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Black Box SP387A USB-to-USB Isolator - 4-kV - 1-Port - 3.3 ft Cable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
The SP387A employs advanced electrical isolation technology to break ground loops and prevent damaging currents from flowing between connected devices. This isolation barrier effectively blocks common-mode noise and transient voltages up to 4 kV, protecting both data integrity and hardware components. The device supports standard USB signaling and power delivery, maintaining full compatibility with a wide range of USB peripherals without requiring driver installation or configuration.
Its compact enclosure measures just 1.70 inches in height, 2 inches in width, and 0.80 inches in depth, with a total weight of 170.1 grams. The integrated 3.3 ft USB cable provides sufficient reach for most desktop and rack-mounted setups, while the bus-powered design ensures zero additional power consumption or cabling complexity.
Relevant factors for this section include Receptacles, Power Cord/Cable Length, Height, Width. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
The SP387A delivers critical protection for USB infrastructure with minimal footprint and maximum reliability. Its electrical isolation capability prevents ground loop-induced data corruption and hardware damage, a common issue in environments with multiple power sources or long cable runs. The 4-kV surge rating offers peace of mind against sudden voltage spikes, while the bus-powered operation reduces installation overhead and eliminates external power adapters.
Enhanced Equipment Longevity
By blocking damaging surges and electrical noise, the SP387A extends the operational life of connected PCs, printers, scanners, and other USB peripherals, reducing downtime and replacement costs.
- Prevents surge-induced component failure
- Reduces data errors from electrical interference
- Minimizes maintenance needs
Simplified Deployment
The plug-and-play design requires no software, drivers, or external power, making installation quick and straightforward in both existing and new setups.
- Bus-powered from USB port
- No configuration needed
- Compact size fits anywhere
Deployment / Use Cases
The SP387A is engineered for environments where USB devices are exposed to electrical noise, ground potential differences, or surge risks. Its isolation technology makes it particularly valuable in industrial settings, medical facilities, laboratories, and commercial offices with complex power distribution systems. The device ensures stable data transfer between equipment racks, workstations, and peripherals, preventing intermittent connectivity issues and hardware damage.
Common applications include protecting point-of-sale systems, digital signage controllers, instrumentation interfaces, and audio/video equipment. It is also effective in retrofitting older installations where ground loop problems emerge after equipment upgrades or rearrangements. The SP387A’s compliance with WEEE and RoHS directives makes it suitable for environmentally conscious organizations seeking sustainable IT solutions.
Industrial & Laboratory Use
Ideal for protecting sensitive measurement instruments, control systems, and data acquisition devices from electrical noise in manufacturing plants, research labs, and testing facilities.
Commercial Office Protection
Safeguards PCs, printers, and peripherals in office environments with multiple power circuits or shared electrical grounds, ensuring reliable daily operations.
Physical Profile
The SP387A features a durable, compact design with dimensions of 1.70 inches high, 2 inches wide, and 0.80 inches deep. Its lightweight construction at 170.1 grams allows for easy placement on desktops, behind monitors, or within equipment racks without adding significant bulk. The matte finish resists fingerprints and blends discreetly into professional environments, while the integrated 3.3 ft USB cable provides flexible routing options for tidy cable management.
- Width
- 2" (50.80 mm)
- Depth
- 0.80" (20.32 mm)
- Height
- 1.70" (43.18 mm)
- Weight
- 170.1 g
- Length
- 3.3 ft
What's in the Box
Each package includes the complete USB-to-USB Isolator unit with attached cable, ready for immediate deployment.
Highlights
- Provides 4-kV surge protection for USB connections
- Protects against electrical surges, EMI, and RFI disturbances
- Electrical isolation prevents damaging ground loops
- Powered directly from the USB port (bus-powered)
- Includes a 3.3 ft (1.01 m) USB cable
- Compact dimensions: 1.70" H x 2" W x 0.80" D
- Lightweight design at 170.1 grams
- Compliant with WEEE and RoHS environmental directives
- Backed by a 5-year limited warranty
- Manufactured in the United States
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Black Box Corporation |
| Manufacturer Part Number | SP387A |
| Brand Name | Black Box |
| Product Model | SP387A |
| Product Name | USB-to-USB Isolator - 4-kV, 1-Port |
| Product Condition | New |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 Pack |
| Product Type | Surge Suppressor/Protector |
| Technical Information | |
| Receptacles | 1 x USB |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Power Cord/Cable Length | 3.3 ft |
| Height | 1.70" (43.18 mm) |
| Width | 2" (50.80 mm) |
| Depth | 0.80" (20.32 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 170.1 g |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | USB-to-USB Isolator - 4-kV, 1-Port 1-meter (3.3-ft.) USB Cable |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Compliance | Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE),Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 5 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What does the 4-kV protection rating mean for this USB isolator?
The 4-kV rating indicates the device can withstand transient voltage spikes up to 4,000 volts, such as those from electrical surges or lightning-induced disturbances. This level of protection safeguards connected USB equipment from damage, ensuring reliable operation in environments with unstable power or high electrical noise.
How does this isolator protect against ground loops?
The SP387A uses electrical isolation technology to break the direct electrical connection between the USB host and peripheral devices. This prevents ground loop currents from flowing through the USB cable, which can cause data corruption, intermittent connectivity, or hardware damage. The isolation barrier effectively blocks common-mode noise while allowing normal data signals to pass through.
Does this device require an external power supply or batteries?
No, the SP387A is bus-powered, meaning it draws all necessary power directly from the USB port of the connected host device. This eliminates the need for external power adapters, batteries, or additional cabling, simplifying installation and reducing clutter in your setup.
What is included in the package with the SP387A isolator?
The package includes the USB-to-USB Isolator unit with an integrated 1-meter (3.3-foot) USB cable. This cable is permanently attached to the isolator, providing a complete, ready-to-use solution for protecting a single USB connection. No additional accessories or cables are required for basic operation.
What environmental standards does this product comply with?
The SP387A complies with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive and the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive. These standards ensure the product is manufactured with environmentally responsible materials and can be properly recycled at end-of-life, supporting sustainable IT practices.
What warranty coverage is provided for the Black Box SP387A?
Black Box provides a 5-year limited warranty for the SP387A USB-to-USB Isolator. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use, offering long-term assurance of product reliability and performance. For specific terms and conditions, refer to the official warranty documentation available through Black Box.