connectors and cables on lab gear.

[John Griessen]

I'm working on the culture shock electroporator that uses power and needs serial data connection
when you want to download shot data, or upgrade it's firmware. When developing code in micropython for it,
it can be helpful to control it from a USB cable 3 feet long.

So, I'd like to know what you think is best, micro USB 2.0 type B plugs as are used in many cellphones to charge them,
or newer USB 3.1 type C plugs that don't have an orientation -- they can be flipped over and work the same.

Next question is about having one used for power only -- I'm thinking maybe one could be type C and one type B so there
would never be confusion if plugged in the wrong port. The electroporator will have a power port and a serial port.

If you allow both to be the newer type C, you get benefits and potential problems such as serial cable plugged to the power port
and no serial data, seems dead. The benefits of type C connectors are longer life until wear out, easier to use
since you just push it in, they are going to be a standard soon, and they can be splash resistant, even waterproof.

Any thoughts on trends appreciated.

The near future could allow wireless data and near field magnetic charging, but no just yet...
For the first culture shock iteration, cables are going to be used part time even if zapping on battery power.

--
John Griessen
blog.kitmatic.com Austin TX building lab gear for biologists