Farnell has signed a distribution agreement with RIGOL Technologies, giving customers across EMEA easier access to high-performance test and measurement equipment.

The agreement will help design engineers, research institutions, and industrial manufacturers get the tools they need faster, reducing delays and supporting product development across the region.

“This agreement makes RIGOL products more accessible to customers across EMEA,” said Dan Ford, Vice President Sales & Service, EMEA – Farnell Global. “With strong availability and local support, we can help engineers keep projects moving.”

Farnell will stock a wide range of RIGOL products, including oscilloscopes, spectrum analysers, RF test equipment, and power supplies, giving customers a single source for essential test solutions.

Sebi Karakus, General Manager at RIGOL Technologies EU GmbH, said: “Working with Farnell will help us reach more customers across EMEA and support engineers with reliable, cost-effective test and measurement tools.”

RIGOL’s electronic test and measurement solutions are now available to order through Farnell across EMEA.

Global engineering community invited to develop solutions that enhance wellbeing, safety and quality of life

element14, an Avnet community, has launched a new smart home and healthcare design challenge inviting engineers, makers and technology enthusiasts to design and build innovative prototypes focused on improving everyday living environments and personal wellbeing.

The challenge encourages participants to create a prototype smart home or healthcare system designed to support a happier, healthier person or household. Projects may address physical or mental health needs or introduce intelligent solutions that simplify daily life at home.

Five selected challengers will each receive a free kit of components to support the design and build of their prototype. Participants will document their build process through blog posts and share their final outcomes on the element14 Community platform. Submissions will be evaluated based on creativity, technical execution and innovative use of the provided components.

“Smart home and healthcare technologies have the potential to transform how we live and care for one another,” said Andreea Teodorescu, Global Director of Product Marketing and element14 Community. “This challenge encourages our global community to apply their creativity and engineering expertise to develop practical solutions that improve wellbeing, independence and quality of life.”

Examples of smart home and healthcare project concepts include, but are not limited to, open-source health monitoring systems, athletic performance tracking tools, safety and wellbeing solutions for elderly individuals, automated medication management devices, therapeutic platforms supporting mental health, and interactive monitoring or support tools for children.

The first-place winner will receive a prize bundle, that includes a Google Pixel Watch and Philips Hue Outdoor Camera. The second-place winner will receive a Google Pixel Watch and a blood pressure monitor, and the third-place winner will receive a blood pressure monitor. All participants who successfully complete the challenge will also receive an oximeter finger clip.

Applications are open now through 16 August. Selected participants will have until 18 October to complete and submit their projects.

For more information and to register, visit: https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-home-healthcare-challenge

Farnell has announced a new global partnership with Hailo, a pioneering edge artificial intelligence (AI) chipmaker, to expand access to high-performance AI solutions for customers worldwide.

Through the collaboration, Farnell will offer Hailo’s AI products via their global distribution network, e-commerce platforms, and engineering community, enabling engineers, developers, and enterprises to integrate advanced edge AI capabilities into their edge designs more efficiently and at scale.

“Partnering with Hailo further strengthens Farnell’s commitment to delivering leading-edge technologies that help our customers accelerate innovation,” said Jose Lok, Global Product Category Director – Onboard Components & SBC at Farnell. “Hailo’s high-performance AI solutions bring powerful edge AI capabilities to a wide range of applications, and we are excited to make these technologies more accessible to customers globally.”

Hailo’s AI processors deliver data centre-class performance for edge devices with exceptional power efficiency. The partnership will support customers in developing next-generation AI applications across industries, including physical AI, smart cities, industrial automation, logistics, automotive, and intelligent retail — helping meet the growing demand for intelligent, connected, and sustainable solutions.

“We’re excited to join forces with Farnell to bring our advanced edge AI solutions to more customers globally,” said Jan-Friso Blacquiere, VP Sales EMEA, Hailo Technologies. “With Farnell’s strong global presence and online channels, this partnership will empower innovators to realise new levels of AI performance at the edge.”

Customers will have access to Hailo’s AI accelerators, modules, and development kits, supported by design resources, technical expertise, and reliable supply chain services. The collaboration reflects Farnell’s ongoing commitment to supporting engineers and businesses with innovative technologies that accelerate product development and time-to-market.

Hailo AI solutions are now available at Farnell in EMEA, Newark in North America, and element14 in APAC.

element14, an Avnet community, has launched a new initiative within its RoadTest program, inviting engineers to apply to test and review a product of their choosing. 

The initiative allows participants to request any product priced at $175 or less from Newark, Farnell or element14 online stores. Ten selected applicants will receive their chosen product at no cost and keep it in exchange for publishing a review. 

Applicants are required to submit a proposal outlining the product they would like to review, why they selected it and the test plan they intend to follow. Submissions should also include a brief overview of the applicant’s background, experience level and familiarity with relevant technologies such as embedded systems, microcontrollers, programming or prototyping. 

Applications demonstrating clear alignment between the proposed review and the applicant’s experience, along with creativity and technical depth, will have a greater chance of selection. 

Engineers may choose to review a wide range of products, including single-board computers, development and motor control kits, wireless or optical systems and bench equipment such as power supplies, oscilloscopes and soldering stations. 

Reviews can take many forms, including evaluating the out-of-the-box experience, benchmarking performance against specifications, conducting cybersecurity testing or assessing durability under demanding conditions. 

The enrollment deadline is 30 August. Registration to join the element14 Community is free and required to participate. 

In addition, the element14 Community has launched a “Show and Tell” competition to highlight innovative electronics projects. Participants can submit blog posts featuring projects they have created independently, professionally or as part of academic work, supported by photos, videos, diagrams and code. The top 25 submissions will each receive an Arduino Uno Q. 

For more information on the RoadTest, visit RoadTest program page. For details on the Show and Tell competition, visit Show and Tell competition page. 

element14, an Avnet community, has announced three upcoming technical webinars designed to help engineers and industry professionals strengthen their expertise in product quality for regulated industries, power management design and smart home device development. 

The first webinar, hosted in collaboration with Emerson and NI, will take place on 16 July from 3PM to 4PM BST. Titled “Ensuring Product Quality in Regulated Industries – Lessons Learned from the MedTech Industry,” the session will explore how a platform-based approach to test and measurement helps teams manage increasing complexity across the product lifecycle, from concept through production. 

The webinar will cover: 

• What test and measurement looks like in MedTech
• Key principles for designing high-quality, regulated products
• A case study on developing a smart patient monitor
• Live Q&A 

The second webinar, hosted in collaboration with Microchip Technology and Tektronix, will take place on 23 July from 3PM to 4PM BST. Titled “Designing for Efficiency: Validating Modern Embedded and Datacom PMIC Designs,” the session will explore how engineers can support modern embedded and datacom applications that require compact size, efficiency and reliable power delivery.  

The webinar will cover: 

• Measurement challenges when validating PMIC performance
• An overview of the MCP16701 PMIC architecture, key characteristics and capabilities
• Demonstrations of capturing transient behavior, ripple, noise and switching characteristics 

The third webinar, hosted in collaboration with Nordic Semiconductor, will take place on 30 July from 3PM to 4PM BST. Titled “How to Build a Smart Matter Device with Matter,” the session introduces the fundamentals of the Matter standard and demonstrates how to develop connected smart home devices within a unified ecosystem. 

The webinar agenda includes: 

• An introduction to the Matter standard and its role in enabling cross-platform ecosystems
• A live demonstration of flashing a development kit and connecting it to a smart home network
• Guidance on building experience with smart devices and accessing additional resources 

All webinars are free to attend and open globally. These sessions are ideal for engineers, developers and technical professionals looking to design reliable systems, optimize power performance and develop next-generation connected devices. 

For more information and to register for the webinars, please visit https://community.element14.com/learn/events/. 

Farnell has concluded the second season of its award-winning Top Tech Voices podcast series, bringing together leading experts and thought leaders to explore how innovation can improve lives, protect what matters and help solve real human challenges. 

Across six episodes, the series examined topics ranging from mental health and sustainability to neurotechnology, human enhancement and the future of urban living. Hosted by Georgia Lewis-Anderson, the season featured conversations with renowned experts: 

• Mental Health and Technology: Navigating the Digital Mind – Dr Jack Lewis
• Sustainable Tech: Innovations for a Greener Planet – Fionn Ferreira
• Neurotechnology and Brain Interfaces – Professor Anil Seth
• Biohacking and Human Enhancement: Redefining Our Limits – Dr Julia Jones
• Work–Tech–Life Balance – Dr Anne-Laure Le Cunff
• Smart Cities and Urban Tech: Designing the Future Metropolis – Professor Carlo Ratti 

The series has attracted more than 3.6 million views across YouTube and Bilibili and generated over 83,500 hours of watch time, demonstrating strong global interest in discussions focused on the human impact of emerging technologies. 

Through conversations spanning neuroscience, sustainability, health technology and urban innovation, the series highlighted how technology can be applied responsibly and purposefully to address real-world challenges and improve everyday lives. 

"What made this season special was the diversity of perspectives. We brought together experts from neuroscience, sustainability, health, behavioural science and urban innovation, but a common theme emerged throughout every conversation: technology is most powerful when it helps people thrive. The response from audiences around the world shows that there is growing interest in understanding not just what technology can do, but how it can be applied responsibly and meaningfully in our everyday lives," said Rebeca Obregon, President of Farnell Global.  

To further engage audiences, Farnell will soon launch an interactive Top Tech Voices quiz on the element14 Community platform to test knowledge of season two's topics and expert insights. Participants will also have the chance to compete for prizes while revisiting key discussions from the series. 

Building on the success of its first two seasons, Top Tech Voices continues to provide a platform for expert perspectives on the technologies, ideas and innovations shaping the future, while creating new opportunities for audiences to engage with the conversations beyond the podcast itself. 

Watch all episodes from season two, via Farnell's YouTube channel or Spotify.  

For more information, visit farnell.com/top-tech-voices.

Farnell has announced the launch of its dedicated drone solutions proposition, designed to support engineers and innovators developing next-generation unmanned aerial systems across a wide range of industries. 

As demand for drones continues to grow across sectors including agriculture, logistics, inspection, mapping, media production, emergency response and defence, engineers require reliable, lightweight and high-performance technologies capable of operating in demanding environments. Farnell’s new campaign highlights its extensive portfolio and expertise in supporting drone development at every stage of the design and build process. 

The company offers a comprehensive range of products spanning all key categories required for drone applications, including embedded and computing solutions, sensors, wireless and RF components, passives, interconnect, electromechanical components, motors and motion, power, lighting, displays and optoelectronics, as well as test and measurement tools. This breadth of portfolio enables engineers to design systems that deliver enhanced navigation, improved safety and greater operational efficiency. 

By combining a wide product range with technical support and engineering expertise, Farnell helps customers accelerate development timelines while ensuring reliability and performance in flight. 

“Demand for drone technologies is increasing across multiple industries, and engineers are under growing pressure to deliver systems that are both high-performing and reliable,” said Andrew Weatherill, Vice President, Global Product at Farnell. 

“At Farnell, we provide a comprehensive range of products covering every aspect of drone design, from embedded computing and connectivity to power and motion. Combined with our technical expertise and support, we enable customers to design with confidence and build solutions that perform in demanding environments.” 

The launch is supported by a dedicated campaign showcasing Farnell’s drone capabilities and solutions.  

For more information, visit uk.farnell.com/mc/drone-applications 

element14, an Avnet Community, has launched a new smart transport design challenge inviting engineers, makers and technology enthusiasts to design and build innovative prototypes focused on the future of electric and intelligent vehicles.

The challenge encourages participants to create a prototype smart electric vehicle or an intelligent system designed for next‑generation transportation, tackling real‑world challenges such as obstacle avoidance, battery optimisation, vehicle safety and system efficiency.

Five selected challengers will receive a free kit of components to support the design and build of their prototype or test rig. Participants must document their build process through blog posts and share their final outcomes. Submissions will be evaluated based on creativity, technical execution and innovative use of the components provided.

“Smart transportation is evolving quickly, and hands-on experimentation plays a critical role in turning ideas into practical solutions,” said Andreea Teodorescu, Global Director of Product Marketing and element14 Community. “This challenge empowers community members to explore emerging vehicle technologies while sharing knowledge and inspiring innovation across the engineering community.”

Example smart transport project concepts include, but are not limited to:

• Prototype electric vehicles
• Automated or auto-charging EV parking systems
• Battery management and diagnostic systems
• Speed monitoring solutions
• EV safety and redundancy systems
• Traffic management solutions
• Sensor and perception systems
• Navigation and obstacle avoidance systems

Applicants are encouraged to review the example application available on the challenge page to assist with the submission process.

The first-place winner will receive a smart electric scooter, a smart LED bike helmet and a bionic dog robot. Second place will receive a bionic dog robot, and third place will be awarded an off-road unmanned ground vehicle robot. All participants who successfully complete the challenge will also receive a 400A AC/DC Clamp Meter.

Applications are open now through 7 June. Selected participants will have until 16 August to complete and submit their projects.

For more information and to register, visit: https://community.element14.com/ez-ev

Farnell's Top Tech Voices podcast continues its season with two new episodes featuring neuroscientist and founder Dr Anne-Laure Le Cunff and architect and MIT Professor Carlo Ratti. 

In episode five, Dr Anne-Laure Le Cunff explores the role of curiosity as a practical tool for navigating uncertainty in modern work and life. 

Drawing on neuroscience and her work with global knowledge workers, she challenges traditional ideas of success built on linear planning and control. Instead, she advocates for an experimental mindset — treating decisions as small, testable hypotheses rather than fixed commitments. 

Central to the discussion is the concept of "tiny experiments": simple, repeatable actions that allow individuals to test ideas, gather feedback and iterate over time. Rather than relying on willpower or large-scale change, this approach focuses on building sustainable habits through continuous learning. 

Dr Anne-Laure highlights the importance of paying attention not just to external results, but also to internal signals such as energy, motivation and emotional response. She also emphasises the role of workplace culture, arguing that environments that encourage curiosity, openness and experimentation make it easier for individuals to adapt and thrive. 

The episode also explores the role of AI as a thinking partner — a tool that can help surface patterns and insights, rather than replace human judgment. 

Episode six turns to the future of cities, with Professor Carlo Ratti exploring how data, sensing technologies and design can create more responsive and human-centred urban environments. 

Drawing on global projects and research, Ratti examines how cities can adapt to challenges such as climate change, population growth and shifting patterns of movement. From flood mitigation in Venice to the use of real-time data in urban planning, the conversation highlights how "cyber-physical" systems can respond dynamically to local conditions. 

A key theme is the role of data in shaping decision-making. Ratti argues that cities can use real-time insights to identify where interventions are most needed, from green space to infrastructure. However, he emphasises that this must be balanced with strong principles around privacy and trust — including anonymisation and transparency about how data is collected and used. 

The episode also explores how technology can both support and disrupt public life. While digital tools offer new ways to understand and manage cities, they can also reduce spontaneous interaction and community connection. As a result, Ratti argues that public space must be intentionally designed and protected as a cornerstone of urban life. 

“What stands out in these conversations is how progress often comes from small, thoughtful changes — whether that’s experimenting with how we work or rethinking how cities respond to real-world conditions,” said Rebeca Obregon, President of Farnell Global. “Technology plays a role in both, but its value comes from how it is applied in context — supporting better decisions, better environments and ultimately better outcomes for people.” 

All episodes of Top Tech Voices are now available to stream. Listeners can watch and subscribe via Farnell's YouTube channel or Spotify. 

For more information, visit farnell.com/top-tech-voices. 

Farnell has announced the immediate availability of the newly launched PIC32CM PL10 microcontrollers (MCUs) from Microchip Technology. As the latest addition to Microchip’s PIC32C family of Arm® Cortex®-M0+ core devices, the PL10 family is engineered to meet the growing demand for versatile, low-power MCUs capable of handling modern embedded tasks. 

The PIC32CM PL10 MCUs deliver the performance of a 32-bit architecture while preserving the low power consumption, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness that developers of 8-bit systems rely on. With pin-to-pin compatibility, these devices provide engineers with a straightforward migration path to upgrade performance without the need for complex, costly board redesigns. They are ideally suited for high-volume applications, including industrial control, building automation, consumer appliances, power tools, and sensor-based systems. 

Key Features and design benefits: 

• 5V Operation with Multi-Voltage I/O (MVIO): Operating from 1.8V to 5.5V, the PL10 features integrated MVIO, allowing simultaneous connection to devices operating at different voltage levels. This eliminates the need for external level-shifters in mixed-voltage systems, significantly reducing Bill of Materials (BOM) costs, saving board space, and simplifying designs in high-noise environments like industrial automation and IoT.
• Core Independent Peripherals (CIPs) with Advanced Touch: Equipped with rich hardware peripherals, a Peripheral Touch Controller (PTC), and a 12-bit ADC, the PL10 executes time-critical, repetitive tasks autonomously. By offloading deterministic tasks from the CPU, the PL10 improves real-time performance, lowers power consumption, and frees up processing headroom—critical for responsive touch interfaces and precise analogue measurements.
• AI-Assisted Development & Broad Toolchain Support: The PL10 is supported by the MPLAB® AI Coding Assistant, providing context-aware code generation and real-time product insights. The devices boast broad third-party tool compatibility, including Microsoft VS Code, IAR Systems, Arm Keil, SEGGER, Zephyr, and MikroElektronika. 

“Farnell is proud to offer the PIC32CM PL10 MCUs as part of our expanding Microchip portfolio, giving engineers immediate access to these cutting-edge devices with full technical support,” said Jose Lok, Global Product Category Director – Onboard Components & SBC at Farnell. “The PL10's pin-to-pin compatibility and broad IDE support make it an ideal choice for designers looking to upgrade to 32-bit performance without redesigning their existing workflow.” 

“The PL10 family represents our unified MCU strategy, offering AVR pin compatibility, robust safety compliance, and AI-driven development tools to meet evolving market demands,” said Greg Robinson, Corporate Vice President of Microchip's MCU, WSG, and DevTools Business Units.  

He further added, “Microchip is preparing to introduce a range of new microcontrollers over the next 12 to 18 months, spanning from entry-level to AI-capable devices, reinforcing our commitment to a comprehensive MCU portfolio.” 

The Microchip PIC32CM PL10 microcontrollers are now available from stock for fast, global delivery from Farnell in EMEA, Newark in North America, and element14 in APAC. 

Farnell has expanded its industrial automation offering with the addition of Lovato Electric’s comprehensive portfolio, including contactors, switch disconnectors, and motor protection relays — all now available for immediate shipping. 

David Whitby, Managing Director, Lovato Electric Ltd, said, “I am delighted that Farnell and Lovato Electric have begun this collaboration. Together, we are bringing our industrial automation and energy management solutions to a wider global customer base.” 

The partnership enables Farnell to offer a more holistic suite of products—spanning power management, safety, control, signalling, and circuit protection. Because Lovato designs and builds its components in-house, Farnell can ensure high-quality, integrated solutions for complex industrial needs. 

Farnell Vice President Global Product, Andy Weatherill, added: “We are constantly evolving our industrial offering to meet the needs of our customers. Partnering with Lovato enables us to offer a comprehensive package of hardware, software, and technical support. This shifts our role from a traditional distributor to a true technical partner, offering end-to-end solutions in energy management and industrial control.” 

Customers also benefit from Lovato’s commitment to innovation. With a century of expertise and an accredited in-house R&D lab, Lovato brings high-performance products to market rapidly. Farnell customers now have early access to these advancements in motor control, safety relays, and moulded case circuit breakers. 

For more than 100 years, Lovato has designed and manufactured low voltage electrical devices for industrial applications. The company today blends electronics, automation and software to provide a wide range of products is designed, industrialised, tested and built by Lovato to the highest quality standards. A team of designers and researchers use the most modern software tools available, and an accredited internal test laboratory carries out tests according to the highest national and international standards. 

For more information visit https://uk.farnell.com/b/lovato  

Farnell's Top Tech Voices podcast continues its second season with two new episodes exploring how neuroscience, AI and health technology are reshaping the way people think, behave and live. 

The latest conversations feature renowned neuroscientist and Professor of Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience Anil Seth, and Dr Julia Jones, a neuroscientist, former Olympic psychologist and founder of health‑tech start‑up Validity. Both offer a human-first perspective on the future of innovation. 

In episode three, Neuro-tech and Brain Interfaces, Professor Anil Seth explores one of the most profound scientific questions of our time: how the brain creates conscious experience. 

Seth describes perception as a “controlled hallucination”, where the brain actively constructs reality by combining predictions with sensory input — challenging the idea of a single, objective experience of the world and explaining why individuals can perceive the same reality in different ways. 

The episode also examines the rapid development of brain–computer interfaces (BCIs), which are already transforming treatment for conditions such as epilepsy and paralysis. While acknowledging their potential, Seth raises important ethical questions — particularly around accuracy, misuse and the emerging need to protect “privacy of thought” as neural data becomes more accessible. 

Reflecting on artificial intelligence, Seth cautions against designing systems to replicate or replace human thinking. Instead, he advocates for technologies that complement human intelligence, warning that over-standardisation risks creating a “mental monoculture” that diminishes diversity of thought. 

The conversation concludes with a call to engineers and technologists to rethink the brain not as a digital machine but as a dynamic, energy-efficient biological system—a shift that could inspire more sustainable, human-centred innovation. 

Episode four, Biohacking and Human Enhancement, turns to the future of preventative health, with Dr Julia Jones offers a grounded perspective on how technology can support long-term wellbeing. 

Drawing on more than three decades of research, Jones challenges the growing trend of "extreme optimisation" often associated with biohacking. Instead, she advocates for a more sustainable approach focused on extending healthspan — the number of years people live in good health — rather than simply increasing lifespan. 

The episode highlights how behaviour change is rooted in neuroscience. Jones explains that forming lasting habits requires consistent repetition over time to physically rewire neural pathways — helping explain why many traditional health interventions fail to deliver lasting results. 

She also examines the role of music as a biological tool, drawing on research from elite sport and military environments to demonstrate how sound can regulate mood, enhance performance and support nervous system function — with growing applications in areas such as dementia care. A central theme of the discussion is compassion. Jones argues that modern environments are often misaligned with human biology and that shifting from blame to understanding can significantly improve health outcomes. 

Looking ahead, she outlines a vision for health technology that combines data with human connection — using AI to support coaches, personalise interventions and scale engagement, while preserving the accountability and empathy that drive real behavioural change. 

"As technology becomes more embedded in how we think, work and live, innovation must remain grounded in human needs," said Rebeca Obregon, President of Farnell Global. "These conversations highlight an important shift — from building technology for efficiency alone, to designing systems that support how people actually think, behave and stay healthy. Whether it's AI or health technology, the opportunity lies in using innovation to enhance human potential." 

The latest episodes of Top Tech Voices are now available to stream, continuing the series' focus on human-centred innovation across AI, health and emerging technologies. 

Further episodes will be released in the coming weeks. Listeners can subscribe for updates via Farnell's YouTube channel or Spotify. 

For more information, visit farnell.com/top-tech-voices. 

element14, an Avnet Community, has launched INSPIRE HER FUTURE, a global celebration recognizing women driving progress across science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Women are building, testing, teaching and advancing technology worldwide, yet many of their contributions go unrecognized. INSPIRE HER FUTURE aims to highlight their work, encourage more women to share their experiences and create a global collection of stories that reflect the diversity of the STEM community.

“Women are shaping the future of engineering and technology every day, often without visibility or recognition,” said Andreea Teodorescu, Global Director of Product Marketing & element14 Community. “By sharing these stories, we’re creating representation, building connection and helping ensure the next generation sees a place for themselves in STEM.”

The initiative invites women at all stages of their careers, including students, early‑career engineers, makers, educators and experienced professionals, to share their journeys. Submissions may include career paths, projects, challenges, lessons learned and advice for those entering the field.

The celebration centres women’s voices and is open to everyone through nominations and ally participation. Community members, colleagues, mentors and allies are encouraged to nominate women who inspire them through leadership, creativity, curiosity or impact. With permission, selected nominees may be featured or invited to participate.

Selected submissions will be recognised across the Student, Early Career and Professional/Educator categories, with standout contributions featured on the element14 Community and awarded prizes. Entries will be evaluated by a panel of community judges based on quality, insight and impact. Terms and conditions apply.

To submit a story or nominate someone who inspires you, visit https://community.element14.com/p/inspire-her-future.

Farnell has signed a worldwide distribution agreement with Same Sky, a manufacturer specialising in an ever-expanding range of product technologies including interconnect, audio, thermal management, motion and control, relay, sensor, and switch solutions. 

This partnership expands the global availability of Same Sky’s portfolio, ensuring our customers have immediate access to high-performance component technologies. By integrating Same Sky’s technical depth into Farnell’s global infrastructure, the collaboration supports high-stakes design challenges in several key sectors: 

• Thermal Management for EV Charging: High-efficiency cooling solutions essential for rapid-charging infrastructure
• Audio for Electric Mobility: Reliable audio systems engineered for the unique acoustic demands of electric two- and three-wheelers
• Motion Control in Robotics: High-precision AMT encoders designed for seamless integration into drone payload systems
• Power Efficiency in HVAC: High-reliability power relays optimized for energy-efficient climate control architectures 

Gareth James, Product Category Director, Interconnect & Electromechanical at Farnell said, "By adding their solutions to our global stock, we are ensuring our customers have the high-performance components necessary to innovate within a wide range of markets, including EV, factory automation, robotics, HVAC, medical, and more.” 

This partnership with Farnell strengthens Same Sky’s commitment to expanding regional distribution, inventory availability, and local support for customers across Europe, Asia, and the Americas,” said Dave Carroll, Vice President of Product Management at Same Sky. “By working closely with one of the industry’s leading high-service distributors, we’re improving access to Same Sky solutions and helping engineers move from design-in to production with greater speed and confidence.” 

Customers can now browse and purchase Same Sky’s portfolio via Farnell in EMEA, Newark in North America, and element14 in Asia-Pacific.  

Farnell EMEA welcomed engineers from across the global electronics industry at Embedded World 2026, delivering a programme of expert-led workshops, live demonstrations, and community-led activities focused on accelerating Edge AI and embedded development. 

Across the three-day event in Nuremberg, Farnell hosted 12 interactive workshops, welcoming engineers to hands-on sessions, and distributed Renesas RA0E3 development kits, enabling attendees to continue experimenting with Edge AI projects beyond the exhibition. These sessions were delivered in collaboration with Avnet, combining Farnell’s high-service expertise with Avnet’s global scale to support engineers from prototype through to production. 

The workshops showcased practical applications of Edge AI using a range of development platforms, including Raspberry Pi 5, Arduino UNO Q SBC, the STM32MP135F Discovery Kit, and NXP FRDM i.MX 93 Development Board, the Infineon PSOC Edge E84 AI Evaluation Kit and the Microchip PolarFire® SoC, demonstrating how engineers can rapidly prototype and deploy AI-enabled applications at the edge. 

Andrew Weatherill, VP Global Product at Farnell, said: “Embedded World provides a valuable opportunity to engage directly with engineers and understand the challenges they’re solving. This year, we saw strong demand for hands-on learning, with workshops fully booked and engineers actively exploring real-world Edge AI applications using the latest development platforms. Working in collaboration with Avnet, we’re combining Farnell’s high-service expertise with global scale to help engineers move more quickly from prototype to production.” 

Farnell also highlighted its DevKit HQ initiative, a dedicated destination designed to simplify the discovery and evaluation of development kits, single-board computers and technical resources for embedded and AI development. The platform brings together development tools, documentation and application guidance in one place, helping engineers move more quickly from idea to prototype. 

Community engagement was another key highlight of the stand. Visitors met members of the element14 community and engineering creator Clem Mayer, host of element14 presents, while exploring initiatives including the RoadTest review programme and engineering design challenges. 

During the event, Farnell presented the element14 Community Supplier Engagement Excellence Award to Würth Elektronik in recognition of its active support of the element14 community, regularly engaging with engineers and contributing helpful insights across community discussions. 

Through its presence at Embedded World 2026, Farnell reinforced its commitment to supporting engineers at every stage of the design journey — combining components, development platforms, technical resources and community collaboration to help transform ideas into real-world solutions. 

For more information about future events, visit uk.farnell.com/mc/farnell-exhibitions. 

element14, an Avnet Community, has launched its latest design competition, inviting engineers, makers and technology enthusiasts to develop smart industry projects focused on production monitoring, uptime optimization and product testing.

Selected participants will design and build a prototype or test rig using a kit of components from leading suppliers. Entries will be judged on creativity and the imaginative use of component features.

The challenge centers on adding intelligence to production environments. Example project concepts include miniature production line demonstrations, open‑source conveyor systems, inventory management tools, production line monitoring, predictive maintenance, RFID tracking and quality control solutions.

“To us, smart industry is about applying creativity and practical engineering to real‑world manufacturing challenges,” said Andreea Teodorescu, Global Director of Product Marketing and element14 Community. “This challenge gives our members the opportunity to explore industrial innovation while sharing their ideas and learning from one another.”

To be eligible for prizes, participants must document their build process and publish a final project blog on the element14 Community, clearly highlighting the sponsor components used.

The first-place winner will receive an Multicomp Pro MP720013 Oscilloscope. Second place will receive a Multicomp Pro MP750511 Waveform Generator, and third place will receive a Multicomp Pro MP3055 Bench Digital Multimeter. All participants who successfully complete the challenge will also receive a Multicomp Pro AC/DC Voltage Clamp Meter.

Applications are open now through 12 April and participants will have until 21 June to complete and submit their projects.

For more information and to register, visit: https://community.element14.com/on-the-line.

Farnell has signed a new distribution agreement with Hongfa, a leading manufacturer of relays and electromechanical components. The agreement comes as demand for high-performance, reliable relay solutions continues to grow across industrial automation, automotive, energy, and smart building applications. The partnership will introduce high-quality relay and switching technologies to Farnell customers across EMEA, expanding choice and improving availability for design, maintenance and repair engineers. 

Hongfa Europe GmbH will work closely with Farnell to support the rollout, ensuring efficient service, streamlined product introductions and reliable technical support ahead of the full range becoming available online in early 2026. 

The agreement gives customers access to Hongfa’s most in-demand product lines, including power, signal, automotive, industrial and solar relays, alongside an extended portfolio of relay sockets, low-voltage devices, connectors, film capacitors and current sensors.  

This partnership supports Farnell’s strategy to expand its electromechanical portfolio and enhance choice for engineers across EMEA. 

Customer benefits include: 

• Range: Broader availability of reliable, high-quality relay solutions.
• Access: Easier online ordering once live.
• Speed: Fast delivery through Farnell’s EMEA logistics network.
• Expertise: Access to Hongfa’s established relay engineering teams. 

Andrew Weatherill, VP Global Product, Farnell Global, said: “We are excited to welcome Hongfa to Farnell’s electromechanical portfolio for EMEA. Their strong reputation for engineering excellence and high-performance relay technologies makes them an ideal addition to our line card. This partnership expands the choice of high-quality relay solutions available to engineers across Europe, supported by fast delivery and trusted technical support.” 

Daniel Bayer, Sales Manager Distribution, BeNeLux, East Europe + Baltic, Hongfa added: “We are delighted to partner with Farnell to make our comprehensive product range more easily accessible to customers across Europe. This collaboration is an important step in strengthening Hongfa’s market presence and providing faster, more efficient service to engineers and purchasing professionals.” 

Hongfa products are available to purchase on Farnell’s EMEA storefront: uk.farnell.com/b/hongfa   

Farnell has announced the availability of a new range of NI PXI hardware from Emerson, designed to lower the cost barrier for high-performance automated testing. 

This expansion provides engineers with an affordable entry point to the industry-standard PXI platform while maintaining the precision, synchronisation and robust software integration that are hallmarks of NI technology 

"Our partnership with Farnell continues to be a cornerstone of Emerson’s mission to deliver scalable, high-performance test solutions to engineering teams worldwide," said Brandon Treece, Director of NI PXI Product Marketing at Emerson. "With the launch of our new, affordable NI PXI hardware, we’re making it easier than ever to build adaptable, cost-effective automated test systems—delivering software-driven flexibility, measurement precision, and system scalability to drive innovation forward." 

The new hardware suite, optimised for use with LabVIEW, InstrumentStudio, and TestStand, includes: 

• NI PXIe-5108 Oscilloscopes: 4- and 8-channel options with 100 MHz bandwidth and 14-bit resolution for high-density measurements.
• NI PXIe-1081 Hybrid Chassis: cost-effective 8-slot chassis optimised for high-channel-count, low-throughput applications.
• NI PXIe-8842 / 8862 Controllers: simplified embedded controllers supporting Windows 11 and NI Linux Real-Time for flexible system integration.
• NI PXIe-6381 / 6383 DAQ Modules: first 18-bit PXI Express multifunction I/O devices, offering precise, low-noise voltage measurements. 

Anthony Coletto, Vice President, Supplier Management at Farnell said: “These new NI PXI modules remove the trade-off between power and price. By lowering the cost of entry, we are helping more engineers deploy the industry’s most trusted synchronisation and software tools for their automated test systems.” 

The new NI PXI hardware range is available to order from Farnell in EMEA, Newark in North America, and element14 in APAC. 

Farnell's award-winning podcast series Top Tech Voices continues its second season with two thought-provoking episodes examining how technology influences both human wellbeing and planetary sustainability. 

The opening conversations bring together neuroscientist Dr. Jack Lewis and environmental innovator Fionn Ferreira — two voices approaching technology from very different, yet equally human, perspectives. 

In episode one, Mental Health & Technology: Navigating the Digital Mind, Dr Jack Lewis explores how digital tools are reshaping cognitive health. 

Rather than framing technology as inherently positive or negative, Lewis presents a more nuanced view: technology's impact depends on how we use it. While digital tools increase efficiency and expand access to information, excessive screen time can displace the very behaviours that support long-term brain health — including movement, deep focus and face-to-face connection. 

Drawing on neuroscience research, Lewis explains how exercise supports memory and resilience by releasing Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), and how uninterrupted social interaction strengthens neural pathways linked to empathy and understanding. His message is not about rejecting devices, but about using them deliberately. 

The episode encourages professionals and organisations alike to consider how digital environments can be designed and managed to support wellbeing rather than undermine it. 

Episode two shifts focus to environmental technology, featuring award-winning inventor Fionn Ferreira. 

Raised in West Cork, Ireland, Ferreira began investigating microplastic pollution as a youngster after observing contamination along his local shoreline. With limited laboratory access, he built his own scientific equipment — including a spectrometer constructed from a Raspberry Pi, webcam and Lego — to analyse water samples. 

His research led to the development of a magnetic method to remove microplastics using specially engineered ferrofluids. The innovation gained international attention and support, including backing connected to initiatives highlighted at the World Economic Forum. 

In the conversation, Ferreira discusses the realities of scaling environmental innovation, from laboratory prototype to industrial application. He emphasises that invention is rarely a solo pursuit; meaningful progress requires collaboration, storytelling and persistence. 

"Top Tech Voices is about bringing credible, expert perspectives into the conversation around technology," said Rebeca Obregon, President of Farnell Global. "These episodes reflect the breadth of innovation shaping our world — from understanding how digital habits affect our brains to developing practical solutions for global environmental challenges. Technology has extraordinary potential, and through this series, we're exploring how it can be harnessed responsibly to deliver meaningful impact." 

Together, the first two episodes demonstrate the range of discussions shaping season two of Top Tech Voices. From cognitive resilience in a digital age to scalable environmental innovation, the series continues to explore how technology can address real-world challenges when guided by insight and intention. 

Both episodes are now available to stream with new episodes releasing in the coming weeks. 

Listeners can watch and subscribe via Farnell’s YouTube channel. 

For more information, visit farnell.com/top-tech-voices. 

element14, an Avnet Community, in collaboration with ADI, has launched a new design challenge inviting engineers and makers to develop advanced security and surveillance prototypes.

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype or test rig utilising ADI’s MAX32630FTHR, a versatile development platform, and Würth Elektronik’s SMD LEDs with an integrated WL-ICLED controller. The challenge encourages creative applications of these components to deliver innovative security features.

Selected challengers will receive a free kit of components, with ADI’s MAX32630FTHR as the core element, to assist in building their prototypes. Each participant will document the build process and final outcome through blogs on the element14 Community platform.

Examples of potential applications include facial recognition door entry systems, voice and face detection, environmental monitoring, crowd sentiment analysis, break-in detection and remote security sentry solutions.

“Through this challenge, we’re inviting our global community to showcase creativity and problem-solving in the field of security and surveillance,” said Andreea Teodorescu, Global Director of Product Marketing & element14 Community. “It’s an opportunity for participants to learn, share ideas, and demonstrate how innovative thinking can address real-world safety challenges.”

“We’re excited to collaborate with the element14 Community on a challenge that inspires creativity and problem-solving,” said Stephane Di Vito, ADI Distinguished Engineer, Product Security. “This initiative brings together passionate designers and engineers to explore new ideas and develop solutions that can make security smarter and more effective.”

Prizes will be awarded for the most outstanding projects. The first-place winner will receive a 13-piece SimpliSafe Home Security System and a Multicomp Pro Hot Air Rework Station. The second-place winner will receive the same SimpliSafe system plus a multi screwdriver set, while the third-place winner will receive the SimpliSafe system. All participants who complete the challenge will receive a MultiComp Pro Multimeter Set.

For more information and to register, visit https://community.element14.com/challenges-projects/design-challenges/smart-security-and-surveillance/.

Farnell EMEA, a leading distributor of electronic components, products and solutions, has announced its return to Embedded World 2026, taking place 10 – 12 March 2026 at Nürnberg Messe, Germany. Visitors can find Farnell in Hall 3A, Stand 119, where the company will showcase a packed programme of hands-on workshops, live demonstrations and community-led activity designed to help engineers move from idea to implementation faster. 

This year’s presence places a strong emphasis on practical enablement, with engineers invited to explore the latest developments in Edge AI, embedded intelligence, IoT and connectivity through real-world applications and guided, interactive experiences. 

Across the three-day event, Farnell will host a series of expert-led workshops, each supported by free development kits, including: 

• Edge AI Made Easy using Raspberry Pi 5 with Ubuntu and AWS IoT Greengrass nucleus lite
• Bringing AI to Life with Arduino UNO Q SBC
• Vision AI with AWS IoT using the STM32MP135F Discovery Kit
• Vision AI with the NXP FRDM i.MX 93 Development Board
• Edge AI with Infineon PSOC™ Edge E84 AI Evaluation Kit
• AI and FPGA acceleration with the Microchip PolarFire® SoC 

In addition, as part of the DevKit HQ campaign, Farnell will showcase live product demonstrations that highlight how engineers can build, deploy, and securely connect Edge AI projects using a comprehensive portfolio of development kits and single-board computers. The live demonstrations will feature technologies from leading suppliers, including Raspberry Pi, Arduino, Analog Devices, NXP, Toradex, STMicroelectronics, and NI. 

Attendees will also have the opportunity to secure free early access to a Renesas development kit, an upcoming, cost-effective, entry-level fast prototyping platform within the Renesas RA family, to be officially announced soon. Only 300 kits will be available during the event. 

Andrew Weatherill, VP Global Product at Farnell, who will be attending Embedded World, commented: “Embedded World is a key moment to connect directly with engineers and understand the challenges they’re solving today. Our focus this year is firmly on hands-on enablement — giving engineers the tools, guidance and real-world examples they need to get started with technologies like Edge AI and IoT quickly and confidently.” 

Community engagement will also play a central role at the stand. Visitors can meet members of the element14 community, take part in challenges and RoadTests, and connect with engineer and creator Mayer Makes from the element14 presents YouTube Channel, who will share insights into hands-on engineering, prototyping, and learning-by-doing. An interactive AI photobooth will allow attendees to create their own personalised AI avatar. 

Through its Embedded World 2026 programme, Farnell continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting engineers at every stage of the design journey — combining products, expertise, training and community to turn innovation into reality. 

For more information and to register for Farnell workshops, visit: uk.farnell.com/mc/farnell-exhibitions/2026/embedded-world.

Farnell has released a new unboxing video showcasing the NEVB-MTR1-KIT1 motor control evaluation kit. The kit is built by leading semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia and developed in partnership with Würth Elektronik. 

Bringing together Nexperia’s advanced semiconductor technology with Würth Elektronik’s high-performance passive components provides engineers with a ready-made platform to accelerate motor controller development. The video gives engineers and developers insights into the kit’s design, features, and real-world benefits. 

“We’re proud to showcase the result of a powerful collaboration between trusted partners,” said Jose Lok, Global Product Category Director – Onboard Components & SBC, Farnell. “This unboxing represents more than just a product. It reflects the strength of our supplier network, a shared commitment to excellence, and the seamless integration of expertise across every stage of development. From packaging to presentation, what you’ll see here is the outcome of aligned values, rigorous standards, and a partnership built on trust.” 

The comprehensive kit includes a 3-phase inverter board, a motor controller board, a Leonardo R3 microcontroller development board, pre-wired motor connections, and a brushless DC (BLDC) motor. Each board has been designed with precision and reliability in mind, and the unboxing video highlights its high build quality, robust technical performance, and extensive design support for developers. 

“Partnering with Würth Elektronik allows us to combine the best of both worlds, high-quality passive components and advanced power semiconductors, on a single board,” said Kinga Czutro, Senior Corporate Account Manager Distribution at Nexperia. “The board is not just a development tool. It’s a practical platform for enabling engineers and innovators to accelerate innovation at the core of their designs and move from prototype to production with confidence.” 

The NEVB-MTR1-KIT1 motor driver evaluation kit offers a modular, developer-friendly platform that adapts to diverse motors, control algorithms, and test environments. Its flexibility accelerates motor controller development and enables rapid iteration, testing, and optimisation, helping developers speed up time to market. The kit can be configured for use in under two minutes and is conveniently powered via USB-C.  

Würth Elektronik supplied a broad range of passive components for the kit — including inductors, ferrite beads, capacitors, and connectors — all selected for their reliability and performance in demanding motor control applications. A standout feature is the integration of high-current connectors, enabling evaluations up to 1 kW at 48 V. 

“We’re not just building components together, we’re building ecosystems that enable the development and operational excellence of smarter, faster, and more efficient solutions for every industry,” said Nicola Wieland, Export |Distribution Marketing Specialist for Würth Elektronik. 

Key applications for the kit include use with 12–48V power tools and cordless equipment plus electric forklift trucks. The unboxing video is available via Farnell’s YouTube channel.  

Engineers across EMEA are increasingly embedding artificial intelligence (AI) into products being shipped to customers, as AI moves decisively from experimentation into real-world production, according to the latest Avnet Insights 2026 Survey. 

The annual global survey gathered responses from approximately 1,200 engineers worldwide, providing a representative view of how AI adoption is evolving across different markets and industrial environments. Across the EMEA region, the findings reflect a diverse landscape, where AI adoption is accelerating at different speeds depending on industrial focus, regulatory environments and production maturity. 

Globally, more than half of engineers surveyed (56%) say they are currently shipping products with AI incorporated into their designs, representing a 33% year-on-year increase. Adoption levels vary by region, reflecting different industrial priorities, regulatory environments and production lifecycles. For example, 41% of respondents in Germany report shipping AI-enabled products today, suggesting a more selective, industry-led approach, while other regions are accelerating at different rates. 

Across EMEA, engineers remain cautiously optimistic about market conditions, supported by faster production schedules and continued customer demand. At the same time, the survey highlights a consistent set of challenges organisations are working through as AI becomes more deeply embedded in product design and development. 

Data quality (46%), integration with existing tools (38%) and cost (37%) are cited as the main design challenges when integrating AI into products. From an operational perspective, continuous learning and maintenance (54%) and sustainability (43%) are top considerations as AI-enabled systems scale into full production. 

The survey also points to growing momentum behind multi-modal AI, with engineers increasingly combining Edge AI and machine learning (ML) to deliver greater functionality, efficiency and value. Nearly all respondents (96%) expect AI-powered tools to significantly influence product design and development over the next three to five years. 

“AI has clearly moved beyond proof-of-concept for engineers across EMEA regions,” said Dan Ford, VP Sales and Services EMEA, Farnell. “What we’re seeing now is a focus on scaling AI responsibly — balancing innovation with data integrity, system integration and sustainability as AI-enabled products move into production.” 

The findings highlight how AI is becoming a standard part of product development across EMEA, with regional differences shaping how the technology is adopted. These are expected to resonate strongly with engineers and manufacturers across EMEA as AI, automation and sustainability remain key priorities in 2026. 

The full Avnet Insights 2026 AI whitepaper is available to download via Farnell’s AI Hub, where engineers can also discover how to accelerate their projects and access solutions, platforms, and resources to support AI adoption in design and production. 

German manufacturers are approaching artificial intelligence (AI) with characteristic precision and long-term thinking, according to the latest Avnet Insights 2026 Survey. The annual global survey gathered responses from approximately 200 engineers in Germany, providing a snapshot of AI adoption across the country’s manufacturing and technology sectors. The findings come at a time when manufacturers are increasingly focused on balancing digital transformation with energy efficiency, regulatory compliance and long-term industrial competitiveness. 

The survey shows that AI is now firmly established in product development worldwide, with more than half of engineers globally shipping AI-enabled products. In Germany, engineers are progressing with a measured, industry-led approach, prioritising reliability, data integrity and energy efficiency as AI adoption continues to scale. 

German respondents demonstrate above-average use of machine learning (ML) compared with global figures, reflecting the country’s strong focus on industrial automation, data-driven manufacturing and applied AI use cases. At the same time, energy consumption and sustainability are more prominent in Germany than in many other regions, underscoring the importance of responsible AI integration aligned with environmental and regulatory expectations. 

Globally, more than half of the engineers surveyed say they are shipping products with AI incorporated into their designs. In Germany, around four in ten respondents report shipping AI-enabled products today, reflecting a more selective, industrial-led approach to adoption. 

“German engineers are clearly focused on building AI solutions that are robust, efficient and sustainable,” said Dan Ford, VP Sales and Services EMEA, Farnell. “The findings show a strong foundation in place, with clear opportunities to accelerate AI adoption in ways that support long-term industrial competitiveness. As an Avnet company, Farnell supports engineers at every stage of the product lifecycle, helping translate AI ambition into scalable, production-ready solutions.” 

Across all regions, engineers identify key challenges when embedding AI into products: 

• Data quality (46%)
• Integration with existing tools (38%)
• Cost (37%) 

From an operational perspective, engineers highlight the following as the top considerations as AI-enabled systems move into full production: 

• Continuous learning and maintenance (54%)
• Sustainability (43%) 

Despite ongoing global uncertainty, German engineers remain confident in their operating environment. Respondents in Germany are among the least concerned globally about supply chain disruptions, indicating resilience and stability in manufacturing planning. 

Looking ahead, many engineers surveyed expect AI-powered tools to significantly influence product design and development over the next three to five years, presenting an opportunity for German industry to build on its strengths in engineering excellence, industrial expertise and sustainable innovation. 

The Avnet Insights 2026 Survey was conducted among 1,200 engineers worldwide, with around 200 respondents per region, including Germany. Participants represent a broad mix of software engineers and engineering leaders working across technology, industrial and manufacturing environments. 

The full Avnet Insights 2026 AI whitepaper is available to download via Farnell’s AI Hub, where engineers can also discover how to accelerate their projects and access solutions, platforms, and resources to support AI adoption in design and production. 

Farnell, a global distributor of electronic components, products and solutions, has today announced the return of its award-winning podcast series, Top Tech Voices, with the launch of season two. 

Following the success of its previous season, Top Tech Voices returns with a renewed focus on how technology serves people — highlighting innovation that improves lives, protects what matters, and addresses real human challenges. The new season brings together leading thinkers, technologists and industry experts for in-depth conversations on the ideas shaping our future. 

Episode one, Mental Health & Technology: Navigating the Digital Mind, has been released today and explores the intersection between neuroscience, wellbeing and the digital world. The episode features neuroscientist, author and broadcaster Dr Jack Lewis, who examines how technology can both support and challenge mental health, and what individuals and organisations can do to optimise cognitive performance in an increasingly connected world. 

Georgia Lewis-Anderson will once again host the series, guiding discussions across six episodes that cover topics including biohacking and human enhancement, smart cities, work–tech–life balance, sustainable technology, and neuroscience.  

“When we launched Top Tech Voices, our goal was to create meaningful conversations that went beyond products and specifications,” said Rebeca Obregon, President of Farnell Global. “Season two builds on that success by exploring how technology can enable people, communities and better outcomes — because innovation matters most when it has a positive human impact.” 

Top Tech Voices has been recognised for its thoughtful, insight-led approach to technology storytelling, providing a platform for credible expert voices and balanced discussion. The second season continues this editorial approach, prioritising real-world insight over promotion and positioning technology as an enabler rather than the headline.  

To mark the launch of season two, Farnell has also released an introductory video message from Rebeca Obregon, setting the tone for the conversations ahead. 

New episodes of Top Tech Voices: Season Two will be released every few weeks. Audiences can follow Farnell on social media and subscribe to its YouTube channel to stay up to date and access new episodes as they launch. 

For more information, visit farnell.com/top-tech-voices.