One of the most successful connectivity technologies is Universal Serial Bus or USB Why? You can find it everywhere, from laptops and desktop computers to peripheral devices like printers, mice and keyboards, to consumer electronics like cell phones and camcorders.
Key Takeaways
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Latching USB cable assemblies feature side-mounted locking latches on Type A (and sometimes A/B) plugs, which anchor the connector to the jack and prevent accidental disconnection in high-vibration environments.
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These cables are ideal for industrial equipment, mobile platforms, vehicular systems, and any application where shaking, vibration or movement can loosen standard USB connections.
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The latch mechanism aids mechanical retention, while the cable itself (e.g., shielded, heavy gauge power/data conductors) ensures robust signal and power performance.
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Specifying latching USB cables early in design helps avoid downtime, intermittent failures, and connector damage due to motion or shock.
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Always match the cable length, jacket material, shield type, and connector interface to the application's environmental and electrical demands.
Surprisingly though, there are some fundamental problems with USB, one of which is its sensitivity to vibration.
USB uses what's called a "friction fit" to remain connected, which means the friction between the connector and the jack is all that holds the connection together. As you'd find with vehicles and in military/aerospace applications, vibration can cause connectors to unexpectedly separate.
L-com has countered this problem by offering "latching" USB 2.0 cables and "latching" USB 3.0 cables. The latches, which are on the sides of the connector, fit into any standard USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 female jacks.
If you'd like to know more about Universal Serial Bus, Type-A, then check out our USB A pinout for further details.
Quick note: Latching connectors are also available for SATA cables.
Additionally, L-com now offers USB 3.0 cables with locking thumbscrews. These cables can be used in machine vision applications or with any application where vibration is an issue.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What does a “latching” USB cable mean?
A: In a latching USB cable, the plug incorporates mechanical latches (often on each side) that lock into matching channels in the USB jack, providing a secure, vibration-resistant connection.
Q2: Where should I use latching USB cables?
A: Use them in any environment where motion, vibration, shock or mechanical movement could loosen or disconnect standard USB plugs such as industrial equipment, vehicles, trains, mobile workstations and outdoor systems.
Q3: Are latching USB cables compatible with standard USB jacks?
A: They are compatible with most standard USB Type A jacks, but optimal retention requires that the jack has the appropriate channel or recess for the latch tabs. Some jacks may not.
Q4: How is a latching USB cable different from a screw-locking USB cable?
A: A latching USB cable uses a snap-in locking mechanism (tabs) for quick retention, while screw-locking cables use threaded collars/nuts to secure the connection. Screw-locking typically provides even higher retention and is chosen for very high-shock or military environments.
Q5: Do latching USB cables add electrical performance benefits?
A: The primary benefit is mechanical retention, but many latching cables from reputable suppliers also incorporate shielding, gold-plated contacts, heavy gauge power conductors and robust jackets, which enhance signal integrity and power delivery.
Q6: How do I inspect a latching USB cable installation?
A: Check that the latch is fully engaged and cannot be pulled out without pressing the release. Verify the cable jacket is intact, strain-relief is secure, routing is stable, and there is no exposure to excessive bending, kinking or movement.
