TT electronics has introduced a free app to help electronic design engineers choose products for their applications. Newly available, free-of-charge, from the iTunes store, the Technology Showcase app enables iPad users to review technologies and download datasheets, with a focus on medical, defence & aerospace, industrial, transportation and energy markets.

The Showcase highlights the latest new product launches, as well as featuring TT electronics’ portfolio of resistors, semiconductors, optoelectronics, power modules and connectors.

Further information and downloads are available here:

Alternatively iPad users can search for "TT electronics" in the App Store. The Technology Showcase is additionally offered as an online service by visiting technology.ttelectronics.com

The high speed RJ45 & USB connector systems incorporate an ABAC (Mil-DTL-38999 series III) or AB05 (MIL-DTL-26482) derived metal shell with full 360 degree EMC and mechanical protection, and has been designed to meet the requirements of high speed data connections where reliability through environmental sealing and enhanced mechanical protection are required.

Please contact our sales office for further details.

A press release is due to be issued shortly, but the product brochure can be previewed on this link.

Download Fast Facts in PDF document

TT electronics’ material management teams are maintaining regular contact with all our suppliers located in Thailand to review any impact on their facilities and subsequent impact on supply. We have a list of affected suppliers and, with the exception of a few isolated incidents, the current impact to TT electronics is minimal.

The materials management team is conducting weekly reviews with these suppliers and will release updates should any issue arise.

TT electronics is committed to managing their supply chain through dynamic communication and risk assessment to ensure continuity of supply.

Download full announcement in PDF document

Weybridge, Surrey, 22nd of September 2011:TT electronics will be highlighting its range of innovative high-rel components and compliant services for military vehicle applications at the forthcoming AUSA event in Washington. TT electronics’ Hall E booth number 8247, in the UK pavilion, will feature examples of the very latest applications of the group’s services and technologies for the military and defence markets.

Visitors to the TT electronics booth will have the opportunity to meet the technical and market experts who will be available throughout the event to answer queries and discuss new application opportunities. The team will be on hand to demonstrate the benefits of the company’s portfolio of advanced mil-spec compliant components, assemblies and services.

Highlights include the recently introduced light-weight push-pull connectors designed to enhance the portability of rugged field-based communication equipment in extreme environments, as well as new developments to circular connectors including 38999, the comprehensive backshell portfolio, plus harness and box systems design capabilities.

Integrated manufacturing services (IMS) will also be showcasing their leading edge solutions for design, manufacturing, logistics and aftermarket services, managed through “TT Program Life Management” tools.

TT electronics is recognised by the Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC) 21st century supply chain (SC21) program, achieving Bronze status at several sites. Other accreditations include AS9100 globally and most recently NADCAP in China, with a global rollout scheduled for 2012.

Additionally TT electronics can provide UKAS environmental solutions, including humidity, shock, climate, vibration, corrosion, mechanical and EMC testing to help customers reduce time around design activity updates and ultimately time to market.

For further information contact the TT electronics US sales team at sales@ttelectronics-na.com

Throughout the world, military organisations are establishing programmes to modernise their operations to improve situational awareness, flexibility, agility, lethality and survivability. Electronics plays a vital role, and component manufacturers are helping defence equipment OEMs reduce the weight, size and cost of their systems, whilst meeting the ever-increasing performance demands of these programmes.
Weight is a particularly vital consideration for dismounted soldiers, typically carrying their own body mass in equipment. Programmes like the US DoD’s “Nett Warrior”, “Soldato Futuro” in Italy, Finland’s “Finnish Warrior” and Australia’s “Land 125”, all involve using electronics to help soldiers know where they are, communicate better with their comrades and commanders, and locate and neutralise the enemy.
The burgeoning amount of equipment carried by soldiers today extends to head-up displays, targeting systems, GPS, tactical computers and communications equipment. All of these need power, necessitating a variety of batteries that can make up a third of the weight a soldier carries. All this equipment needs to be connected together enabling sub-systems to communicate through serial buses, wireless personal networks, and out to networks carrying data within the unit and with headquarters.
As a result, today’s soldier needs to be fitted with an array of cables, harnesses and connectors. These, too, add weight, occupy space and increase the cost. Furthermore, the networked battlefield demands faster data throughput, greater bandwidth and overall increases in performance. Again, this can be achieved through greater standardization.
The same considerations apply throughout the defence industry. Size, weight, performance and cost are equally crucial factors for OEMs equipping unmanned vehicles, fighting vehicles, aircraft and naval systems. Interconnect standards are even more relevant when it comes to specifying systems that need interoperability – not only between legacy, present and future equipments, but also between different nation’s forces and other branches of the military.

Considerations for OEMs

In choosing electronic interconnect, OEMs need to consider and balance a number of key factors, including: the intended operational environment; required level of environmental protection (temperature range, humidity, dust…); the amount of EMI shielding or type of shield termination; size, form-factor and weight limitations; material, coatings and finishes. On top of this, there are the applicable commercial or military standards, which may or may not encompass the preceding constraints.
In the past the challenge was been compounded by demand to fulfil urgent operational requirements for new equipment. The time taken to develop and approve new military spec components that address these issues is leading some equipment manufacturers to specify commercial off-the-shelf –COTS - devices instead of the full mil spec component. In these increasingly cost-conscious times, military equipment OEMs have leveraged the availability of commercial products to deliver smaller, lighter, non-qualified military connectors to market – and fast.
In many cases, however, COTS components barely meet the requirements of defence OEMs. At best they can provide a solution that works – just. There is the further downside that OEMs are unlikely to find a second source amongst COTS devices that have identically marginal specifications.
Proprietary components tick more of the boxes than COTS and provide essentially the same disadvantage of single sourcing. Achieving full military specifications remains the goal.

The quest to miniaturise Military connectors

In the case of connectors, saving space and weight has to be reconciled with the requirement for robustness and reliability across a broad span of environments. Miniaturised connectors need the same performance and standards as their larger mil-standard counterparts, but reducing the size can impact performance. This is particularly important as more and more devices need to be interconnected - and ideally powered from a common source.
At AB, product design and development is focusing on high-density terminations that are quick and easy to connect. And, in the present absence of a Standard Mil-Spec connector interface, the new generation of connectors are being designed to be versatile enough to meet a range of different physical and electrical standards.
First new fruits of this effort include a new family of lightweight military connector systems optimised to enhance the portability of rugged field-based communication equipment, especially portable and handheld radios, and personal navigation systems.
The new Push-Pull Connectors combine lightness with extreme ruggedness and durability. Advantages over similar alternatives include: easier orientation alignment; improved sealing up to 20m depth, when mated or un-mated; variable un-mating force and simplified assembly. Optional built-in Screen-Trap® terminations also allow faster assembly of screened cables.
The connectors achieve their enhanced sealing performance by implementing multiple O-rings, such as the combination of a dynamic O-ring and additional inter-contact O-rings in the panel-mounted connectors. All connector variants feature colour-coded key location to encourage fast and accurate use in the field.
Fixed, free and in-line connector variants ensure support for differing numerous cable-to-chassis, cable-to-cable and cable-joining applications. A castellated locknut is supplied with the fixed connector to make chassis attachment simpler and more secure; and for cable-to-cable application, scoop-proof contacts in the blind-mateable free connectors prevent bending or shorting of pins during mating.

New materials

Manufacturers like AB recognise that wall thickness of the metal connector shell is a key factor in reducing weight, and are looking for new alloys and materials to square the circle of rugged yet lightweight construction.
Cable assemblies for defence material need to meet the growing requirements of an increasingly networked battlefield. Manufacturers are responding with products capable of carrying the latest high-speed data protocols. These feature ruggedized connector styles for extremely harsh environments along with contacts that are designed to simplify the crimping and assembly processes.
AB connectors and systems are proven on current fighting vehicle programmes including active service situations, nevertheless these smaller, lighter, interconnect components are finding new applications beyond the military. For example mass transit and motorsport OEMs are equally driven by the need to reduce component size and weight to the absolute minimum; and likewise need rugged construction with high reliability and extreme environmental capability.
One example: AB Connectors is bringing the advantages of military and aerospace connector design into industrial, automotive and general traction applications, introducing new modular bayonet-lock connectors based on mil-style components. These new components accept a variety of multi-pole contacts including quadrax contact modules to enable reliable signal and high-speed data interconnects up to 100Mbit/s. Any combination of co-ax, twin-ax, tri-ax or quadrax modules can be specified, delivering a highly versatile connector system capable of consolidating up to seven high-speed Ethernet connections or many combinations of signal and data links. Retention force of at least 200N ensures secure connections when exposed to large mechanical stresses Simultaneously, components such as push-pull connectors designed for non-military service are proving their worth in the armed forces. Expanding the market in both directions helps to drive costs down: indeed, manufacturers like AB work closely with suppliers and customers throughout the supplier chain to ensure widest availability at the most competitive prices.
With initiatives like this, security of supply and predictable cost are proving the essential ingredient in the military’s size, weight and power reduction programmes.

ENDS

14:46 GMT, September 15, 2011 TELFORD, United Kingdom | BAE Systems has delivered improved versions of the Scimitar recce vehicle family with tougher new hulls and a range of other upgrades. The first vehicles are now providing improved crew protection for British Army crews in Afghanistan.

Five variants of the CVR(T) (Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance –Tracked) family are being upgraded to the Mk 2 standard as part of this fast-moving and cost-effective Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR) programme. In addition to the Scimitar Mk 2 reconnaissance vehicle, the supporting Spartan troop carrier, Samson repair & recovery, Sultan command post and Samaritan ambulance are being re-hulled at a total cost of less than £30m.

The new Telford design, based on the Spartan hull, is fabricated from aluminium at BAE Systems’ Wolverhampton site and incorporates a range of design changes to improve mine blast protection, improve vehicle maintainability and reduce support costs while minimising weight growth.

A major safety feature is the improved driver egress.

“In addition to the change in material, the new hull for the Scimitar Mk 2 is based on the Spartan variant,” explains project manager Pete Hallows. “This change gives vital extra headroom within the driver’s area to fit a blast attenuation seat, while providing an additional escape route through the new rear door.

Hallows adds: “The modern alloy also enhances corrosion resistance, which means reduced maintenance and therefore reduced through-life costs.”

News of the upgrade follows a programme announced in June called Warrior Theatre Entry Standard (HERRICK), also known as TES(H), which has similarly boosted protection and mobility on Warrior infantry fighting vehicles in Afghanistan. Engineers on the two programmes shared feedback from the front line and testing to optimise design solutions in areas such as protection, suspension and seating.

The Mk 2 follows earlier upgrades which gave CVR(T) a new engine, add-on armour and better engine cooling and air filtration to cope with operation in hot, dusty climates.

More than two thousand CVR(T)s are in service with non-UK customers and BAE Systems is marketing the CVR(T) Mk 2 and earlier upgrade technology to them.

CVR(T) Mk 2 changes include:

• new mine-blast protection seating in every position in every variant
• redesigned and repositioned driver foot controls to reduce lower limb mine blast injuries
• improved appliqué armour to improve blast and ballistic protection
• upgraded torsion-bar suspension to improve vehicle mobility
• revamped fuel system and tanks
• a heavier-duty winch on the Samson variant, and many other minor changes.

A new power distribution system, including a new rotary base junction, provides improved power management between chassis and turret and will enable further systems upgrades in the future. An ongoing non-UOR brake upgrade programme will result in a retrofit to the vehicles next year.

Contract award for CVR(T) Mk 2 was in December 2010, following an earlier risk mitigation programme. The upgrade was developed, tested and managed by the Vehicles Military & Technical Services team at BAE Systems’ Telford site. The team also co-ordinated vehicle build at the nearby DSG (Defence Support Group), Donnington facility. All 50 vehicles will be delivered by early 2012.

UK sub-contractors on the programme include Jankel (Weybridge, Surrey), Allen Vanguard (Tewskbury), MTL (Sheffield), ACGB (Kettering), Tinsley Bridge (Sheffield), Horstman (Bath), Moog (Reading), Friction Hydraulics (Telford), W A Lewis (Shrewsbury), Park Precision (Weymouth, Dorset), ABEC (Birmingham), Permali (Gloucester) Park Sheet Metal (Coventry), AB Connectors (Mountain Ash, Wales) and Thales (Glasgow).

Company or Organisation Contact:

Mike Sweeney, BAE Systems
Tel: +44 (0)780 171 6452
mike.sweeney2@baesystems.com

Stephen Bethel, BAE Systems
Tel: +44 (0)7793426328
Stephen.bethel@baesystems.com

Read the article here:
http://www.defpro.com/news/details/27851/

TT electronics Demonstrates Integrated Products and Services Approach to Defence Applications at DSEi

Weybridge, Surrey, 23 August 2011: TT electronics will be highlighting its range of innovative high-rel components and compliant services for military vehicle applications at the forthcoming DSEi event in London. TT electronics' stand number S5-390, will feature examples of the very latest applications of the group's services and technologies for the military and defence markets.

Visitors to the TT electronics stand will have the opportunity to meet the technical and market experts who will be available throughout the event to answer queries and discuss new application opportunities. The team will be on hand to demonstrate the benefits of the company's portfolio of advanced mil-spec compliant components, assemblies and services.

Highlights include the recently introduced light-weight push-pull connectors designed to enhance the portability of rugged field-based communication equipment in extreme environments, as well as new developments to circular connectors including 38999, the comprehensive backshell portfolio, plus harness and box systems design capabilities.

Integrated manufacturing services (IMS) will also be showcasing their leading edge solutions for design, manufacturing, logistics and aftermarket services, managed through "TT Program Life Management" tools.

TT electronics is recognised by the Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC) 21st century supply chain (SC21) program, achieving Bronze status at several sites. Other accreditations include AS9100 globally and most recently NADCAP in China, with a global rollout scheduled for 2012.

Additionally TT electronics can provide UKAS environmental solutions, including humidity, shock, climate, vibration, corrosion, mechanical and EMC testing to help customers reduce time around design activity updates and ultimately time to market.

Railtex is firmly established in the rail industry’s calendar as the only UK showcase for technological innovation across all sectors of the supply market. More than 160 product categories will be represented at exhibition including rolling stock, track and infrastructure, signalling and communications and security systems.

Investment in rail remains a key part of the UK’s transport investment strategy as demand for extra passenger and freight services continues to grow. Therefore Railtex is the perfect event for TT electronics to showcase their products and solutions to buyers, acting as a forum for the exchange of knowledge and ideas.

www.railtex.co.uk

New 3D CAD files are provided for download within our main product ranges. Models are in STEP format (.STP) and can be read by the vast majority of 3D modelling systems. Some of the detail has been removed in an effort to reduce the file sizes. If you cannot find the files you require or need further information please contact us.

TT electronics today is about operational excellence, focusing on the customer and improving performance across the business through manufacturing and product innovation, all driven by our people.

Read more about how we are delivering operational excellence ...

The new Push-Pull Connectors combine lightness with extreme ruggedness and durability. Advantages over similar alternatives include easier orientation alignment, improved sealing when mated or un-mated, variable un-mating force and simplified assembly. Built-in Screen-Trap® terminations also allow faster assembly of screened cables.

The connectors achieve their enhanced sealing performance by implementing multiple o-rings, such as the combination of a dynamic o-ring and additional inter-contact o-rings in the panel-mounted connectors. All connector variants feature colour-coded key location to promote fast, accurate use in the field and offer current capability to 5A at 40°C.

Fixed, free and coupler-connector variants are available, thereby supporting numerous cable-to-chassis, cable-to-cable and cable-joining applications. A castellated locknut supplied with the fixed connector simplifies secure chassis attachment. Scoop-proof contacts in the blind-matable free connectors for cable-to-cable application prevent bending or shorting of pins during mating.

All variants feature gold-plated copper alloy contacts and a rugged built lightweight metal shell that can be specified in nickel, aluminium, bronze or brass. Shells are chemically blackened giving a durable, non-reflective low-visibility finish. After assembly, the connector and cable can be finished either by over-moulding or by fitting a heatshrink boot.

About AB Connectors

TT electronics AB Connectors Ltd is a recognised world leader in interconnection systems and harness design test and manufacture for the toughest environmental conditions. With a commitment to a structured new product introduction process, AB Connectors is investing in research and development of new materials and processes, surface treatments and the very latest manufacturing technology and techniques to ensure its products meet the most exacting standards encountered in the transportation, military, and aerospace markets. Quality systems and approvals include ISO9001 and ISO14001 along with a variety of product and market sector approvals including the military Mil-std 790 and IRIS.

About TT electronics plc

TT electronics plc is a focused, global electronics group supplying leading manufacturers in the defence, aerospace, medical, transportation and industrial markets. The Group consists of five divisions: Components, Sensors, Secure Power, Integrated Manufacturing Services and General Industrial each delivering technology, products and services to customers in target markets worldwide. TT electronics plc operates from headquarters based in Weybridge, Surrey, with more than 20 global manufacturing locations and more than 6,000 employees worldwide.

Marketing contact:
Claire Ryan, AB Connectors, Abercynon, Mountain Ash, Rhondda Cynon Taff, CF45 4SF.
Tel: +44 (0)1443 740331 Email: claire.ryan@ttabconnecctors.com

Additional information is available from our corporate website:
http://www.ttelectronics.com

SIFER 2011 will bring together engineers, buyers and industry professionals at France’s only exhibition dedicated exclusively to the rail market. To take place in Lille, this will be the seventh in a highly successful series of events that have progressively grown in size, scope and stature to become a key fixture in the international rail industry’s calendar.

This year TT Electronics SAS are exhibiting as a focused, global electronics group supplying leading manufacturers in the defence, aerospace, medical, transportation and industrial markets. Offering a wide product portfolio for customised applications within the rail sector including connectors, sensors, resistors and power modules.

Register here for FREE using this service. As well as getting free entry to the show visitors will also receive their badge in advance, thus avoiding the queues on-site.

TT electronics showcased the Group's expertise in the Defence & Aerospace industry at this year’s AUSA, the world’s largest land warfare exposition from the 25th to 27th October at Washington D.C, Convention Centre . This year marked the 60th anniversary of AUSA, held by the Association of the United States Army, and included over 500 industry and military exhibits.

TT electronics exhibited within the UK Group Pavilion on stand number 2060, promoting the AB Interconnect Division of companies, which includes AB Interconnect Inc, AB Connectors and New Chapel Electronics. Other TT electronics companies who participated on the stand included Optek, TT ims, IRC and BI Technologies. AUSA is widely seen as the industry’s best opportunity to exhibit and experience the very latest technological developments in the field, attracting key personnel and decision makers from the world’s leading Defence & Aerospace companies.

"The event was perhaps the most significant in the industry’s calendar representing an ideal opportunity for us to meet customers and demonstrate our capabilities in this increasingly crucial sector," said Reg Crook, Divisional Business Development Director. "As a group, TT electronics brings invaluable industry experience to the supply chain enabling our engineering teams to work in partnership with customers to develop and support the latest technologies and applications."

AUSA 2010 was bigger than ever, covering an area of 500,000 sq ft and attracting in the region of 33,000 attendees. Over the course of three days, the event hosted talks given by the Secretary of the Army, the Army Chief of Staff and other senior Army and Department of Defence representatives. As such it presented a unique opportunity for UK companies to access a high level network of contacts established by WAG and UKTI.

About Association of the United States Army (AUSA)

AUSA is a private, non-profit educational organization that supports America's Army - Active, National Guard, Reserves, Civilians, Retirees, ROTC Cadets and family members. AUSA Chapters worldwide develop programs and activities that provide community support for America's Army through individual and corporate members. The Institute of Land Warfare (ILW) extends the influence of AUSA by informing and educating its members and the American public on the critical nature of land forces and the importance of the United States Army. The MSU AUSA Cadet Company focuses on building knowledge and professionalism among the corps of cadets. Membership is limited to enrolled ROTC cadets; receive the national monthly magazine and a regional newspaper which discuss issues of importance to the US Army and those being considered in the US Congress. Members also receive a ribbon for wear on the class "A" uniform signifying membership. Further information is available at http://www.ausa.org/

TT electronics exhibiting within the UK Group Pavilion promoting the AB Interconnect Division of companies at AUSA 2010

AB Connectors is using this year’s InnoTrans exhibition as the platform to demonstrate its new Cab Audible Alarm Unit. In the complex environment of the train cab the CAAU device provides the driver with secure centralised audio alerts from a range of different train security systems including TCMS and ATP. The CAAU has been developed in conjunction with key customers and has been designed to be hardware programmable, overcoming the complexities of testing similar software driven devices. The alarm is factory-configurable with a wide range of complex sounds to customer’s specific requirements and features built-in ambient noise compensation to counter background noise sub-300 Hz.

The CAAU operates from a dual train DC supply of 110 Vdc nominal, with dual independent, galvanically-isolated channels. Additional features include programmable volumes and frequency outputs with a sound pressure level up to 90 dB(A) at 1m and an output frequency range from 300 Hz to 6 kHz. Devices are operational from -15°C up to +75°C and meet IP65 rating standards.

InnoTrans takes place on September 21-24^th at the Messe Exhibition Centre, Berlin and features over 220 transport technology firms representing railway infrastructure, interiors, public transport and tunnel construction. InnoTrans has become established as an international industry showplace focusing on Railway Technology. Visitors can view a full range of rail vehicles in static displays on the Messe Berlin tracks located outside the exhibition halls.

Download PDF document

AB Connectors is bringing the advantages of military and aerospace connector design into industrial, automotive and general traction applications. The new modular Bayonet-Lock Connectors accept a variety of multi-pole contacts including quadrax contact modules to enable reliable signal and high-speed data interconnects up to 100Mbit/s.

The MIL-DTL-5015 and VG95234 style connectors are available in a range of sizes to accept one, two, four or seven modules containing multi-pole contact. Any combination of co-ax, twin-ax, tri-ax or quadrax modules can be specified, delivering a highly versatile connector system capable of consolidating up to seven high-speed Ethernet connections or many combinations of signal and data links. Retention force of at least 200N ensures secure connections when exposed to large mechanical stresses.

The contacts feature industry-standard crimp terminations, enabling rapid connection to multi-core cables. Also, the insulator design eliminates the need for insertion or extraction tooling. The sealing system employs a stepped wire sealing grommet, which provides a water-tight seal to the cables meeting IP67 specifications. The connectors have passed 96 hours exposure to salt spray.

The modular contacts are housed in a removable thermoplastic insulator, which can be positioned in a number of orientations and features a polarising keyway to maintain correct orientation with the outer shell. The insulator is engineered to present a low fire hazard. Gold-plated copper contacts display low contact resistance, better than 5mΩ nominal and 10mΩ after conditioning. Maximum operating voltage is 500V _peak (DC or AC), and the connectors are rated for operation from -55°C to +125°C.

Download pdf document

Download Data Sheet in PDF Format

TT electronics’ Defence Team is taking part in the Defence & Aerospace Manufacturing Roadshow 2010, which will visit the sites of 11 major contractors across the UK and in France from September 5th to October 1st.

The mobile exhibition allows engineers to conveniently assess component innovations from TT electronics Group with a particular focus on innovative interconnect solutions from AB Connectors and New Chapel Electronics. Representatives from other TT electronics companies, Semelab, Welwyn Components and TT IMS will be showcasing high performance semiconductor solutions, microelectronics and resistor technologies and contract manufacturing capability.

"The defence and aerospace markets remain a key focus for TT electronics and participating in this type of event enables our industry specialists to develop closer relationships with significant customers. The roadshow format benefits busy engineers who often cannot commit the time to visit a conventional exhibition for the information they need," said Reg Crook, Divisional Business Development Director. "As a mobile event it provides a focused and space efficient opportunity for us to discuss our most important new developments with key customers."

Visitors to the roadshow will have the opportunity to meet TT electronics’ Defence industry experts and review products such as the new range of D 38999 series III connectors, which have recently achieved QPL qualification from the Defence Supply Centre Columbus (DSCC). These connectors have been designed to cope with challenging environments such as high G forces and extreme temperatures.

Further products on show include lightweight composite tubing, which aids the Aerospace industry in meeting tight weight constraints. The composite tube can withstand 300oC making it ideal for use in engine applications and is 25% of the weight of a similar stainless steel tube, is non-conductive, corrosion resistant, has high ballistic tolerance and can be moulded into intricate shapes to suit specific design parameters.

The tour will open at Selex Galileo in Basildon, Essex, and move on to visit BAe Systems in Rochester, Lockheed Martin in Ampthill, Goodrich in Pitstone, Selex’s Luton facility, and Rolls Royce sites at Victoria Road and Moor Lane in Derby, before travelling south to Hampshire for visits to Lockheed Martin and Roke Manor Research. From there the tour moves west, to Airbus and Rolls Royce in Bristol, Thales at Templecombe and Qinetiq at Boscombe Down. In the final leg the roadshow travels across the English Channel to three Airbus sites at the airliner manufacturer’s base in Toulouse, France.

Further information and tour dates for the Defence & Aerospace Manufacturing Roadshow are available at http://www.dream-marketing.co.uk/dream-marketing-stand.html

As part of the drive for continuous improvement, AB Connectors are pleased to confirm the availability of the new improved design of extraction tool applicable to the ABCIRP Connector range.

The new design gives enhanced ease of contact extraction, and by virtue of the design, has improved the robustness of the tip.

AB Connectors will from 16th August 2010 supply both styles of extraction tool tips with every order – "split" and "solid" front tips.

Download full document

AB Connectors contract win creates 40 new jobs

Abercynon-based AB Connectors has won a £2 million contract to supply equipment to Thales UK’s new vehicle integration centre in West Wales, resulting in the creation of 40 new high-skilled jobs.

The new Thales centre in Llangennech, near Llanelli, which opened last November, specialises in the hi-tech fit out of complex vehicles, including the Ministry of Defence’s new fleet of Warthog all-terrain tracked armoured vehicles.

AB Connectors has an established reputation as one of the market leaders in design, test and manufacture of harsh environment interconnection systems, bespoke harness assemblies and connectors. Its equipment is used by the defence, aerospace and the traction (railway) industries, and is specifically designed for use in harsh environments.

Part of the TT Electronics Group, AB Connectors is supplying cabling and harnessing systems, as well as racking systems to house communications equipment for more than 100 Warthog vehicles destined for the Afghanistan theatre of operations.

Ieuan Wyn Jones, Minister for the Economy and Transport, has welcomed the news, saying that the investment by Thales is bringing benefits to the wider economy. "Thales UK stated that it was keen to source materials locally, and to develop and build up a local supply chain where possible. I am pleased to hear that it is certainly doing that. The significant contract awarded to AB Connectors is excellent news as it has already created 40 new jobs and opens the door for potentially more business."

Managing Director of AB Connectors Tony Lewis says the company is working closely with Thales UK to provide a first-class service. "It is a prestigious contract and we are delighted to have been selected as a preferred contractor to Thales UK for cabling and connecting systems."

"It is not only an important contract for our business financially but it means we have been able to create new jobs and take on a significant number of people locally to service the contract, which is great news for the valley."

"We have benefited from training support from the Welsh Assembly Government, which is really important as cabling is a highly specialised area and we have also had support to invest in state of the art machining equipment. That support is now bearing fruit and has given us a competitive edge that has proved to be a massive advantage."

In addition to the AB Connectors contract, Thales is using a number of other locally based companies to service their Llanelli site, including Runtech Ltd, iCreate, Crane Aid, Gwent Mechanical Handling, EG Lewis and Control Gear

Alex Cresswell, head of Thales UK’s land defence business, says: "We look forward to working with AB Connectors, and other highly capable companies based in the area, to deliver this valuable capability to the UK Armed Forces. The Warthog vehicle, with its installed electronic systems, represents a very significant military capability."

The Connectors Division of TT Electronics plc comprises AB Connectors in Wales, along with manufacturing and design facilities in North Carolina (USA), Suzhou (China) and New Chapel Electronics aerospace harnessing company in Gloucester-shire (UK).

AB Connectors carries out the research and development of new materials and pro-cesses, surface treatments and the very latest manufacturing technology and techniques in-house

Ends

Notes to Editors:
Background information on Warthog:
In December 2008 the UK MoD announced the award of a contract worth over £150m to ST Kinetics to convert 100+ Bronco all-terrain vehicles into Warthog vehicles for the UK Armed Forces. (Bronco is currently in service with the Singapore Armed Forces.)

Warthog will come in four variants: a troop carrier; an ambulance; a command vehicle; and a repair and recovery vehicle. The ambulance variant will be capable of carrying casualties, medics and kit. Warthog’s repair and recovery variant will be fitted with a crane and winch, and will have the capability of towing another Warthog vehicle back from the front line.

Warthog will be powered by a 7.2-litre engine, producing 350bhp, and will be able to move through water - all while carrying up to 11 troops and offering advanced armoured protection. When not in the water, the highly agile, all-terrain vehicle will be able to climb steep gradients, cling to severe slopes, tackle vertical obstacles and roll across trenches.

In August 2009 Thales UK was awarded a contract to equip these vehicles with key mission systems as part of an MoD Urgent Operational Requirement programme. The contract covers the installation of UK-specific equipment to the vehicles (additional armour, specialist electronic counter-measure equipment and communica-tion tools) to bring them in line with UK theatre-entry requirements.

In November 2009 the Rt Hon Rhodri Morgan AM, opened Thales UK’s new vehicle integration facility in Llangennech where the vehicles are currently being fitted out.

About AB Connectors
AB Connectors was founded in 1935 in London as AB Metal Products and moved to Wales after WWII. In 1976 the business diversified from manufacturing metal components for domestic appliances into military electronic components before being renamed as AB Connectors Ltd. In 1993 TT electronics acquired the AB Electronics Group PLC and with it AB Connectors.

Press contact:
AB Connectors
Claire Ryan Marketing Co-ordinator
Telephone: 01443-743454

About Thales and Thales UK
Thales is a global technology leader for the Aerospace and Space, Defence, Security and Transportation markets. In 2009 the company generated revenues of £11.5 billion (12.9 billion euros) with 68,000 employees in 50 countries. With its 25,000 engineers and researchers, Thales has a unique capability to design, develop and deploy equip-ment, systems and services that meet the most complex security requirements. Thales has an exceptional international footprint, with operations around the world working with customers as local partners.

Thales UK employs 8,500 staff based at 40 locations. In 2009 Thales UK's revenues were around £1.5 billion.

Press contact:
Thales UK
Kathryn Bell
Mob: +44 7813 903274
Email: kathryn.bell@thalesgroup.com

www.thalesgroup.com/uk

In March 2010 Gordon Graham was proudly appointed position of Divisional Sales Director. Holding 24 years experience with other leading connector manufacturing companies, ITT Cannon, Molex and Burndy / Souriau. Gordon holds both Holden and Miller Heinman Strategic Selling training with 15 years spent working and developing strategic accounts.

“The recent economy has seen some difficult times. A significant part of which being within the automotive market. However, it was clear to me that the new leadership team held a clear vision for TT group with AB Connectors, New Chapel Electronics and AB Interconnect a core part of the future growth strategy.

The focus on land based militiary, traction, aerospace, industrial markets and distribution coupled with alignment to the strategic accounts will optimise the opportunities allowing TT electronics to grow above the market rate.

This is an exciting time to join TT. I am looking forward to the challenge and the opportunity to develop the strategic accounts, helping to shape the business further in 2010.”

Gordon Graham

This product has been specifically designed for military communications applications. In comparison to other connectors of the same type it offers easier orientation alignment, greater sealing performance both mated and un-mated, variable un-mating force and simpler assembly. In addition this connector range is fully RoHS compliant.

A High Density push/pull connector. It has variable mating forces to meet specific applications.

Up to 60ft sealing, pcb & solder contacts, scoop proof, blind mating, braid trap and suitable for heatshrink or overmoulded applications.

Salt resistant and over 2000 matings.

Contact our Sales team for further details!

AB SC (Push / Pull) Datasheet

AB SC (Push / Pull) Flyer

TT electronics plc is pleased to announce that Sean Watson has been appointed non-executive Chairman following the Annual General Meeting to be held in May. Sean will succeed John Newman, who today announces his intention to retire as non-executive Chairman and from the Board following the AGM.

Sean Watson is a corporate partner at CMS Cameron McKenna LLP, a major City law firm. He has been a non-executive Director of TT electronics since November 2007 and his extensive experience of the City and all areas of corporate law has proved valuable to the Group. Sean was also a non-executive director of Informa plc between 2000 and 2009.

John Newman was appointed Chief Executive of TT electronics in 1987 following the acquisition of a company in which he was a major shareholder. After assuming the role of executive Chairman in 1989, John became non-executive Chairman in September 2009. The Board would like to thank John for his huge contribution over many years and wish him well for the future.

John Newman commented,

"After some 25 years involvement with the Group, and now in my 65th year, I have decided to retire from the Board. I am confident that the Group is in good hands and it is my intention to remain a major shareholder for the foreseeable future. Sean has already developed strong relationships with the Board and executive management. His experience and knowledge of the business will ensure that the Group continues successfully to deliver on its strategy."

Sean Watson commented:

"I am delighted to have been asked to become Chairman of TT electronics and look forward to dedicating considerable time and effort to leading the Board, working with the executive management and engaging with our shareholders to continue to develop the Group's full potential."

Visit AB Connectors within the British RIA Pavilion (Technology Hall 2.2) at InnoTrans the leading international trade fair for railway technology on 21-24 Sept 2010, Berlin, Germany.

The show promotes Transport Technology, Innovative Components, Vehicles and Systems with a trade fair, convention and outdoor rail displays.

Issue 2:

• Contracts for military in Afghanistan
• Marketing Activity
• Profle - New Chapel Electronics
• New Military Contracts
  Download full Defence Insight Issue 2 in PDF format.

  Previous Versions: Download Defence Insight Issue 1

AB Connectors Achieves QPL Qualification for UK Manufactured Connectors

AB Connectors has achieved the prestigious Qualified Products Lists (QPL) qualification from the Defence Supply Centre Columbus (DSCC) for its new range of D 38999 series III connectors. This new family of connectors has been developed to withstand the demanding environmental conditions often associated with military, avionic, aerospace and naval applications.

The MIL-DTL-38999 Series III range of connectors achieved QPL qualification after rigorous formal testing in the USA approved test facilities. Supporting the qualification process underlines AB Connectors’ commitment to supply high quality performance products for all military and commercial markets.

The rugged design of these connectors presents a high performance when subjected to vibration, shock and EMI/RFI environments. The range has a quick mate threaded coupling system combined with a high performance anti-vibration mechanism. The stub acme style threads on the coupling nut and receptacles avoid the possibility of cross threading. This feature also improves the ease of blind mating. The EMI/RFI performance is enhanced by the grounding spring mechanism.

Key features of the MIL-DTL-38999 Series III connector’s performance include, scoop proof connectors to eliminate the possibility of contact damage and high contact density with the availability of up to 128 size 22D contacts in one connector. Additional benefits include polarisation by the angular position of the Keyways and elongated fixing holes on the fixed connector to allow trouble-free replacement of older generation connectors, enabling the painless upgrading of equipment design.

The MIL-DTL-38999 Series III devices operate at temperatures up to 175ºC down to -65ºC. The product is currently produced in Zinc Cobalt, Cadmium (in-house plating) and Marine Nickel Aluminium Bronze to CECC 75 201 002, allowing a standardisation of the product style on equipment across all three Armed Services. Class Z (Zinc Nickel) and Electroless Nickel will be introduced in the near future.

AB Connectors is the only UK owned (part of TT Electronics plc) manufacturer of this product range and will produce these connectors in its factory close to Cardiff, Wales and for the North American market this product range will be produced in our Smithfield, N.C. Factory

For further UK/European sales enquires contact: elaine.evans@ttabconnectors.com

For USA enquiries contact: barbara.bannister@abinterconnect.com

Download PDF document

New Chapel Electronics Ltd is a provider of Back-shells, Electrical Harnessing Systems and wiring solutions to the Military and Aerospace Markets.

The Company was formed in 1978 and moved to their current premises in 1987. NCE has a turnover is in excess of £5.5m and employs 90 staff.

New Chapel Electronics Ltd now joins with three other TT electronic plc companies to provide a comprehensive Connector/Back-Shell, Harness and System Solutions for both Military and Commercial Markets.

The Other members of this close team of Companies are:

• AB Connectors Ltd, Based in South Wales
• AB Interconnect Inc, Based in Smithfield, North Carolina, USA
• AB Connectors, Based in Suzhou, China

Harvey Preston the MD of the AB Connector Group of companies welcomed NCE to the team stating "There is a great deal of synergy between NCE and the rest of our Group. With further investment and a joint approach for offering more comprehensive solutions to our Customers, we feel it is an ideal fit. Mike May has been appointed Director / General Manager and Andy Ponting remains as Sales Director. www.newchapel.co.uk"

AB Connectors is very proud to announce that it has had its VG 95234 approvals extended for another 5 years. This popular bayonet range of connectors has a global demand and as such AB Connectors is pleased to have re-affirmed it's commitment to ensuring that all the foremost approvals will be available for the future.

Few companies actually hold the VG 95234 approval. Many companies claim to provide a product which is similar to or may conform to the VG specification. It is however accepted that the VG specification is a demanding one and as such demonstrates the level of Quality and Performance which can be expected from this bayonet range of connectors supplied by AB Connectors.

Before you purchase a VG approved product ensure that your supplier has a valid certificate like the one below.