DC to DC convertor

[fizzyade]

I'm wondering if anybody has used an isolated DC-to-DC converter in conjunction with a USB isolator to allow charging and data transfer safely and to help avoid potential "ranger danger" moments.

Traco make a number of devices, I just picked a random one:

https://www.tracopower.com/int/model/tea-1-0505

Obviously, this has a max of 200mA, so it's going to be slower at charging, and additionally, I'm going to guess there is going to be a fair amount of switching noise from the convertor, I've used these parts in the past on projects where I had a wide(ish) input voltage and didn't want to generate a load of heat during the conversion (linear regulator), or end up soldering a load of components with a switching regulator, these things are so easy to use it's just a massive time saver for my personal projects.

Assuming this could work, I would modify the case so that I can hide the isolator inside is and connect it to the ranger and the other side I'd use an adaptor to put a new micro USB socket on the case which in turn connects to the isolator.

Ranger USB -> isolator + DC/DC -> adaptor cable USB A female to panel mount micro USB connector.

The rangers own USB connector would then not be exposed to the world, only the one that is connected to the isolator.

[Felix]

I use a basic isolator and it does provide DC current - it has to be able to power the target - and this can be used for charging (I'd have to check how much) but it's probably not the full 500mA you'd expect. I'm sure it differs from device to device.

So if you're using a decent isolator, i think you're covered and no additional DC isolation is needed.
Although if you're just charging the unit you can plug straight into the provided micro USB. Once charged, you should get many hours of use with 1 charge, even with a tiny 500mAh battery which I believe is an option from Welectron.