When choosing a USB connector, there are many factors to consider, among which environmental parameters are one of the most important, including temperature, temperature changes, air pressure, etc. The usage of USB connectors varies in different environments, and using them in large spaces with high temperature and humidity can greatly reduce the lifespan of the interface. Below are some tips for using them in extreme environments.

The metal and insulation materials of USB connectors in high-temperature environments determine the working temperature of the connector. High temperature can damage the edge material, causing a decrease in insulation resistance and withstand voltage performance. For metals, high temperature can cause the contact pair to lose elasticity, accelerate oxidation, and cause coating deterioration. The usual ambient temperature is -40~80C, which may be higher in special situations.

2. Wet environment

Relative humidity greater than 80% is an important cause of electrical breakdown. The humid environment causes the absorption and diffusion of water vapor on the surface of insulators, which can easily reduce the insulation resistance to below the M Ω level. Long term exposure to high humidity environments can cause physical deformation, decomposition, and material escape, resulting in breathing effects, electrolysis, corrosion, and cracking. Especially for external USB connectors, environmental conditions such as humidity, water infiltration, and pollution often need to be considered, in which case a sealed connector should be selected.

3. Environment with sudden temperature changes

The humidity rapid change test simulates the actual use of a USB connector in a cold environment to switch to a warm environment, or simulates the rapid temperature changes in the environment of spacecraft and detectors. Sudden temperature changes may cause cracks or delamination in insulation materials.

4. Thin air environment

In the thin air of high altitude, the tendency of plastic to release gas pollution and use corona discharge increases, resulting in a decrease in voltage resistance and causing short circuit faults in the circuit. When reaching a certain value at high altitude, the performance of plastic deteriorates. Therefore, when using non sealed connectors at high altitudes, they must be downgraded.

5. Corrosive environment

According to the different corrosive environments in which USB connectors are used, choose connectors with corresponding metal, plastic, and coating structures. For example, connectors used in salt spray environments without anti-corrosion metal surfaces will rapidly deteriorate performance. Silver plated connectors should not be used in environments containing a considerable concentration of SO2. Mold is also an important issue in geothermal engineering.

Is it necessary to use high-quality USB connectors when designing electronic products?

The problem is often encountered by many USB system designers, and it is also a misconception, because in the design process, the importance of connectors is often underestimated and cheap but poor quality connectors are used. Although this may seem to save costs, the subsequent maintenance and connectors causing the USB system to malfunction, product recalls, circuit board damage, rework, and repairs are not what companies want to see. Therefore, when designing USB products, do not underestimate the importance of connectors and choose a high-quality and suitable USB connector.