Digi-Key at embedded world 2023 with Taoglas

Taoglas are a trusted provider of antennas and IoT components that aims to help solve complex engineering problems. Recently they have introduced three new invisible antennas supporting cellular, Wi-Fi, and GNSS technologies. With simple “peel and stick” mounting to any nonmetal surface such as plastic, glass, and screens, the paper thin, ultra-lightweight TFX series offers a clear alternative to standard opaque antennas for use in mobility, public infrastructure, medical devices, transportation, and emerging IoT applications.

The TFX62.A, TFX257.A, and TFX125.A can be used standalone or in a custom combination to enhance cellular, Wi-Fi, and GNSS antenna installations respectively. Each antenna comes with an adhesive applied and has an enclosed carrier terminated with a FAKRA connector for easy installation. The new series leverages a sub-mm thick hybrid transparent conductive film that offers designers an invisible antenna solution with the performance, reliability, and form factors of opaque antennas.

Where can this technology be used?

Taoglas believe that their new devices will see prominent use in a multitude of different scenarios, but most prominently will be used in areas such as:

• EV chargers and parking meters – On-screen placement eliminates the need for external antennas on metal enclosures
• Smart buildings – Antenna placement on windows with cable connections to routers hidden in the walls improves a building’s aesthetic
• Transportation vehicles – Covertly installed antennas replace large external antennas for in-vehicle connectivity

Healy commented: “Our engineering team sees this technology being used in the EV charging space, wearables, smart signage, digital signage, smart metering, smart housing, and also in the transportation sector.

“But of course, our customers I’m sure are going to be leading the way as well, they’ll be letting us know new products or applications where they can see this working as well.”

“At Taoglas, we continue to explore new manufacturing technologies and design techniques that help customers solve complex problems,” said Baha Badran, Global Head of Engineering at Taoglas. “Our patented flex PCB antennas pushed technology boundaries, and the use of transparent mediums is our next step in IoT and connectivity innovation.”