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Waterproof/splashproof usb?

Former Member

Hi Guys!

 

Currently in the process of creating a wearable. Decided to over-mold the pcb with silicon rubber (similar) to the Nike Fuel Band and Fitbit.

 

The Fitbit has an exposed charging port, however, it is water resistant (splash proof, not fully water proof)

 

For this wearable I am using a micro-USB for charging, however, I am concerned about its water resistance. I don't want a cap to go over the USB port (similar to an old Nokia phone). I'm comfortable with it being exposed. How does water resistance with USB ports work? Can water enter a USB port? or  will it have to be a specially designed water proof port?

 

Since silicone rubber will be surrounding the pcb it is already splash proof but the micro-usb port is exposed..

 

My apologizes if I'm not using the technical terms. I'm fairly new to this every since I became a fan of Ben's youtube channel.

 

thank you for all your help and advice in advance!!!

  • I would epoxy behind the port, typically USB ports are not really waterproof and some industrial PLC that sport USB use different connectors and an adapter to get around this and make the unit IP65 rated, I asked about why they did not use a real micro USB and the answer was that during epoxying of the unit there was too much risk of it leaking into the connector and making it un-reliable

     

    If you can find or experiment with sealing behind and around the connector without it leaking into it then you should be good. 5V and water is not too much of a worry, people would just give it a quick blow out then plug in

  • Oh wow ! thank you! Never knew or considered epoxying, really helps! Thank you!