Lightning (connector)

Lightning denotes a proprietary interface from Apple developed for thinner constructions in portable devices. It replaces the previous introduced in 2003 30-pin connector.

History

The Lightning port was presented by Phil Schiller during the product presentation on 12 September 2012. In this presentation, the new iPhone 5 were presented to the new iPod touch ( 5th generation) and the new iPod nano ( 7th Generation ), which all have the Lightning port. In October 2012, the iPad (4th generation) and iPad mini have been added to the compatible devices.

The name " Lightning" ( engl. lightning ) is based on the name introduced by Intel and Apple Thunderbolt interface (English with simultaneous flash of thunder ).

Reception

Reactions to the new port was mixed. Some praised the extended functionality, smaller size and usability on both sides, but many also criticized that old accessories for iPhone, iPad and iPod is no longer compatible. Apple sells a 30 -pin- to - Lightning adapter to ensure compatibility with the majority of old accessories. It was also criticized that Apple does not use the standard micro USB port. To fulfill the commitment of the European Union but according to a standard charging connector, Apple offers a micro USB adapter.

The Lighting - cable is available in different versions. The standard version, which is included with every new iOS device white and 50 inches long. Furthermore, a 1 and 2 meters variant are still available.

Technology

The Lightning connector is fully digital and ( for a total of 16 contacts) each has eight contacts on bottom and top. The eight contacts on the upper side are associated respectively with the corresponding eight contacts on the bottom, so that effectively only eight produce actual contacts. Addition, there is a metallic housing which is connected to ground (GND ) of the connector and is used for shielding. The counterpart of the socket generally comprises, only eight contacts on one side. The plug can thus be contrary to the 30-pin connector plugged in on both sides. At the other end of the cable can be used, inter alia, a USB 2.0 port. A microcontroller in the Lightning plug tells the connected device (eg iPhone ), for which the connected cable is suitable ( eg USB, audio, etc. ) and thus expected the corresponding thereto signals from the host device. This made it possible to replace the 30-pin connector, which contained the same ports for USB, Audio, FireWire, etc..

The Lightning connector also includes an authentication chip in order to prevent the reproduction of cables. However, a Chinese company could already replicate the chip.

Mechanics

The plug is self-cleaning, as is stripped when inserting the dirt from the socket before touching the contacts. The plug in the slip in on both sides of wells, springs afterwards. By differently sized grooves of the socket retaining forces of different strength can be realized. For example, the removal of the device in the dock from Apple is much simpler than for the original charging cable.