USB Type-C boosts demand for high-quality connectors

Higher current operation and higher speed transfer require higher product quality

In view of the rising demand for USB Type-C connectors, TE Connectivity launched the splash-proof USB Type-C connector with dual-row surface-mount technology (SMT) to further improve socket design robustness. By installing with a mid-mount dual-row SMT and 0.65mm offset product design to save space, this is one of the most space-saving dual-row SMT connectors to save limited space on PCBs and complies with IPX4 splash resistance to meet the demand for use in harsh environments.

Moreover, this connector is equipped with additional PCB protection to extend durability and industry-leading EMI protection to eliminate unwanted EMI leakage. The connector also delivers functions surmounting similar legacy products to enable data, power, and audio/video transfer by means of faster single connection. Its reversible plug design makes connection simpler, more convenient, and more reliable. With a converter cable or adaptor, it supports previous versions of USB connectors, including USB 2.0 and USB 3.1 Gens 1 & 2, for high-speed data transfer. At 20V supply, its power capacity can raise to 100W. It is also durable up to 10,000 cycles. Its wide scope of application covers factory automation, industrial machinery, data centers, medical equipment, A/V digital switches, battery packs and chargers, automotive infotainments, equipment, lighting, tablets, PCs, laptops, wearables, and smartphones.
 
TC Connectivity also released the VAL-U-LOK connector which complies with glow wire test and UL 94 V-0 requirements. This is a solution that conforms to GWEPT 750°C NF and UL 94 V-0 standards at the same time for customers to differentiate products from competitors. The connector also supports wire-to-wire and wire-to-panel configurations to increase design flexibility. Along with the optional Terminal Position Assurance (TPA) device, the connector ensures contacts are fully seated in the housing to resist stress and vibration when cables are under external pressure or used in high vibration application, in order to prevent separation and thereby assure contact stability for better interconnection quality. Major applications of the VAL-U-LOK connector include commercial building equipment, industrial equipment, and appliances such as lighting, security systems, HVAC systems, storage and network systems, desktop computers and refrigerators.

TE Connectivity also introduced universal MATE-N-LOK wire-to-board headers made with special materials. Also complying with the glow wire test and UL 94 V-0 requirements, these headers enable manufacturers to supply one single solution for the global market to comply with the UL 94 V-0 flammability standard of North America and the GWEPT 750°C NF standard adopted by other regions, such as Europe, Brazil and China. These headers also enable manufacturers to extend existing wire-to-wire and wire-to-panel configurations to the wire-to-board configuration and come with a wide variety of options: including pins, sockets, vertical type, right-angle type, single-row/multiple-row types. Major applications include commercial building equipment, industrial equipment and appliances, particularly for HVAC systems, control boards for industrial machinery, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, kitchenware and small appliances.

When connectors are used at high-current and high-speed data transfer, connector quality affects product safety. When designing products, manufacturers must consider if their connectors comply with the flammability standard in order to protect consumer safety and maintain company goodwill.