This capability can eliminate the need for an additional power connection to a peripheral device by enabling the device to be powered directly from the host device via the USB+Power interface. Applications such as inventory management, retail scanning, industrial processing, and gaming devices can benefit from this capability. USB+Power has been widely used in the Point of Sale (POS) device market for several years, being utilized as an I/O between the peripheral, usually a scanner, and host device. An active latch on the cable plug provides a more robust connection in comparison to standard USB, which utilizes passive retention. The active latch provides positive retention to the board-mounted receptacle for a secure connection. With the addition of the active latch, FCI has added ruggedness and stability which is required for critical applications in the industrial and medical fields.

FCI's USB+Power connector system meets USB 2.0 requirements for data transmission speeds. Board-mounted receptacles are available in both standard through-hole and mid-board options. The plug and receptacle are both keyed and color-coded, depending on voltage, to assure proper mating. Options for 5V, 12V or 24V are available. The USB+Power system also allows a standard USB cable plug to be inserted into the USB portion of the USB+Power receptacle. FCI is licensed by IBM to manufacture USB+Power receptacle connectors. Because of the license, FCI's customers can be confident that they are purchasing a licensed connector.