DRIVING INNOVATION AND PRECISION IN THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY
BUSINESS TIMES
I-PEX SINGAPORE
I-PEX SINGAPORE
I-PEX SINGAPORE
DRIVING INNOVATION AND PRECISION IN THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY
Project by: Malvern Kandemwa
Words by: Michelle Duncan
I-PEX Singapore Pte Ltd is a key regional hub for I-PEX Inc., a global leader in high-speed digital connectors and electronic components. Established in 1979 as the company’s first overseas corporation, I-PEX Singapore has played a pivotal role in the electronics industry in Southeast Asia. The company has evolved over the decades, expanding its production capabilities and keeping a strong focus on innovation and quality. Its Yishun Plant in Singapore is a cornerstone of its operations, enabling integrated
production of connectors and serving as a vital link in the global supply chain. This has reinforced Singapore’s reputation as a hub for high-tech electronics production.
Moreover, they have been involved in sustainability initiatives, such as taking part in programs like Green Compass, which helps companies manage carbon emissions, energy, and waste. These efforts align with Singapore’s broader goals of environmental sustainability and have encour-
aged other businesses in the industry to adopt similar practices. Through its focus on high-speed digital connectors, the company has also supported the development of innovative technologies in consumer electronics, enabling advancements in devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets. This has positioned Singapore as a key player in the global electronics supply chain.
Diana Peh, the Managing Director of I-PEX Singapore, has been instrumental in the company’s
growth and success. Starting her career at I-PEX in 1987 as an interpreter, she quickly took on added responsibilities, eventually rising through various management roles. In 2014, she became the Managing Director, overseeing the company’s operations and regional expansion. Under her leadership, I-PEX Singapore has navigated significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, while continuing to meet the demands of its global clients.
“We’re a supplier for many of the world’s leading PC manufacturers, and during the pandemic, we experienced a significant surge in demand. At the same
time, we faced strict restrictions on the number of employees allowed on-site,” she explains.
“Our operations were heavily impacted, and we had to work relentlessly to sustain our supply chains and fulfil customer demand.”
During the first lockdown in Singapore, they were allowed to have only 50 employees working on-site—far below the required workforce of around 225 needed to meet production targets. Consequently, the company had to engage in extensive negotiations with the authorities to gradually increase headcount and keep their production lines operational.
“OUR OPERATIONS WERE HEAVILY IMPACTED, AND WE HAD TO WORK RELENTLESSLY TO SUSTAIN OUR SUPPLY CHAINS AND FULFIL CUSTOMER DEMAND.”
Despite these challenges, the business achieved record-high sales, driven by the surge in demand for digital products during the pandemic. The increased reliance on remote work, online learning, and digital entertainment fuelled
QST is a trusted leader in high-speed precision metal stamping, delivering quality and reliable solutions for demanding engineering applications. With over three decades of experience, we transform ideas into solutions. Discover how QST became a strategic partner to I-PEX Singapore.
QST is a high-speed precision stamping house based in Singapore, with resources in South East Asia and China, with ability to support its customers with high flexibility and short time to market. We work closely with our customers and develops solutions according to their individual requirements. We see ourselves as a true partner throughout the entire value creation process, from the first inquiry to the delivery of mass production. QST, being in the business for over 3 decade, is a reliable and creative partner for its customers.
In the electronics and connector industry, tolerance is tight, timelines are tighter, and the demand for consistency is non-negotiable. Our high-speed stamping operations are engineered for this environment. Whether the requirement is millions of micro-sized contacts, terminals, or shielding components, QST delivers with exceptional reliability, dimensional accuracy, and cost competitiveness.
QST stamping presses, equipped with industry-leading Bruderer high-speed stamping machines, are capable of producing intricate metal parts from a variety of materials, including copper alloys, stainless steel, phosphor bronze, and beryllium copper. We support thicknesses and designs that meet the unique needs of modern connectors and leadframe assemblies, ensuring electrical integrity and mechanical strength.
Every great stamped component starts with a world-class die. We offer custom tooling design and in-house die fabrication for progressive dies, compound dies, and multi-out tools, all built to withstand the demands of high-speed electronic component production.
Using advanced CAD/CAM software, 3D simulation, and detailed DFM (Design for Manufacturability) analysis, our engineers collaborate closely with your product team to optimize tool geometry, material flow, and strip layout—helping our customers reduce costs and accelerate time-to-market.
QST dies are engineered for ultra-tight tolerances and high durability, ideal for the production of precision connectors, lead frames, shielding elements, terminal pins, and more.
We understand how critical uptime is in electronics manufacturing. That’s why we provide comprehensive and cost effective die maintenance, reconditioning, and spare part fabrication services to keep your production running smoothly.
QST’s rapid turnaround on precision spare parts—punches, die inserts, springs, guides, retainers, and more—ensures minimal disruption. Combined with our proactive maintenance support, we help customers extend tool life, improve efficiency, and reduce unscheduled downtime.
Why Electronics OEMs and Tier-1 Suppliers Choose QST
Connector-Focused Expertise – We specialize in stamping metal parts used in connectors, terminals, and precision contacts.
Micro-Precision Engineering – Perfect for the miniaturization demands of today’s electronics.
Scalable Production – From prototype to millions of units, we support every stage of your product lifecycle.
Fast Turnaround, Global Support – Speed and service that align with your fast-paced development cycles, in a stable production environment
From mobile devices to automotive electronics, telecom infrastructure to consumer electronics— QST is the trusted metal stamping partner behind the world’s most connected technologies.
Let’s build the future of connectivity—one precision-stamped component at a time. Contact us today to learn more.
the need for high-performance connectors and interconnect solutions, positioning them to capitalize on the market growth despite the operational setbacks.
Her leadership ensured that the company adapted effectively to challenges, balancing operational needs with employee safety. She emphasizes rigorous quality control measures and continuous improvement initiatives to ensure that the company’s products consistently meet or exceed customer expectations. Her hands-on approach to quality management has fuelled the company’s growth and enhanced customer loyalty.
Additionally, Diana has overseen the regional expansion and growth, including the establishment of plants in Malaysia and Indonesia during her tenure as General Manager. These initiatives have bolstered the company’s presence in Southeast Asia and enhanced its production capabilities.
Her focus on innovation and personal connections has also been a cornerstone of her leadership, fostering a collaborative and family-like work environment. These efforts have contributed to I-PEX reputation as a key player in the electronics industry.
I-PEX stands out in Singapore’s electronics industry due to its specialization in high-speed digital connectors and its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The company’s integrated production processes at its Yishun Plant set a benchmark for efficiency and quality, enabling it to meet the demands of global cli-
ents. Its focus on innovative technologies, such as connectors for smartphones, laptops, and tablets, positions it as a key player in the electronics supply chain.
Compared to other electronics companies in Singapore, I-PEX’s emphasis on sustainability initiatives, like managing carbon emissions and waste, aligns with the country’s environmental goals. While other companies may focus on broader electronics manufacturing or semiconductor production, I-PEX’s niche ability in connectors gives it a unique edge in the market. This specialization allows it to cater to specific technological advancements and maintain a strong presence in the industry.
“We’re upgrading all our devices and introducing new tools to enhance data collection and optimize our operations. Beyond the obvious efficiency gains, we also want these technologies to inspire and attract talent. In the past, our relatively low-tech environment made it difficult to appeal to younger professionals. With the adoption of innovative technology and increased automation, we aim to tackle multiple challenges simultaneously.”
Another key advantage of this digital transformation is the opportunity to reduce waste by moving toward a paperless business model.
“This is an ongoing process, but we’re already seeing positive results,” she says. “Last year, we used several hundred reams of paper, but this year we’ve significantly reduced our consumption.”
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
Diana recognizes the importance of strategic partnerships and collaboration in the fast-paced electronics industry. She actively seeks opportunities to forge partnerships with suppliers, technology firms, and industry stakeholders to strengthen I-PEX Singapore’s market position and expand its product offerings. They actively collaborate with technology companies and OEMs (Original Equip-
ment Manufacturers). These partnerships enable the company to accelerate product development gaining access to cutting-edge innovations, speeding up the development of next-generation connectors. This ensures that their solutions meet the demands of high-speed data transmission, miniaturization, and evolving industry standards.
I-PEX also strengthened its partnerships with key suppliers and logistics providers to ensure the
stability of its supply chain. These collaborations have resulted in increased supply chain resilience. Furthermore, forged alliances with international distributors and sales partners. These partnerships have enabled the company to access new markets penetrating new regions, expanding its customer base and boosting sales. These collaborations allow the company to stay at the forefront of innovation and respond effectively to market demands.
Under Diana Peh’s visionary leadership, I-PEX Singapore has solidified its position as a trusted provider of high-precision connectors and interconnect solutions. With a relentless focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainability, the company is poised for continued success in the rapidly evolving electronics industry. As I-PEX Singapore continues to embrace technological advancements and expand its market reach, it remains a key player driving connectivity solutions for the future.