For the engineers who helped her bring it to life – and for those inspired by her story – it just goes to show that sometimes, the most original engineering thinking starts long before the job title ‘engineer’ is ever earned. And that engineering is so much more than wearing a hardhat.

The resulting design was practical and thoughtful. The blanket evolved to become a sleeping bag that is lightweight and foldable which allows it to be folded into a backpack for easy transport. It is powered by a compact solar panel and battery pack, each roughly the size of a smartphone. The design includes adjustable heat settings, and it prioritises user safety – a critical consideration for any device in direct contact with the body. Thales’ prototype team began by breaking down the system into three core components – the heated blanket/sleeping bag, the solar panels, and the battery pack – and based their calculations on an average eight-hour sleep cycle. They then developed a control circuit capable of automatically switching between on and off states, based on temperature readings, to conserve power and extend the battery’s life. The team also created a custom outer frame using CAD software, which holds the solar panels securely while doubling as additional storage space. Once assembled, every element was tested for durability, performance, and safety – from breadboard trials of the control circuitry to full system-level tests of the completed prototype. The power of a young person’s perspective Rebecca’s success reflects the innate

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YOUR DEFENCE AGAINST COMPONENT OBSOLESCENCE.

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CONNECTORS

Manufacturing engineers can appreciate the frustration of a production line being halted because one motor controller fails, yet accessing it requires dismantling dozens of wire connections. What should take minutes stretches into hours while technicians trace circuits through cable bundles, hoping they can pinpoint the correct wires among hundreds of similar-looking conductors. This scenario highlights a challenge with electrical connectivity in industrial environments. Hardwired systems, while initially appearing cost-effective, can create hidden inefficiencies that compound over equipment lifecycles, and the problem lies in the rigid nature of the hardwired connections. Fortunately, we now have modular connector solutions that can adapt to changing requirements while maintaining industrial-grade reliability. Driving manufacturing innovation with Harting’s modular connectors

By Eric Halvorson, Senior Marketing Technology Manager – Automation & Control, DigiKey

Automotive assembly line. Image credit: Adobe Stock

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CONNECTORS

Origins of standardised industrial connection technology

applications, signal modules to support low-voltage control circuits, as well as communication modules for Ethernet, fieldbus, or fibre optic connections. Engineers can combine these different module types within the same assembly framework, eliminating the need for separate connectors for each media. Protective housings provide mechanical support and environmental sealing for module combinations, with standardised enclosures ranging from compact Han 6B configurations to Han 48B suitable for and heavy-duty/multi-media requirements. Environmental protection utilises graduated sealing constructions based on application severity. Basic IP65 ratings protect against dust infiltration and water ingress, which is common in most manufacturing facilities. On the other hand, the enhanced IP69K specifications for Han-Modular connectors to withstand high-pressure washdown procedures required in food processing and pharmaceutical production. Han-Modular connectors incorporate multiple security features that eliminate connection errors. The mechanical keying system utilises uniquely shaped guide elements that allow only properly matched male and female connector halves to connect together. This physical design prevents technicians from connecting incompatible connectors, a wiring mistake that frequently occurs in hardwired The Han Connector Series, launched before the 1960s industrial boom, demonstrated how standardised, robust connections could handle multiple types of media while withstanding harsh factory environments.

Wilhelm Harting’s vision in 1945 recognised that post-war industrial growth required connection solutions fundamentally different from existing designs. Starting with a small repair operation in Minden, Germany, Harting developed what became known as Heavy Duty Connectors (HDCs), establishing principles that continue to influence industrial connectivity design today. The breakthrough came from creating rectangular connectors in contrast to the circular designs that initially dominated military and aerospace applications. Rectangular architectures provided superior space utilisation in industrial control panels and achieved higher contact density within standardised footprints. The Han Connector Series, launched before the 1960s industrial boom, demonstrated how standardised, robust connections could handle multiple types of media while withstanding harsh factory environments. This historical foundation matters because Han-Modular technology builds directly upon proven principles. Rather than reinventing basic concepts, it merges time-tested designs with the latest materials, manufacturing techniques, and integration capabilities. Deconstructing modular connection system design Han-Modular technology from Harting employs a building-block approach where engineers can select individual modules based on specific media (power, signal, data, air, etc.,) requirements and combine these elements within protective housings designed for particular environments. Han-Modular modules handle specific media types within the connector assembly, e.g., power modules to accommodate currents from 16 to 200A for heavy-duty

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CONNECTORS

connections. Rather than relying on wiring labels or circuit diagrams that can become unclear over time, the keying system makes incorrect connections physically impossible.

Han-Modular Connector System. Image credit: DigiKey

Harting’s partnership with DigiKey: the Han Configurator

Connector specifications create challenges in engineering workflows. Engineers must manually cross-reference component specs across multiple datasheets, verify environmental ratings, and validate the compatibility requirements for each connector type. This is a time-intensive process that introduces selection errors while impacting project timelines. DigiKey’s collaboration with Harting addresses these problems with integrated design tools that automate validation and component selection. The Han Configurator allows engineers to input system requirements, e.g., media types, current ratings, and environmental specifications and receive real-time feedback on component compatibility and availability. The configurator utilises a rule-based selection logic that prevents incompatible combinations and suggests alternatives when their choices create conflicts. It also displays configured assemblies from multiple angles, allowing engineers to verify mechanical fit and cable routing requirements before purchasing. The Han Configurator also generates complete documentation like bills of materials with current pricing and availability status. Direct integration with DigiKey’s procurement systems can help to eliminate manual parts list creation and ordering. Engineers can use the post comparison tools to evaluate modular vs hardwiring alternatives or pre-configured libraries as starting points for common applications across multiple industries.

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CONNECTORS

Practical benefits for manufacturing teams

Harting’s Han-Modular connectors deliver measurable installation time improvements compared to hardwiring methods. Pre-assembled connector sets eliminate the time-consuming process of individual wire termination in the field, and mechanical keying systems avoid connection errors that often plague wiring installations. The standardised housing designs, ranging from compact Han 6B configurations through Han 48B assemblies for complex applications, enable consistent installation across various system requirements. The modular design simplifies maintenance procedures by replacing complicated circuit tracing and rewiring operations with simple connector disconnection/reconnections. When components require replacement or technicians need to troubleshoot, they can identify and isolate problems easily. The lever-actuated locking mechanism also allows maintenance workers to perform the operations quickly without using specialised equipment. Another key benefit is having the ability to test complete connector assemblies under controlled conditions. Doing this eliminates any variables that create reliability issues with field-terminated connections. Manufacturing facilities can control conductor preparation quality,

Han 48B Bulkhead mounted housing. Image credit: Harting

contact insertion force, and sealing integrity in ways that are not possible during field installation. Environmental testing also ensures that assemblies meet their specified IP65 or IP69K ratings before delivery. All in all, modifications are much simpler with the modular design. The standard interfaces allow engineers to upgrade power handling capabilities, add more communication channels, or even integrate new components by swapping out individual modules. Validation across critical manufacturing sectors Automotive assembly lines are some of

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CONNECTORS

specifications, Han-Modular connectors help maintain sealed protection and electrical continuity under conditions that rapidly degrade conventional connectivity solutions. Chemical facilities are probably the most challenging validation environments where connectors must resist chemical exposure with explosion-proof requirements. Han-Modular design enables assembly testing under controlled laboratory conditions before deployment to hazardous areas to prevent failures that could extend beyond production disruption to safety concerns. Conclusion Modular connectivity fundamentally changed how engineers approach system design. Rather than optimising individual components, it focuses on designing robust connectivity infrastructure that supports both requirements and future technological innovation. For engineers optimising for longer-term system performance, modular connectivity delivers the adaptability essential for technological change management and maintains high operational reliability for a wide range of industrial applications. Engineering decisions should evaluate connectivity as infrastructure that can either enable or constrain future system modifications.

the most demanding applications for connectivity. For example, robotic welding cells require simultaneous transmission of high-current welding power (typically exceeding 600A), servo control signals for robot positioning, and high-speed Ethernet communication for real-time motion coordination. This means connection failures can halt entire production lines, making reliability essential. Han-Modular connectors are designed to withstand continuous mechanical stress from robotic motion, maintaining electrical integrity and long-term reliability under extreme ambient conditions. Similarly, remote generator installations must operate reliably in temperature extremes ranging from Arctic conditions through desert environments, often with minimal maintenance access for extended periods. These applications require connectors to simultaneously handle high-current primary power distribution and sensitive control circuits within single assemblies. Han-Modular connectors in generator facilities remain operational for years without maintenance intervention, validating the design approach under the most challenging conditions. Mining and construction equipment also operate in aggressive environments with extreme dust exposure, hydraulic fluid contamination, and heavy mechanical impact. While they exceed most industrial Similarly, remote generator installations must operate reliably in temperature extremes ranging from Arctic conditions through desert environments, often with minimal maintenance access for extended periods.

Han 6B Bulkhead mounted housing. Image credit: Harting.

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Designing an efficient automotive premium audio system with highly integrated processors Automotive audio has evolved from entertainment-only purposes to being an integral part of the driving experience in an effort to enhance driver comfort and safety. Audio features such as active noise cancellation (ANC), immersive surround sound, and personalised audio zones – traditionally limited to high-end vehicle models – are now making their way into entry-level models.

Technical article by Texas Instruments

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T o keep pace with this trend while making vehicles more efficient and easier to manufacture, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and audio system designers are looking for higher levels of integration in the embedded processors used in automotive amplifiers. These processors need to meet system audio processing demands and OEM security and functional safety requirements. Audio system designers also want these systems to be scalable, simplifying redesign across OEMs and vehicle trim models. In this article, we’ll explore the evolution of embedded devices such as the TI AM62D-Q1 processor and AM2754-Q1 microcontroller (MCU), as well as the most important design considerations when using these devices with other advanced semiconductors to develop digital amplifiers in modern vehicles.

The evolution of automotive audio processors and supporting components Audio continues to be a differentiating factor between OEMs. In fact, most OEMs provide packages that add on to or replace stock sound systems such as premium-branded sound systems, branded immersive surround- sound capabilities, extra mid-range speakers, and subwoofers. If you’ve shopped for a car recently, you’re probably familiar with the range of audio options in currently available models. Traditionally, digital amplifiers in premium automotive audio systems were designed with a distributed architecture for audio processing, with separate MCUs, digital signal processors (DSPs) and networking integrated circuits (ICs) handling different tasks. While this discrete approach often provided design flexibility, it also increased system complexity, cost, and size. The addition of immersive surround sound and road-noise cancellation (RNC) for a home-theatre like experience – while also optimising fuel and energy efficiency at the same time – requires an increase in the number of components, audio channels and types of software. Figure 1 shows an example of an audio system in a modern vehicle with multiple speakers for surround sound, as well as microphones for RNC.

Higher levels of device integration in embedded processors are helping

streamline the design of audio systems. For example, highly integrated automotive SoCs in AM62D-Q1 processors and AM275x-Q1 MCUs feature TI’s C7x DSP cores, memory, and components designed to help you achieve external

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AUTOMOTIVE: AUDIO

integrated circuits (PMICs) such as the TPS65224-Q1 – completing the audio signal chain in modern vehicles. Figure 2 shows a block diagram of a premium audio system with TI embedded processors, analog, and power ICs. Similar to advancements in automotive audio processors, higher levels of integration in PMICs like the TPS65224-Q1 are helping designers create scalable, compact, and reliable automotive audio systems that meet OEM and – ultimately – consumer expectations by fully leveraging their system’s processors and helping reduce overall BOM cost and size at system level. These devices also feature integrated functional safety features to achieve ASIL-B at system level. Conclusion Highly integrated audio processors with DSP capabilities are enabling a new generation of premium automotive audio systems, with immersive sound, ANC, and personalised audio features. However, realising the full potential of these processors requires an optimised embedded software architecture and development process. By considering factors such as DSP software architectures, audio frameworks, tuning tools, and software reuse, automotive system engineers can unlock the capabilities of advanced audio silicon while managing the complexity of in-vehicle system integration. As the demand for premium audio continues to grow, a focus on both hardware and software innovation will be the primary factor to staying competitive in the automotive market.

Figure 1. Diagram of modern audio system with speakers for surround sound and microphones for RNC

functional safety, security requirements, and audio networking requirements all in a single device. A single-chip processing platform also simplifies scalability from a hardware and software perspective, since these MCU and processor families include pin-to-pin compatible options, and enables code reuse across designs. From a vehicle safety perspective, these devices help increase audio performance outside of the car by simplifying the design of sound synthesis systems such as engine sound synthesis or acoustic vehicle alerting systems in battery electric vehicles. These systems enhance vehicle safety by emitting sounds from external speakers that pedestrians outside the vehicle can hear, as well as emitting sounds that replicate engine noise inside the vehicle. Each C7x DSP core also includes a single-cycle L2 memory cache (accessible up to 2.25MB) for up to four times higher processing performance than traditional scalar-based audio DSPs and is paired with a matrix multiply accelerator to form an on-chip neural processing unit

Figure 2. End-equipment block diagram of a fully featured premium audio system

(NPU). This architecture can process both traditional and Edge AI-based audio algorithms, enabling single-chip support for multiple premium audio features. These advanced audio features also help maintain compatibility with performance audio amplifiers such as the TAS6754-Q1 with one inductor (1L) modulation technology, analog-to-digi- tal converters, and power-management

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STEM SPOTLIGHT OBSOLESCENCE COLUMN

Mitigating tomorrow’s obsolescence today

In the aerospace and defence sectors, the operational life of platforms and systems is measured in decades. From fighter jets to satellite communication systems, these assets are designed for longevity and reliability in theatre. However, the electronic components that form their very core operate on a much faster, often unforgiving, lifecycle. This fundamental mismatch creates a continuous and ever- changing challenge … component obsolescence. We’ve witnessed firsthand, through customer collaboration, the disruptive impact of obsolescence. A critical semiconductor that suddenly becomes unavailable can halt an entire production line, delay a crucial programme, or trigger a costly and time-consuming redesign. These are not mere supply chain hiccups; they are significant threats to operational

readiness and, consequently, national security. I believe that the lessons learned from these EOL encounters are clear and that a reactive approach is no longer sufficient. As we often say to our partners, you can’t make obsolescence obsolete, but with the right partners, you can be best prepared. Yes, the landscape is challenging. Semiconductor manufacturers are driven by the rapid pace of technological advancement, leading to shorter product lifecycles. This commercial reality stands in stark contrast to the long-term sustainment needs of the aerospace and defence sectors, so we must adopt a collaborative approach to mitigate future risk more effectively. When something hurts, we don’t like to look back at it; that’s human nature. However, with obsolescence, we must learn from past experiences and use our knowledge to gain a strategic

advantage.

1. Embrace proactive risk mitigation

Too often, obsolescence is treated as a problem to be solved only when a component is officially declared End-of-Life (EOL) – a critical mistake. A proactive approach involves continuous monitoring of the health of your Bill of Materials (BOM). This means leveraging market intelligence and predictive analytics to identify at-risk components long before an EOL notice is issued. By understanding market trends, supplier roadmaps, and lifecycle data, you can anticipate potential disruptions and make informed decisions early. This foresight enables strategic last-time buys, the qualification of alternative components, or engaging with a licensed manufacturer to ensure a continued supply, thereby transforming a potential crisis into a manageable event.

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OBSOLESCENCE COLUMN

2. Design with obsolescence in mind

The challenge of obsolescence is not going away. If anything, the pace of change is accelerating. By learning from past encounters and implementing a strategy that encompasses proactive risk mitigation, designing for the future, and forging strong supplier partnerships, the aerospace and defence industry can confidently navigate the complexities of component lifecycles and ensure our critical systems remain mission- ready for years to come.

can be supported for decades to come.

The battle against obsolescence begins on the drawing board. Designing for sustainability is as critical as designing for performance. This involves selecting components with longer anticipated lifecycles and avoiding single-source suppliers wherever possible. Furthermore, it means architecting systems with modularity that allows for easier technology insertion and upgrades. By considering the entire lifecycle of the system at the design stage, engineers can build in resilience to future component unavailability. This forward-thinking approach can significantly reduce the cost and complexity of future modifications, ensuring that systems

3. Choose the right supplier partners

Your suppliers are your first line of defence against obsolescence, and today is the day to start rationalising your supply chain. It is imperative to move beyond a purely transactional relationship and build strategic partnerships with suppliers who understand the unique demands of EOL in the aerospace and defence sectors. Seek value and knowledge; your partners should be more than just distributors. Ensuring that chosen partners are 100% authorised by the original component manufacturer will help eliminate the risk of counterfeit parts entering your supply chain.

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DESIGN

Uninterruptible IPC solution for industrial automation Bicker Elektronik presents a robust and fail-safe DIN rail bundle designed for control and automation tasks in industrial environments. The flexible DIN rail solution combines three perfectly matched components: the Delta DRL-24V120W1EN AC/DC power supply, the Bicker UPSI-2406DP1 DC UPS with integrated Li-ion battery pack, and the GIGAIPC QBiX-DR-EHLA6412H-A1 DIN rail industrial PC. Together, these components ensure a reliable and uninterrupted 24V DC power supply as well as high computing performance for continuous operation in harsh industrial conditions.

Compact 24V power supply for control cabinets The space-saving DRL-24V120W1EN DIN rail power supply from Delta Electronics delivers 120W nominal output (24V/5A) with an efficiency of up to 91%. With a compact width of just 30mm, it saves valuable space on the DIN rail and simplifies integration into control cabinets.

The wide input range of 90-264V AC enables global use, while the operating temperature range of -40 to +70°C ensures high reliability. Comprehensive protection features against short circuit, overvoltage, and overtemperature guarantee safe operation. The power supply is certified according to IEC/EN/UL 62368-1 and IEC/EN/UL 61010-1. Electromagnetic compatibility meets the industrial

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