Tradeshows, exhibitions, and conventions have been the lifeblood of our industry for many decades. They offered an opportunity to meet customers and learn about new products, an opportunity that was impossible to replicate before the birth of the internet. While digital media have eroded their unique position in the industry somewhat, they still provided a face-to-face forum in which to share information that was valuable to suppliers and customers alike.
The last 24 months have a difficult time for all of us. Our key goal was to keep everyone safe. Most of us will be all too aware of the toll that the pandemic has taken, and we must take the time to remember those we have lost. From a professional viewpoint, our industry has thrived on personal contact, and none of us knew whether we could continue in business as before.
It may still be too early to say whether we are truly rid of this pandemic, but there are signs for optimism. The electronics industry has responded well to the changes imposed upon it, and in many ways played a huge part in the fight against COVID. And no indication of the optimism in the industry is as strong as the return of tradeshows. We in Europe have been slower to return to the exhibition halls than our colleagues in the USA, but things are starting to change.
About two weeks ago, I attended the Southern Manufacturing Exhibition at Farnborough in the UK. While not quite as large as the world-famous Air Show that will be held at the same location later this year, it was certainly a huge breath of fresh air. Aside from the familiar networking opportunities and the chance to catch up with old colleagues, there was a real feeling of new beginnings at the show, with an impressive number of visitors and great feedback from the exhibitors.
The most important lesson that I took from my visit was that the industry has not stagnated. At every booth, I asked a simple question – “What’s new?” The answers were hugely positive – every manufacturer had something new and exciting to showcase. This is an exciting time for electronic design engineers.
The Southern Manufacturing Exhibition was one of the first European shows of this year, and it heralds a great timetable packed with some interesting events. There are several shows that will let you reengage with Samtec in Europe. Let’s take a look at just a few.
European Microwave Week. London, April 2022
Samtec is a key supplier in the world of microwave products and is developing some fantastic products in the world of precision RF connectors. This event provides us with a great place the showcase some of the advances we have made in the world of RF connectors.
The event will be attended by the Samtec Europe team and will be supported by Mike Dunne and Steve McGeary from Samtec USA. I had the opportunity to interview Mike and Steve last year about Samtec’s expertise in precision RF connectors. Take another look at the interview to learn more, and visit the Samtec booth in April to ask them your questions face-to-face.
Embedded World. Nuremberg, June 2022
Even with the relaxing of restrictions early in 2022, there has still been some movement in the tradeshow timetable. Embedded World was rescheduled from February to June, but will be back in action in June. Embedded has the reputation for being a highly technical show, with lots to appeal to designers and engineers. Samtec will be present in force, and will be able to walk you through some of the latest technologies we have been working on during the pandemic.
New Tech. Tel-Aviv, April 2022
Israel has long been at the cutting edge of some of the most exciting technologies in every field from agriculture to renewable energy. If you are based in Israel, the New Tech Exhibition in April will be a showcase for the latest innovations. Samtec will be in attendance.
Electronica. Munich, November 2022
Electronica is the largest dedicated electronics show in Europe. Held in the wonderful city of Munich, this is one not to miss. You might just need more than a day to see it all.
This is just a selection of some of the most interesting events in Europe this year. Samtec are planning to be exhibiting at these shows, along with a number of specialised and regional events throughout the year.
The last two years have been challenging, but electronics has continued to be one of the most important industries in the world, playing a part in innovations all over the globe. We look forward to seeing you at some of the European tradeshows being held this year where hopefully you will share with us the hope and excitement we have for the future.
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