Fischer Connectors, a leader in high-performance connectivity solutions, has applied its Swiss engineering expertise to enhance the universal USB-C standard. The company’s flagship UltiMate™ Series now features a pre-cabled USB-C connector, incorporating the innovative Ratchet Locking System (RLS) for unparalleled resistance to vibration and shock. This new connector ensures secure high-speed data transmission even in the most challenging environments, including defense, mining, construction, motorsports, and railways.
The Fischer UltiMate USB-C connector, equipped with RLS, merges fast data transfer capabilities with the rugged mechanical reliability Fischer Connectors is known for. Designed for mission-critical applications, this connector offers robust performance in sectors with extreme operational conditions, including military vehicles, UAVs, mining equipment, and construction machinery.
At the core of the new connector is the Ratchet Locking System (RLS), designed to provide a secure connection under heavy load and withstand high vibration. Key features include superior vibration resistance, tool-free operation (enabling easy connection and disconnection even in the field), and durability with high mating cycle rates. The RLS system ensures the most reliable connection in the Fischer Connectors portfolio, handling up to 37.8 Grms of vibration and 300 g of shock amplitude in the size 15 contact block.
The UltiMate USB-C connector with RLS has been rigorously tested to meet demanding industry standards, including vibration resistance of 5.35 Grms (50–2000 Hz) and shock resistance up to 100 g (half sine pulse, 6 ms). The connector also boasts an IP68 rating for sealing, hermeticity for the receptacle (<10⁻⁸ mbar l/s), and a wide temperature range from -30 °C to +80 °C. Additionally, it offers corrosion resistance for 350 hours of salt mist exposure and supports 3,000 mating cycles.
“Our new USB-C RLS connector provides exceptional environmental and mechanical performance, meeting IEC and MIL-STD standards,” says Alexandra Monchâtre, Head of Product Management at Fischer Connectors. “It truly delivers the best of both worlds—ultra-standard and ultra-rugged capabilities.”
The UltiMate USB-C connector complements Fischer Connectors’ range of rugged, high-speed connectivity solutions. Supporting high-speed data, video, and power transmission, the connector is designed for compact devices in environments where space, speed, and reliability are crucial. It supports USB 3.2 Gen 1×2 with data rates up to 10 Gbit/s and is available as a pre-cabled plug and receptacle (28 mm diameter) with a flex PCB, offering flexibility in a variety of configurations.
Fischer Connectors continues to expand its portfolio with this new addition, which enhances the company’s offerings across its Core, MiniMax, and UltiMate series. These series support various data protocols, including USB 3.2, Ethernet up to 10 Gbit/s, HDMI 2.0 for UHD video, and Single Pair Ethernet (SPE).
“As part of our ongoing commitment to innovation, our R&D team provides engineers with a versatile technology platform, combining high-density miniaturization, high-speed data, and ruggedness to meet the most stringent requirements,” explains Alvaro Goncalves, Technology Director at Conextivity Group, Fischer Connectors’ parent company. “This new USB-C connector with RLS is a prime example of how we leverage our advanced technologies to increase compatibility and interoperability for our customers across demanding industries.”
As part of the Conextivity Group, Fischer Connectors continues to innovate in high-performance connectivity solutions, contributing to the development of scalable ecosystems for power and data management.
