Interface for modular input/output and data acquisition systems

A modular I/O and data acquisition system comprising;

• a plurality of connection ports for receiving mating connectors of an interconnecting I/O module, the mating connectors configured to mate with a plurality of contacts in an associated connection port;
• the plurality of port mounted in an equipment rack, the equipment rack comprising conventional wiring interconnections, power and data buses for communication with one or more automation devices;
• wherein at least one connection port of the plurality of connection ports comprises an interface circuit comprising:
• a power source, a pair of USB data signal lines transmitting a USB data signal, and an optional video channel independent from the USB data signal.