A connector including an integrated circuit, for connecting two conductors directly or indirectly. The integrated circuit derives power either from one of the connectors being connected by the connector or from one or more other conductors terminating in the connector, and not from a battery or photovoltaic cell or other such voltage source. A coupler connected to the integrated circuit is used in case of an indirect connection of the two conductors and/or of the one or both of the conductors to the integrated circuit, to avoid having to make a physical attachment.