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When buying a replacement for a USB-C connector, are there specific details I should look for such as pin counts, pin arrangements and mounting post dimensions? Or can I just buy any connector that looks similar?

This is the connector for an XP-PEN Deco mini7 graphics tablet. It loses connection when moving the cable, and the inner part is slightly loose, even though I've barely used the thing

  • jaspersgroove@lemm.ee
    ·
    11 months ago

    This is the biggest flaw with usb c, though I seem to get downvoted and ridiculed whenever I point it out. The retaining pins are part of the port itself, not the cable plug as is the case with micro usb and lightning cables. So when the retaining system breaks, you can’t just go buy a new cable, you have to replace the port.

    The pinouts are standardized so you should just be able to count the number of solder joints and find a connector that mounts to the pcb the same way as the one you’re replacing. Just eyeballing it I found one that looks pretty closed linked below, but I would advise you to do some more research on your own and not just take my word for it.

    https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/molex/2169900003/13913753

    Looks like this is a fairly common issue for your device, unfortunately. https://www.reddit.com/r/XPpen/comments/j11ptl/xppen_deco_pro_small_ccable_port/?rdt=52268

    • Dave.@aussie.zone
      ·
      11 months ago

      Eh? You've got your thoughts backwards on the pins.

      The inside of a USB C socket is simply a central tang. The inside of a USB C plug has the flex pins that grip said tang and provide the electrical connection. The USB plug, on the cable, is designed to wear out before the socket and it's easily replaced.

      The issue however is that some manufacturers skimp on the mechanical mounting of the socket on their device and flexing of the connector + socket damages its connection to the board.

      Funnily enough, lightning connectors are designed the other way around with the components that wear out inside the expensive device. How strange.....But that's coming from a company that doesn't even want to make a robust covering for the wires in their cables.

      • nilloc@discuss.tchncs.de
        ·
        11 months ago

        People keep mentioning that lightings sockets are built to wear out, but I have iPhone 5S and 5C (the really old color) phones that are still working perfectly. Cleaning lint out occasionally is the only irritant I’ve had with these connectors.

        I know it’s anecdotal, but between my family and our years of devices, and that my MacBook Pro with USB-C charging is the most finicky of all my devices, I’m a disappointed by the switch from Lightning connectors. Time will tell though I suppose.

  • Tolookah@discuss.tchncs.de
    ·
    11 months ago

    All the dimensions matter, if you don't get the posts right, it won't hold to the board well and you'll be back here, possibly with worse problems.

    If the pins aren't right, you just won't have anything. See if you can find a part number or manufacturer marking anywhere on the connector, as it would narrow your search down plenty.