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Tag-Connect, LLC

Tag-Connect ARM20-CTX - 20-Pin ARM to TC2030-IDC SWD Adapter

Tag-Connect ARM20-CTX - 20-Pin ARM to TC2030-IDC SWD Adapter

Professional 20-pin ARM JTAG to 6-pin TC2030 SWD interface adapter for ARM Cortex microcontrollers

SKU: ARM20-CTX

20-Pin IDC Type
Regular price
2,350.00TL exc tax
Regular price Sale price
2,350.00TL exc tax
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Key Features

84% PCB Space Reduction
Universal ARM Cortex Compatibility
Professional Debugger Support
Complete SWD Signal Mapping
Patented Plug-of-Nails Technology
Production Programming Optimised
Zero Board Component Cost

Overview

Professional ARM Cortex SWD Programming Adapter

The Tag Connect ARM20-CTX adapter bridges the gap between traditional 20-pin ARM JTAG debuggers and modern compact TC2030 footprints, enabling efficient Serial Wire Debug (SWD) programming for ARM Cortex microcontrollers. This professional interface adapter eliminates the need for bulky traditional connectors whilst maintaining full SWD functionality.

Significant PCB Space Savings

By converting from a standard 20-pin 0.1" ARM connector to Tag-Connect's patented 6-pin TC2030 Plug-of-Nails™ footprint, engineers achieve an impressive 84% reduction in PCB real estate. The TC2030 footprint occupies merely 0.02 square inches - approximately the same space as an 0805 resistor.

Compatible Debugging Solutions

The ARM20-CTX works seamlessly with popular debugging platforms including Segger J-Link, ST-LINK/V2, ST-LINK/V3, PEmicro Cyclone Universal, and other ARM Cortex SWD-compatible debuggers. The adapter maps essential SWD signals: SWDIO, SWCLK, nRESET, and SWO to the compact TC2030 interface.

For enhanced functionality, pair with TC2030-IDC legged cables for secure debugging connections, or TC2030-IDC-NL no-legs variants for rapid production programming. Consider the complementary ARM20-CTX-M for Lauterbach programmers requiring female IDC connections.

This adapter represents the optimal solution for professional embedded developers seeking to reduce PCB costs, save board space, and maintain reliable SWD debugging capabilities across ARM Cortex-M processor designs.

PCB Design Efficiency

Eliminates bulky 20-pin connectors, freeing precious board space for additional functionality and enabling compact product designs.

Production Cost Reduction

Removes expensive mating connector components from PCB assembly, reducing bill-of-materials costs across high-volume manufacturing runs.

Professional Development Workflow

Maintains full SWD debugging capability with industry-standard tools whilst enabling modern compact PCB footprint implementations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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  • What technical documentation is available for implementing TC2030 footprints?

    Tag-Connect provides comprehensive datasheets, PCB layout guidelines, and CAD library files for implementing TC2030 footprints. Debug Store supplies all relevant documentation with adapter purchases to ensure successful implementation.

  • Can I use standard JTAG signals with the ARM20-CTX adapter?

    The ARM20-CTX is optimised for SWD protocol only. For full JTAG functionality including TDI/TDO signals, consider the TC2050-ARM2010 adapter with 10-pin TC2050 cables for complete traditional ARM JTAG support.

  • What is the difference between ARM20-CTX and ARM20-CTX-M adapters?

    The standard ARM20-CTX features a male 20-pin connector for debuggers like Segger J-Link, whilst the ARM20-CTX-M has a female connector specifically designed for Lauterbach programmers and similar equipment.

  • How does the ARM20-CTX compare to more expensive solutions like SEGGER J-Link BASE?

    Whilst premium solutions like J-Link BASE offer additional features and software integration, the ARM20-CTX provides identical SWD programming functionality at significantly lower cost, making it ideal for budget-conscious professional development.

  • Is the ARM20-CTX suitable for high-volume production programming?

    Absolutely. The TC2030 interface enables rapid hand-held programming or integration into automated test fixtures, with pogo pins rated for over 100,000 connection cycles for reliable production use.

  • What cables are required to use the ARM20-CTX adapter?

    The adapter requires a separate TC2030-IDC (legged) or TC2030-IDC-NL (no-legs) cable to connect to target PCBs. These cables are sold separately and available from Debug Store's Tag-Connect range.

  • Can the ARM20-CTX provide power to target boards during programming?

    Yes, the adapter passes through VCC from the debugger's 20-pin connector, enabling target board power supply during programming and debugging operations when supported by the connected debugger.

  • How much PCB space does the TC2030 footprint require compared to traditional connectors?

    The TC2030 footprint measures just 0.02 square inches (equivalent to an 0805 resistor), providing 84% space savings versus traditional 20-pin ARM connectors and 66% savings versus 10-pin Cortex headers.

  • Which ARM microcontrollers support the ARM20-CTX SWD interface?

    All ARM Cortex-M series processors support SWD protocol, including STM32, NXP LPC/Kinetis, Atmel SAM, Nordic nRF, Silicon Labs EFM32, and Cypress PSoC microcontrollers with SWD capability.

  • What debuggers are compatible with the ARM20-CTX adapter?

    The ARM20-CTX is compatible with Segger J-Link, ST-LINK/V2, ST-LINK/V3, PEmicro Cyclone Universal, PEmicro Multilink, and other ARM SWD debuggers featuring standard 20-pin 0.1" male IDC connectors.

  • When would I use ARM20-CTX-M instead?

    Choose ARM20-CTX-M when your debugger’s 20-pin female ribbon can’t be removed or you need a male extension (e.g., Lauterbach).

  • Does ARM20-CTX carry all JTAG signals?

    No—it is intended for SWD. For full JTAG via Tag-Connect, use TC2050-ARM2010.

Customer Reviews

Based on 2 reviews
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M
Michael Berman
Fast and efficient

Devices arrived quickly and in good condition

J
James Sweet

Tag Connect ARM20-CTX 20-Pin to TC2030-IDC Adapter