The ultra-rugged Fischer UltiMateSeries has been upgraded with a USB-C connector incorporating a Ratchet Locking System, delivering superior protection against vibration and shock

The newly released Fischer UltiMate USB-C connector with the Ratchet Locking System (RLS) combines high-speed data transmission with the robust mechanical performance Fischer Connectors is known for

Fischer Connectors, a global leader in high-performance connectivity solutions, has applied its renowned Swiss engineering to the universal USB-C standard. Its flagship Fischer UltiMate Series—designed for demanding environments—now features a pre-cabled USB-C connector with the newly developed Ratchet Locking System (RLS).

Engineered for maximum durability, this connector offers exceptional vibration and shock resistance, enabling secure high-speed data transmission in extreme conditions across industries like defense, mining, construction, motorsports, and rail.

Drawing on its expertise in ruggedization, sealing, miniaturization, and data transmission, Fischer Connectors developed the connector to deliver exceptional reliability in mission-critical settings. It ensures secure and stable connections in challenging applications and industries—including defense vehicles, UAVs, UGVs, mining operations, heavy construction equipment, motorsports, and rail—where intense vibration and shock are common.

Ratchet Locking System (RLS) designed to resist high vibration and shock

At the core of this innovation is Fischer Connectors’ new Ratchet Locking System (RLS), which features an asymmetrical tooth design that locks securely under stress and resists loosening in high-vibration environments. Its key advantages include outstanding vibration resistance (maintaining a secure connection under high-frequency vibrations), tool-free use (allowing easy connection and disconnection even with gloves), and long-lasting durability through high mating cycles.

Naturally, Fischer Connectors integrated the RLS into its toughest product range, the UltiMate Series. In the classic size 15 contact block—offering up to 27 pins and a 25.8-mm receptacle diameter—the RLS delivers the highest shock and vibration resistance in the entire Fischer Connectors lineup, capable of withstanding 37.8 Grms of random vibration and shocks up to 300 g.

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Ruggedized USB-C connector for harsh environments

The new UltiMate USB-C connector with Ratchet Locking System (RLS) has undergone independent testing, proving its ability to endure 5.35 Grms of random vibration (50–2000 Hz, 3x1.5 hours, with no interruptions over 1 μs), 10 g of sinusoidal vibration (10–500 Hz, 3x3 hours, no interruptions over 1 μs), and shock levels up to 100 g (half sine pulse, 6 ms, no interruptions over 1 μs).

Key features include IP68-rated sealing for the plug, hermetic sealing for the receptacle (<10⁻⁸ mbar l/s), an operating temperature range from -30 °C to +80 °C, 350 hours of salt mist corrosion resistance, a lifespan of 3,000 mating cycles, and full 360° EMC shielding.

“Our new USB-C RLS connector meets stringent environmental and mechanical standards in line with IEC and MIL-STD requirements,” says Alexandra Monchâtre, Head of Product Management at Fischer Connectors. “It truly combines the best of both worlds: universal functionality and extreme ruggedness.”

As part of a versatile portfolio of rugged, compact and high-speed connectors

Featuring a compact footprint, the new Fischer UltiMate USB-C RLS connector supports high-speed data, video, and power transmission, enhancing Fischer Connectors’ portfolio of rugged, high-performance connectivity solutions built for signal integrity, mechanical durability, and space-limited applications.

Available as a pre-cabled plug and receptacle (28 mm diameter) with a flex PCB, this integrated solution ensures strong, reliable connections and design flexibility for modern electronics—particularly in applications where compact size, speed, and dependability are essential. It supports USB 3.2 Gen 1x2 data transfer with speeds of up to 10 Gbit/s.

This addition broadens Fischer Connectors’ high-speed offering across the Core, MiniMax, and UltiMate series, all of which support protocols such as USB 3.2, 10 Gbit/s Ethernet, Audio/UHD Video up to 18 Gbit/s (HDMI 2.0 type), and Single Pair Ethernet (SPE).

“Our Group R&D team has developed a versatile platform that gives engineers designing for extreme environments access to a wide range of standards and connector types,” says Alvaro Goncalves, Technology Director at the Conextivity Group, parent company of Fischer Connectors.

“The new USB-C connector with RLS is a prime example of how we combine key technological building blocks—miniaturization, high-speed data transmission, and rugged design—to deliver enhanced integration, compatibility, and interoperability across diverse markets. At Conextivity, we have the innovation, agility, and precision to meet the toughest demands in challenging environments.”