USB connectors toughen up for industrial use

The latest addition to the Bulgin range of IP68 waterproof connectors is a novel design for USB connections.

The latest addition to the Bulgin range of IP68 waterproof connectors is a novel design for USB connections.

Based around the standard USB interface, these four-pole hot-pluggable connectors are compatible with USB 2.0 requirements, offering high speed data transfer up to 480Mbit/s.

Robustly housed in an overmoulded body using UL94V0-rated PVC, the connectors are environmentally sealed to IP68.

Shielded USB connectors, combined with continuous screening, produce a high degree of noise immunity and EMI protection - an important consideration in electrically noisy industrial environments Three formats of single- and double-ended cables offer a number of options for environmentally sealed connections between PC and peripherals, these are: IP68 sealed A type USB to standard B type USB, IP68 sealed B type USB to standard A type USB and IP68 sealed A type USB to IP68 sealed B type USB.

Each is available in 2, 3 and 5m lengths.

The cable connector is based on Bulgin's long proven standard Buccaneer design but now features overmoulding technology where the connector body is moulded directly over the cable.

This gives both a tough outer body and reliable cable seal.

The screw coupling provides a secure and proven locking system allowing quick and easy connections.

The mating panel mount connectors have either A or B type USB IP68 connection to the front of panel and a standard USB connection to the rear.

Shielded USB adapters are used to maintain screening throughout the system and adapter leads are available to provide a direct connection to PCBs via 0.1in-pitch headers.

This design also maintains complete compatibility with standard USB connectors, a useful feature to allow standard USB cables or USB memory sticks to be used.

Sealing caps are also available to maintain the IP rating of unmated connectors.

Standard USB connectors are too delicate to withstand the rigorous demands of industrial environments, so Bulgin's USB Buccaneer connectors will find many applications within industrial control, where water and dust may be present, and a strong, robust and secure USB connector is needed for connection between computers and peripherals.

USB Buccaneer is an extension to Bulgin's Buccaneer family of waterproof connectors which includes Ethernet connectors and patch cords along with four ranges of multipole power connectors.

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