NEW GracePort component (C1) allows for USB-C Power Connectivity
Our new GracePort® with USB-C charging functionality allows service technicians and PLC programmers to safely charge their laptops and other handheld devices from outside the door with a USB-C cable.
Under OSHA directives and NFPA 70E guidelines, there must be 50 Volts or above for shock hazards to exist in a typical work environment, and voltages operating at below 50 Volts do not require guarding against accidental contact which is required by OSHA under 29 CFR 1910.303(g)(2)(i). Thus, having a 24VDC-powered USB-C charging option can completely eliminate shock hazard risk and give users a unique ability to transition from their current GFCI protected accessory outlets to a much safer and compact option with minimal wiring complexities.
Additionally, control panel design engineers are constantly working to simplify their designs and increase safety in their control panels. By removing 120VAC power through the panel, they can eliminate the risk of both shock and arc flash hazard as per NFPA 70E. With the advent of the new USB-C standard, laptops and other electronic devices are now able to be quickly charged using a USB-C charging port powered by 24VDC.
USB-C connections are quickly becoming an industry-standard connector for transmitting both data and power on a single cable. In the case of our GracePort® configuration, we wanted to create a more efficient way of providing power for laptops and other devices. With the advent of the new USB-C standard, laptops and other electronic devices are now able to be quickly charged using a USB-C charging port powered that supplies 5VDC on the front of the device and 24VDC power is supplied to the back of the device.
Benefits:
- Safety: Voltages operating at below 50 Volts do not require guarding against accidental contact which is required by OSHA under 29 CFR 1910.303(g)(2)(i). Takes out the need for GFCI protected outlets on the door.
- Cost: USB-C cables are more affordable than laptop chargers, making them much more cost-effective, interchangeable for use, and replaceable.
- Space Savings: A smaller alternative for power transfer over a 120V power outlet placed within a larger housing.
- Labor Savings: Fewer components and power options means smaller GracePort® housings, fewer components, less installation time. Easy to connect from the existing 24VDC Auxiliary supply inside the panel.
- Convenience: Less for engineers and maintenance to carry; no large laptop chargers.
- Combine: Add other components and power options to the mix from our full line of customizable GracePorts (housing sizes may vary).
Component Code: C1
Technical Description: 24 VDC USB-A & USB-C Charging Station