Tag-Connect, LLC
Tag Connect TC2050-IDC-NL | 10-Pin No-Legs Programming Cable
Tag Connect TC2050-IDC-NL | 10-Pin No-Legs Programming Cable
SKU: TC2050-IDC-NL
Couldn't load pickup availability
Key Features
Overview
Ultra-Compact Programming Solution
The Tag Connect TC2050-IDC-NL represents a revolutionary approach to PCB programming and debugging interfaces. This 10-conductor cable features Tag-Connect's patented Plug-of-Nails™ spring-pin connector that plugs directly into your PCB without requiring any mating connector or header component.
Ultra-Compact Footprint Design
With an incredibly small 0.03 square inch footprint—approximately the same board space as two SMT resistors—the TC2050-IDC-NL enables programming access virtually anywhere on your PCB. The "No Legs" design eliminates the need for plastic retention clips, making it ideal for high-volume production programming where speed and efficiency are paramount.
Professional-Grade Reliability
The cable incorporates high-reliability spring pins rated for over 100,000 operations, ensuring consistent electrical contact throughout extended development cycles. Each pin features tried-and-tested pogo pin technology with spring-loaded mechanisms that maintain secure connections under varying pressure conditions.
Versatile Connectivity Solutions
The TC2050-IDC-NL terminates in a standard 0.1" ribbon connector, providing compatibility with numerous JTAG programmers, debuggers, and test equipment. The cable supports MCU, FPGA, and DSP programming applications across multiple architectures, with extensive adapter solutions available for specific debugger interfaces.
Production-Ready Implementation
For applications requiring hands-free operation, the cable works seamlessly with TC2050-CLIP retaining boards that secure the connection from the PCB's reverse side. This combination delivers the space efficiency of the no-legs design whilst providing the stability needed for extended debugging sessions.
The TC2050-IDC-NL is also available as the TC2050-IDC legged version for applications where built-in retention is preferred.
Why Engineers Choose The Tag Connect TC2050-IDC-NL | 10-Pin No-Legs Programming Cable
Rapid Production Programming
Maximum Space Efficiency
Long-Term Development Investment
Tag-Connect's TC2050-IDC-NL "No Legs" Plug-of-Nails™ programming cable is a 10-conductor cable fitted with a spring-pin Tag-Connector that conveniently plugs directly into your PCB and terminates in a 0.1″ ribbon connector.
- Plugs straight to your PCB – No mating connector or header required!
- Requires only a tiny 0.03″ footprint of pads and locating holes in your PCB.
- Zero Cost Per Board!
- Tiny Footprint!
- High-Reliability Spring-Pins make a Secure Connection and are rated for over 100,000 operations.
- Footprint has no height and can reduce the size and space requirements of your PCB.
- A great way to make test and debug signals available at no cost and with minimal board space.
- Can be retained in place using a TC2050-CLIP board.
Tag-Connect cables provide a simple, reliable means of connecting Debuggers and Programmers or other test equipment to your PCB's while lowering board costs and facilitating efficient production programming. Tag-Connect uses a specially designed (Patent Pending) connector which eliminates the need for putting a programming header or other mating connector on every PCB. Instead, Tag-Connect uses tried and tested spring-pins rated for over 100,000 operations to make a secure connection to a special footprint pattern of pads and locating holes in your PCB.
The tiny "No Legs" footprint takes only 0.03 square inches (about the same board space as a couple of SMT resistors) which means you can locate the footprint right next to the MCU if desired.
This 10-conductor cable has a TC2050-NL Tag-Connector on one end and a standard 0.1″ ribbon connector on the other and is suitable for use with most many MCUs / FPGAs and JTAG programming and debug operations.
A growing range of adaptors are available for specific and generic applications such as Xilinx SPARTAN and VERTEX FPGAs, TI MSP430 (TC2050-IDC-430), etc
Also available in self-retaining "legged" version TC2050-IDC.
| General Information | |
|---|---|
Part Number (SKU) |
TC2050-IDC-NL
|
Manufacturer |
|
| Physical and Mechanical | |
Weight |
0.1 kg
|
| Other | |
Warranty |
|
HS Code Customs Tariff code
|
|
EAN |
5055383606740
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Question?
-
Are there alternatives to Tag-Connect cables for space-constrained applications
Alternatives include SKEDD connectors, edge connectors, and custom pogo pin solutions. However, Tag-Connect offers the most standardised and widely supported solution with extensive debugger compatibility and proven reliability.
-
What PCB design considerations are required for TC2050-IDC-NL?
The footprint requires specific pad patterns and locating holes as detailed in Tag-Connect's PCB design guidelines. No tracks or vias should be placed in the keep-out area, and solder paste must be avoided on contact pads.
-
Can the TC2050-IDC-NL be used for high-current applications?
The connector is designed for programming and debugging signals rather than power delivery. For applications requiring higher current capacity, engineers should consider the larger TC2070 series or implement separate power delivery methods.
-
How does the spring pin mechanism work in the TC2050-IDC-NL?
The connector uses precision pogo pins with internal springs that compress when pressed against PCB pads, creating reliable electrical contact. The spring mechanism compensates for minor PCB variations and maintains consistent connection pressure.
-
What cable length is supplied with the TC2050-IDC-NL?
The standard TC2050-IDC-NL cable is supplied with an 8-inch (203mm) length, providing sufficient reach for most debugging and programming applications whilst maintaining signal integrity.
-
Which programmers and debuggers are compatible with TC2050-IDC-NL?
The cable's 0.1" ribbon connector works with most JTAG programmers and debuggers. Specific adapter solutions are available for Segger J-Link, ST-Link, ARM debuggers, and Xilinx programming tools through Debug Store's comprehensive adapter range.
-
What is the difference between TC2050-IDC-NL and TC2050-IDC cables?
The TC2050-IDC-NL features a "No Legs" design for minimal footprint and rapid programming operations, whilst the <a href="https://thedebugstore.com/products/tag-connect-tc2050-idc-cable-uk">TC2050-IDC includes plastic retention legs</a> for self-securing connections during extended debugging sessions.
-
Can the TC2050-IDC-NL be held in place during debugging sessions?
Yes, the cable works with TC2050-CLIP retaining boards that secure the connection from the PCB's underside. This enables hands-free debugging whilst maintaining the space efficiency of the no-legs design.
-
How many connection cycles can the TC2050-IDC-NL withstand?
The spring pins are rated for over 100,000 operations, providing exceptional durability for both development and production programming applications. The high-reliability pogo pins maintain consistent electrical contact throughout their operational lifetime.
-
What is the footprint size of the TC2050-IDC-NL connector?
The TC2050-IDC-NL requires only 0.03 square inches of PCB space, approximately the same area as two SMT resistors. This makes it one of the most space-efficient programming interfaces available for embedded systems development.
-
Will this be compatible with the Lattice HW-USBN
Yes, the TC2050-IDC-NL will work with Lattice’s HW-USBN (-2A/-2B) if you use the Tag-Connect TC-LATTICE-10 adapter, which mates the HW-USBN’s 12-pin (2×6) connector to a 10-pin (2×5) header for the TC2050 cable.