An actuator is a machine component responsible for moving and controlling a mechanism or system by opening a valve or carrying out a similar function. In essence, an actuator is a ‘mover.’ To function, an actuator requires a control signal and a source of energy. The control signal can be electric voltage or current, pneumatic or hydraulic fluid pressure, or even human power, and is relatively low energy. An actuator's energy sources can be electric current, hydraulic pressure, or pneumatic pressure. Upon reception of a control signal, the actuator responds by converting this energy into mechanical motion.

Keeping aircraft in good shape is a critical aspect of ensuring safe flight. As such, aircraft technicians and maintenance crews play a vital role. Their services, which include things like aircraft conservation and repair, require them to have a wealth of knowledge and experience in their work, including the tools used throughout the aircraft repair process. The maintenance process not only requires attention to detail and accuracy, but also the most advanced maintenance tools. In an industry as cutting-edge as aviation, aircraft mechanics have access to some of the highest quality equipment to perform maintenance work with. This blog will cover the seven most essential tools used in aircraft maintenance.

In order to perform proper maintenance and inspection, aviation technicians must be familiar with aircraft jacking. Jacking is the process of using a jack to lift an aircraft so it can be inspected and repaired. This blog will discuss the process of aircraft jacking in detail. However, because jacking procedures and safety precautions vary from aircraft to aircraft, this blog will discuss only generalized jacking procedures and precautions.

With a seemingly infinite selection of electrical connectors at your disposal, the process of finding the right one can be daunting. Differentiating between circular, header, and PCB receptacles, or power connectors, RF connectors, and more, can quickly become overwhelming. To help expedite the process, here are seven questions you should ask yourself when searching for a connector.

A printed circuit board (PCB) is a piece of electrical hardware that mechanically supports and connects electrical components using conductive tracks, pads, or other features etched from one or more sheets of copper laminate onto and/or between sheets of a non-conductive substrate. Components are soldered onto the PCB to connect them both electrically and mechanically. PCBs are used in all types of electronic products, as well as electrical products such as passive switch boxes.