The Future of Industrial Connectivity: Trends and Challenges at Weidmuller USA
In this second installment of a four-part series on industrial connectivity, Machine Design explores emerging trends shaping the future of the industry with Randy Sadler, president and CEO of Weidmuller USA. He says that there are five primary trends driving advancements in connectivity solutions: connectorization, miniaturization, customization, smart connectivity and the rise of single-pair Ethernet.
Connectorization is a defining change, shifting from traditional hard wiring to plug-and-play solutions that increase speed and simplify part replacements in the field. As industries strive for greater efficiency, miniaturization follows suit with devices becoming increasingly compact—a reflection of broader technological advancements where bulky computers have given way to the power of smartphones.
Customization is also key, especially for Weidmuller, which offers 80,000 SKUs—a range that Sadler says allows clients to find tailored solutions for specific applications that adapt to their unique needs. The integration of smart connectivity, incorporating IoT and AI, facilitates monitoring, control and optimization across industrial processes, ensuring that systems operate seamlessly.
Finally, the adoption of single-pair Ethernet offers a streamlined wiring solution, reducing complexity from four wires to two while increasing bandwidth and tremendous transmission distance, further supporting the efficiency goal.
The company’s products are significant in the data center market where they play a critical role in everything from backup generators to servers. The trend toward miniaturization and connectorization aligns with the increasing demands of this sector. Additionally, applications and intralogistics—especially relevant for large distribution hubs—highlight the need for advanced connectivity solutions to improve automation and reliability in manufacturing processes.
However, as Sadler points out, the journey toward advanced connectivity is not without challenges. Key issues include security vulnerabilities, particularly with IoT devices being prime targets for cyberattacks. There’s also the need for scalability to accommodate the rapid expansion of connected devices. Power management is an increasing concern in the United States where energy demands are at an all-time high. And resiliency remains top of mind following critical incidents like the water crisis in Richmond, showcasing the need for backup systems and real-time notifications to prevent operational failures.
Watch additional parts of this interview series with Randy Sadler:
