To ensure that active components are fully utilized and that the function of an electrical device is permanently guaranteed under its operating conditions, passive elements must also keep pace with developments. The table summarizes the focal points of their further development in terms of performance and information.

At the same time, of course, the conditions must be created to reduce the not uncommon supply bottlenecks and longer delivery times in this area. In this sense, entire active functional groups, such as cooling, also only have an indirect effect on the useful signals, but they effectively influence reliability, construction volume, load capacity, etc. Examples of progress are described below.

Capacitors

• Modular, organic double-layer capacitors with significantly higher energy density for high-power applications(http://www.wima.de)
• Higher power/storage density and extended service life for electrolytic capacitors, folkos, polymer and chip capacitors, also with improved cooling(http://www.we-online.de, http://www.ftcap.de)
• Smoothing and stabilizing DC link capacitors for frequency converters(http://www.ftcap.de)
• Film capacitors with higher switching frequency
• Tantalum chip capacitors for medical implants (wide voltage and operating temperature range, low leakage currents)

Connectors / terminals / distributors
In this category in particular, it becomes clear how design determines functionality. Simple, maintenance-free, tool-free, screwless connection technology with a high degree of protection is offered. This includes insulation displacement technology, wire-to-board connection via spring-cage system and plug-in contacts, as well as crimping.

Marshalling connector and potential distributor PTRV (space-saving with color coding system. © www.phoenixcontact.com

• Multifunctional, modular, combinable circular connectors in a housing with a high degree of protection for power, signal, Ethernet with a third mating state for test purposes and central locking; data, signals and power are transmitted via just one cable (M8 D-coded also PoE-capable http://www.harting.com, M23 hybrid www.phoenix-contact) in favor of high data rates of ever smaller network subscribers,
• miniaturized, rail-mountable terminal blocks for the benefit of customers dependent on mains connection conditions for disconnection, continuity, protective conductor (screw connection, push-in technology, www.phoenix-contact)
• Connectors with increased safety for high current(http://www.staubli.com) and DC use
• Connectors for particularly demanding environmental conditions (steam, heat, http://www.lappkabel.de), for a high number of plugs(http://www.harting.de)
• Maintenance-free conductor connection terminals with push-in technology for connecting conductors to busbars
• Small pitch connectors for electronic assemblies, also for SMD suitability(http://www.fischerelektronik.de)
• Terminal blocks with lever and push-button for improved handling(http://www.wago.com), for structured connection of signals in switch cabinets(http://www.weidmueller.de),
• Marshalling distributors/connectors or potential distributors for installations with high contact quality (push-in technology as a replacement for wire wrap etc.), for safe, tool-free wiring in confined spaces with color-coded assignment of conductor and terminal point, testing with commercially available test probes despite compact size.

For some versions, manufacturers offer a free, web-based configurator for terminal strips and their housings with prices for different service levels (e.g. assembly service "Configure to Order" from Weidmüller http://www.weidmueller.de).

RFID
Radio-frequency identification can be used to organize variant-diverse production in small quantities effectively and cost-effectively (www.siemens.de/rfid).

Networks, arrays, filters, ferrites

Focus of further development

• R/C combinations, thin and thick film arrays, resistor networks reduce power loss and space requirements/weight for control units(http://www.vishay.com)
• Current-spike-proof ferrites (e.g. for more reliable power supply units, http://www.we-online.de)
• Mains filters for frequency converters(http://www.abb.de).

Protective elements

• Protection with more sensitive, ceramic ceramic diodes, which are technically and economically more advantageous than semiconductor-based diodes (www. epcos.com)
• Thermally fused MOVs reliably protect AC systems against overtemperature, overvoltage and overcurrent(http://www.tycoelectronics.com)

Function groups

• Cooling units for enclosures with up to 60% reduction in energy consumption (Premiumline http://www.rittal.de), whereby the future will belong to water cooling
• Tailored measurement technology, such as thermal imaging cameras to increase supply reliability and detect faults in court if necessary
• Special test and inspection systems with specialized connectors (e.g. for control cabinets, http://www.phoenixcontact.com)

Accessories
Practical accessories such as stable, dimensionally versatile, dimensionally accurate wiring ducts, fastening elements, bushings, housings(http://www.obo.de, http://www.spelsberg.de) and the like are also essential for safe and trouble-free system operation. Of course, this also includes cables that combine cables for the power supply of various functional units such as motor, brake and data lines in a hybrid manner and work under harsh operating conditions if required (www.luetze.de/com).

Outlook
Costs and faults can be avoided by using the right passive components. Their cooperation with active elements guarantees that the entire system design functions as intended. However, a suboptimal circuit design cannot be compensated for by excellent components.