Electronic components distributor Digi-Key Electronics has expanded its offerings to include the Taoglas custom antenna builder, which provides the freedom to order easily and quickly custom-tailored antennas.

Irish firm Taoglas specialises in antenna designs and the custom antenna builder changes how device OEMs, enterprises and public safety organisations order their antennas and get access to custom antenna designs. It eliminates some of the common pain points typically associated with custom designs and the overall ordering process.

With the antenna builder, Digi-Key’s customers can choose from a portfolio of antennas and will have the ability to select the type of antenna they want, along with the communication standards, frequency bands, mounting requirements, combination and colour and have it shipped within two days.

The builder provides a step-by-step intelligent web-based order form, allowing users to visualise the products as they are being constructed, to ensure they are getting exactly what they need for their job. Drawings and documentation can be downloaded immediately and they will get instant pricing. Built-in intelligence prevents incorrect cable and connector pairings from being selected.

After they have completed their purchase, the bespoke goods will be assembled immediately by Taoglas and typically shipped within 48 hours.

This expansion is part of Digi-Key’s marketplace initiative, broadening the selection of electronic components and making the distributor more of a one-stop shop.

“Digi-Key is delighted to add the Taoglas custom antenna builder to our marketplace,” said David Stein, vice president at Digi-Key. “This is one of the most powerful, intuitive tools for quick and easy antenna prototyping on the market and will ensure that our customers have the fastest time to market. We’re looking forward to the Taoglas custom antenna builder truly revolutionising how Digi-Key customers buy their custom antennas.”

Dermot O’Shea, co-CEO of Taoglas, added: “We’re thrilled to partner with Digi-Key on the integration of the Taoglas custom antenna builder with their world-leading distributor platform. This follows the successful launch of our custom RF cable builder. Time is the ultimate commodity, so we know engineers don’t have the time to waste on a lengthy ordering and design process. The Taoglas custom antenna builder is constantly being updated with our evolving product portfolio, making it as simple as possible to order custom antennas, while also allowing customers to experiment with the various options available.”