Molex LLC is a global leader in the manufacture of electronic, electrical, and fiber optic connectivity systems. Founded in 1938 by Frederick Krehbiel, the company has evolved from producing flowerpots and salt shakers to becoming a pioneering force in the interconnect industry. Molex is renowned for its innovative solutions that enable next-generation technology across various industries, including data communications, medical, industrial, automotive, and consumer electronics.
Molex was established in 1938 by Frederick Krehbiel, who developed a unique plastic material by combining asbestos tailings, coal tar pitch, and limestone. Initially, the company produced flowerpots and salt shakers. It later transitioned to manufacturing electrical connectors and sensors, supplying major companies like General Electric. Over the years, Molex has made significant advancements, such as introducing the first two-piece interconnect and chain-form terminals in the 1950s, and the KK® Modular Interconnect System in the 1970s. The company expanded globally, opening facilities in Ireland, China, and other locations. In 2006, Molex acquired Woodhead Industries, and in 2013, it was acquired by Koch Industries for $7.2 billion. Since then, Molex has continued to grow through strategic acquisitions, including Phillips-Medisize in 2016 and technology from Keyssa Inc. in 2021.
Molex operates across several key business segments:
Molex's core competencies include:
Molex is considered the second largest electronic connector company in the world. It has a strong market presence in the interconnect industry, with a history of pioneering solutions that have become industry standards, such as the Molex connector widely used in personal computing. The company's global footprint and diverse product range solidify its position as a leader in connectivity solutions.
Molex produces over 100,000 products, including a wide range of connectors, cable assemblies, fiber optic solutions, and other connectivity systems. The product catalog is extensive and tailored to various industries, with solutions for data centers, medical devices, industrial environments, automotive systems, and consumer electronics.
| Application Field | Products/Solutions | Features and Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Automotive | Connectors, harnesses, power systems | Enhances vehicle electronics reliability and supports advanced driving features |
| Telecommunications | Backplane connectors, high-speed cabling solutions | Facilitates high-capacity data transmission and reduces signal interference |
| Healthcare | Interconnect solutions, cable assemblies | Ensures safety and precision in medical equipment connectivity |
| Industrial Automation | Terminal blocks, heavy-duty connectors | Provides robust connections for high-performance and durability in demanding environments |
Molex has worked with several well-known clients, including:
