Buyers Guide · Buyer's Guide
How to Pick the Right Tag-Connect Cable for Programming and Debug
Tag-Connect cables connect a debugger or programmer straight to pads on the PCB, so you don't fit a header on every board you build. That saves board space and connector cost on every unit.
Where Tag-Connect Is Used
- In-circuit programming. Program microcontrollers, DSPs and other programmable devices through a footprint of pads instead of a programming header or JTAG connector. Tag-Connect cables cover most popular MCU and DSP families.
- Testing and debugging. The spring-pin plug makes a dependable temporary connection. Cables come in two versions, Legged and No-Legs, each with the Tag-Connect plug on one end and a standard debugger connector on the other.
- Hobby and maker projects. Program and debug a microcontroller on a hobby board without fitting a header. Tag-Connect is a temporary programming and test connection, not a permanent way to wire sensors or actuators to a board.
- Teaching. Students can program and debug real boards without soldering headers.
You'll find Tag-Connect footprints on evaluation boards from TI, Microchip, Renesas, Nordic, Maxim, Analog Devices, Silicon Labs and Intel.
How to Pick the Right Tag-Connect Cable
Choose the version first. The Legged version has clips that snap into locating holes on the PCB, so the cable holds itself in place. The No-Legs version needs less board space but must be held by hand or secured with a TC2030-CLIP, which matters for long debug sessions.
Then put the matching footprint on your PCB. Decals are available for common layout CAD packages, and PDF footprint drawings cover the rest. When placing it:
- The footprint can go anywhere you have room, including close to the CPU. Unlike a modular jack connector, it doesn't need to sit at the board edge.
- If board space is tight, the No-Legs TC2030-MCP-NL has a very small footprint; plan how you will hold the cable in place.
In short: decide between Legged and No-Legs, and put the footprint on the board at layout stage. That's all it takes to drop the programming header.