Waterproof USB-C

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Hey everyone,

I’m looking at either wireless charging of Lipo batteries in a waterproof container running a GPS module and this set up - XIAO ESP32S3 for Meshtastic & LoRa

The BMS is throught the USB port… so would love to know if anyone has seen something like that port on an iphone for charging that is waterproof - will be used on a small sailing boat.

Mick

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Hey @Michael295577 ,

I wasn’t able to find anything that will be 100% waterproof in a setup like this however, I do have a recommendation.

This kind of magnetic contact is commonly used for smart watches and other electronic devices that require some level of water resistance. While this connection is unlikely to give you a fully waterproof seal, it will definitely be better than a standard USB connector.

Hope this helps!

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haven’t seen a ready-made waterproof charging port exactly like the iPhone’s for this type of project, but a good option might be using a waterproof USB-C bulkhead connector or magnetic charging adapter. Some of these are designed for marine environments and can handle splashes and rain. Another approach is inductive charging through the container wall, but that usually comes with slower charging speeds. For a small sailing boat, I’d lean towards a waterproof connector setup since it’s more reliable for keeping the system running.

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Hi Michael
Does this connector have to be type C USB. You maybe able to interface another connector which is waterproof, they might not come cheap but as long as there is enough pins and is wired pin for pin does it make any difference.
One side could be bulkhead type while the other designed for cable end.
Cheers Bob

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Thanks for the reply. It seems like it could be the easiest way of making it work :slight_smile:

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Hey… i have been told the only way to get the BMS to work is via the USB-C input… so there might be a way to re-wire it all… :slight_smile:

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Thanks…. it needs to be reliable and easy to use… a bulkhead connector sounds good… though leaning towards the magnetic adapter.

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Hi Michael.
Not rocket science
Find your waterproof connector combination with enough pins. Bulkhead and matching cable mount. Find a cable.
Cut the cable
Wire the connectors pin for pin.
All you have done is fit another suitable connector in the cable.
Cheers Bob

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Hi Michael
I don’t think Core stock anything in the waterproof multi pin range. But Jaycar stock 3 and 6 pin plus earth (screen) bulkhead and line plugs and sockets under the “Harsh Environment” heading. Might give you some ideas if nothing else.
Cheers Bob

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