# USB-C locking connector
**Wikidata**: [Q58178031](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q58178031)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/usb-c-locking-connector

## Summary
The USB-C locking connector is a specialized version of the USB-C standard designed to prevent accidental disconnection by incorporating one or two locking screws. It maintains all the functionality of standard USB-C while adding physical retention, making it ideal for applications requiring secure connections.

## Key Facts
- Part of the USB-C connector system, designed to replace older USB standards
- Available in two variants: single-locking-screw and dual-locking-screw versions
- Officially named "Universal Serial Bus Type-C locking connector" by the USB Implementers Forum
- First standardized in 2016 (publication date: March 9, 2016)
- Maintains all USB-C protocols, including data transfer and power delivery (up to 240W)
- Designed to prevent accidental disconnection in high-vibration or high-stress environments

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of a USB-C locking connector?
A: The USB-C locking connector prevents accidental disconnection by adding one or two locking screws, making it suitable for applications requiring secure connections.

### Q: How does a USB-C locking connector differ from a standard USB-C connector?
A: The locking connector adds physical retention via screws, while standard USB-C connectors rely solely on mechanical engagement for connection.

### Q: Who standardized the USB-C locking connector?
A: The USB Implementers Forum standardized the USB-C locking connector, with specifications published on May 22, 2025.

### Q: Can a USB-C locking connector carry power?
A: Yes, it supports power delivery up to 240W, just like standard USB-C connectors.

### Q: Are there different types of USB-C locking connectors?
A: Yes, there are single-locking-screw and dual-locking-screw variants, depending on the application's needs.

## Why It Matters
The USB-C locking connector addresses a critical need in industries where accidental disconnections could cause operational disruptions or safety hazards. By adding physical retention, it ensures stable connections in environments with high vibration, extreme temperatures, or frequent handling. This makes it indispensable in medical devices, industrial equipment, and other applications requiring reliable connectivity. The locking mechanism maintains all USB-C functionalities, ensuring backward compatibility while enhancing durability.

## Notable For
- First standardized USB-C variant with physical retention
- Maintains full USB-C protocol compatibility while adding security
- Available in single and dual-locking-screw configurations for flexibility
- Officially recognized by the USB Implementers Forum
- Supports high-power delivery (up to 240W) while preventing disconnection

## Body
### Design and Functionality
The USB-C locking connector is an extension of the USB-C standard, incorporating one or two locking screws to prevent accidental disconnection. It retains all USB-C features, including data transfer, power delivery (up to 240W), and support for multiple protocols.

### Standardization
The USB-C locking connector was first standardized in 2016, with official specifications published on March 9, 2016. The USB Implementers Forum, responsible for USB standards, released the official name and technical details in 2025.

### Applications
Due to its secure design, the USB-C locking connector is used in high-stress environments such as medical devices, industrial machinery, and aerospace applications where reliability is critical.

### Variants
There are two main variants:
- **Single-locking-screw**: Suitable for applications requiring moderate retention.
- **Dual-locking-screw**: Provides stronger retention for high-stress environments.

### Compatibility
The locking connector is fully backward-compatible with standard USB-C devices, ensuring seamless integration without requiring additional hardware or software changes.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.usb.org/document-library/usb-type-cr-locking-connector-specification)