Connector type C where used. USB Type-C: a universal connector for everything
In fact, the new USB 3.1 standard and the Type-C connector should calm down the mess and restore order. For everything about everything - one single cable: for data transmission, audio, video signals and power supply. The symmetrical Type-C connector is a real blessing for mobile device users who are tangled in wires. And the USB 3.1 standard allows, for example, to play video from a tablet on a TV while the mobile device is charging.
Just the transition to new specifications poses additional difficulties for manufacturers, which is why sellers and buyers immediately become despondent. Companies cannot be blamed for lack of interest: after entering the market MacBook Pro(2015), many manufacturers have introduced products that support the new USB 3.1 standard with a Type-C connector, including devices such as motherboards, monitors, external drives and smartphones. Thus, the LG G6 is equipped with a USB Type-C connector, as well as the HTC 10 and Samsung Galaxy S8, which connects to the docking station via a universal connector, turning into a full-fledged Personal Computer. But a new form does not always mean new functions: for example, Type-C in the Huawei version does not support USB 3.1, and generally uses its own technology for fast charging.
Old devices are a hindrance to new standards
Variety of connectorsMany USB devices still come with one of the old connectors. Type-C should replace them all
Technical breakthroughs always take a very long time if there is a large stock of old technology. Keyboards, mice, external drives, webcams, digital cameras, USB flash drives - millions of these devices still require support for older versions of USB. The problem could be temporarily solved by using universal adapters, but completely new devices with old USB ports are still being released.
And since a regular USB cable cannot easily distinguish between a host and a client device, it still requires two different types of connectors. That's why external hard drives often come with Mini-A connectors, while printers come with typical quad-shaped Type-B connectors. Sooner or later, USB Type-C should replace not only these connectors - using a cable it would be possible, for example, to connect peripheral devices to a PC without any problems. Moreover, Type-C can send DisplayPort, HDMI and even TRS jacks into oblivion.
Don't be confused: Type-C is not USB 3.1
"Talking" logosLogos should reflect what functionality the USB connector provides. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers use them
Since the USB consortium approved two other specifications at the same time as the Type-C connector, there is often some confusion in the concepts. Firstly, we have a new Type-C connector with a mirror arrangement of 2x12 pins, making the port insensitive to the orientation of the plug - which means that the problem of “how to plug in a USB Type-A plug the first time” will be available very soon forget.
Secondly, along with the new connector, a new USB 3.1 standard has been introduced, increasing the data transfer rate ceiling to 10 Gbps (gross).
Further, USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) is presented in a new, second revision: it implies faster charging of connected devices by increasing power (20 V, 5 A instead of the previous 5 V, 0.9 A). In other words, although USB Type-C, USB 3.1 and USB Power Delivery are often equated, they are not equivalent terms or synonyms. So, there is, for example, a USB 2.0 interface in Type-C format or a USB 3.1 port without support for Power Delivery fast charging.
But that is not all. The consortium cannot be completely absolved of the blame for the disorder, since it has abandoned the use of conventional nomenclature: with the advent of USB 3.1 ended USB 3.0 in the sense that it previous version is now classified as USB 3.1 Gen 1, and the newly introduced technology is called USB 3.1 Gen 2. But many cables and USB devices sold under the name USB 3.1 - without specifying which generation is meant.
The USB Consortium, however, has developed a system of logos to designate USB Type-C connectors so that you can distinguish, for example, a Type-C plug supporting USB 3.1 Gen 1 from a plug supporting USB 3.1 Gen 2 or even the old USB 2.0, but for starters logos need to be examined carefully. It's not uncommon to have to look at the manual to figure out which version you're using - unless, of course, detailed documentation is available. It's not surprising that many manufacturers continue to use the previous name USB 3.0.
Limit values of USB versionsUSB 3.1 Gen 2 doubles data transfer speeds and increases current for fast charging
To all this diversity should be added the Thunderbolt 3 interface, developed primarily by Intel and Apple. Thunderbolt from the third version also uses a Type-C connector, but is not entirely compatible with USB 3.1. With active Thunderbolt 3 cables, throughput reaches up to 40 Gbps (gross), four times that of USB 3.1. This not only provides very high speed data transfer, but will also allow you to transmit multiple video streams with 4K content via DisplayPort and even use external video cards. Complex technologies require the use of active electronics in cables. USB devices can be connected to the Thunderbolt 3 port, but never vice versa.
Difficult choice of cables
The confusion doesn't stop with standards and versions alone. If previously it was possible to limit the choice to one USB cable with the required types of connectors, with USB 3.1 and Type-C it will not be so easy. Here, as in the case of standards and versions, there has now been formed huge drawback information: not all Type-C cables can transmit data, video and supply power. In many cases, it is not clear to users whether a Type-C cable supports Power Delivery fast charging or an alternative mode for video transmission, because logos and markings, as a rule, are simply not there.
Premium motherboardsCurrently USB time 3.1 Gen 2 is supported only by select premium motherboards. Among them is Asus Rampage V 10, equipped with two Type-A and two Type-C ports, it costs about 38,500 rubles
It is often impossible to determine whether a cable supports USB 3.1 or just USB 2.0. On the Amazon website, there are very often reviews from upset customers who, after purchasing, discovered that the purchased cable does not support the fast charging technology of their smartphones. Even the designation by some manufacturers, for example, Aukey, of a USB 3.1 Gen 1 cable with Type-C and Type-A ends as a “Type-C to USB 3.0 cable” does not help to get out of this difficult situation at all - this is completely wrong.
If you decide to get a device with a Type-C connector, be sure to make sure that the package includes a cable - only then will all your requirements be satisfied. Equipment supplier for computer equipment Hama, for example, offers several Type-C cables with detailed specifications, but prices start at 1,000 rubles. Buying a Thunderbolt 3 cable will cost even more - you will need to shell out about 2,000 rubles. But all the functions are provided here. If this price is too high, then willy-nilly you will have to rummage through product descriptions and customer reviews about them in search of the right cable.
USB-C: balanced plug
Data transfer, power supply and dialogue between devices - each of the 24 pins of the Type-C plug performs a separate function. It is easy to notice that their arrangement is symmetrical.
Displays, laptops and adapters
To transfer video in one of the alternative modes (DisplayPort or HDMI), that is, for example, from a laptop to a monitor, you should also pay attention to technical requirements. There are currently several monitors on the market with a USB Type-C connector from LG, Eizo, Acer and HP (for example, Envy 27, about 40,000 rubles). For video output, the DisplayPort standard is almost universally used, which indeed works quite reliably. But if we talk about fast charging, which places special demands on the monitor’s power supply, then in many cases buyers have questions.
Alt mode videoTransferring video to a monitor via a USB-C connector, for example, like that of the LG 27UD88 (about 38,000 rubles), is usually ensured reliably, but quickly charging Power Delivery is not always given to him
However, supplying power from the monitor to the laptop is not always necessary. The Asus MB169C+ portable 15-inch monitor (about 15,000 rubles) receives power from the laptop via a fully used Type-C connector.
One way or another, nowadays it more often happens that a laptop with a USB Type-C connector is connected to a monitor via an HDMI or DisplayPort port. In such cases, an adapter is required that converts the video signal and transmits it to the monitor using the desired standard. Such accessories can be purchased from about 1000 rubles. Compared to other cables, choosing adapters is quite simple, because their task is only to convert the video signal without taking into account other features of USB 3.1.
For those interested in a laptop or tablet with a Type-C connector, the choice is currently limited, but great. In addition to MacBook (12 inches) there are hybrids Acer Aspire Switch 10 V (about 25,000 rubles) and Asus T100HA (about 18,000 rubles). And the young Google Pixel Chromebook is equipped with two whole Type-C ports (though only of the USB 3.1 Gen 1 standard), but it has not yet gone on official sale in Russia.
Old documentationEven though the Acer Aspire Switch 10 V only has one Type-C port, the manual lists older types of USB connectors
Probably, it is unlikely that any user will dare to transfer all their peripheral devices to Type-C at once, so most laptop owners will first need a USB 3.1 adapter to transfer data and video signals via a USB Type-A, HDMI or DisplayPort cable. Prices for recommended flexible models start at 2,500 rubles, such as the Icy Box IB-DK4031. Club 3D SenseVision is more expensive - about 6,500 rubles - but it includes HDMI, DVI, USB 3.0 Type-A, 4 USB 2.0 connectors, USB fast charging, as well as jacks for connecting a microphone and headphones.
Less rich in currently choice for desktops: traditionally, motherboard manufacturers introduce new standards in premium models. The only motherboard with four USB ports 3.1 Gen 2 (two each Type-A and Type-C) is the Asus Rampage V 10, which costs about 38,500 rubles. At least an indication of fast transfer 10 Gbit/s is also located on the panel of interface connectors. One of USB options 3.1 from the lower price category of desktops is the MSI X99A SLI (LGA 2011-3) with one Type-A and one Type-C port for about 15,000 rubles.
Universal adapter
The transition to computers with a Type-C connector will require an adapter with various types ports.
> Club 3D SenseVision (about 6500 rubles)
The adapter is relatively expensive, but is equipped with a large number of ports, including HDMI, DVI, microphone and headphone jacks, as well as four USB 2.0 ports and a fast charging connector (USB 3.1 Gen 1)
> Icy Box IB-DK4031 (about 2500 rubles)
A simpler version of the adapter with a Type-A connector (USB 3.1 Gen 1), HDMI,
as well as a Type-C connector with Power Delivery for fast charging of external devices.
Benefit from external storage thanks to USB 3.1
Fast memory
USB 3.1 Gen 2 gives many external SSDs, such as the Freecom mSSD MAXX, a significant jump in speed
Of course, network storage with a RAID configuration and external drives, primarily flash memory - solid-state drives and USB flash drives, benefit from the high data transfer speeds of USB 3.1 Gen 2. But for the latter, the availability of USB 3.1 Gen 2 is currently reduced to zero. The offered flash drives from SanDisk, Kingston and Corsair, positioned as USB 3.1, transfer data at a speed of no more than 5 Gbit/s, that is, they belong to the first generation. However, for most flash drives this should be sufficient for now.
As for external solid-state drives, the manufacturers Freecom (mSSD MAXX, about 8,000 rubles) and Adata (SE730, about 9,500 rubles) offer drives with USB 3.1 of the second generation. The first practical tests show that the high-speed interface does indeed provide significantly higher data transfer rates. Terramaster offers a two-bay D2-310 network storage enclosure (about 10,000 rubles) with support for USB 3.1 Gen 2, which should also make a good impression on high-speed SATA drives in a RAID array.
Music over USB-CThe score has been opened for the headphone jack on a smartphone: a Type-C to TRS adapter will soon appear as standard
It should be separately noted that memory manufacturers do the best job of specifying versions and standards and are the least likely to leave their customers halfway. The remaining manufacturers must urgently supplement the documentation and properly implement the standards.
Transitioning from one generation of technology to the next has always been a long and often confusing process, but not since the days of VHS and Betamax has there been such confusion as now. Someday, the USB 3.1 / Type-C configuration will really make life easier for everyone - especially users, but for now there are many difficulties to be overcome.
PHOTO: CHIP Studios; Freecom; Stouch; Club 3D; Raidsonic; Acer; LG; Asus; Sabrina Raschpichler
The USB Type-C port has at least one undeniable and obvious advantage in front of the micro USB port - you can insert the connector into it from either side (like Lightning). But USB Type-C also has disadvantages, we will talk about them today.
1. USB Type-C does not support fast charging
Currently, no smartphone with a USB Type-C cable is compatible with technologies that support fast charging (for example, Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0). Perhaps it will appear in the future, but definitely not on those smartphones that have already been released.
2. USB Type-C does not guarantee high data transfer speeds 
USB Type-C is only a connector form factor, not a data exchange standard. The USB Type-C cable itself can comply with different standards - USB 2.0, 3.0 and 3.1. Even if the cable supports USB 3.1, the data transfer speed through it will be limited by the port of the smartphone or computer. In theory, data can be transferred via USB 3.1 at speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second, but in reality such speeds will most likely be unattainable even under ideal conditions.
3. USB Type-C is not widely used
Surely you have often asked your friends for a charger or cable to charge your dead smartphone. In the case of USB Type-C, this will not work - it’s unlikely that anyone will have such a cable. You can ask any passerby for a micro USB cable. They may refuse, but almost everyone has it..
4. USB Type-C is expensive
The worst thing is if the cable gets lost or becomes unusable - a micro USB cord is very cheap in computer stores, and USB Type-C is not available in all retail outlets, and you will have to pay a lot for it more money. In addition, there is no guarantee that the new cable will be of the same quality as the one that came with the smartphone; there is a high risk of running into a fake.
5. USB Type-C does not support common accessories
If you have already purchased for your smartphone various accessories, such as portable chargers, OTG adapters, flash drives, speakers, etc., be prepared that they will be incompatible with USB Type-C. Finding accessories that support this standard is currently quite difficult.
All this does not mean that the USB Type-C standard is bad, it’s just that its time has not come yet. In addition, many compatibility issues can be resolved by purchasing USB adapter Type-C -> micro USB.
Almost two years ago I migrated to USB Type-C and am still not blind. I'll tell you the whole truth.
The market is not ready
In 2015, Apple presented to the public the first laptop with a progressive USB Type-C interface on board. I would have fainted with joy, but there was only one connector. But for everything at once, including charging a laptop. Only the lazy would not criticize the aluminum gadget for this port, although I personally found myself among such people. I didn’t scold it, but I was afraid that there would be problems with active use of the device.
I was afraid and still decided to buy. I really liked the device, in fact. Naturally, I bought it right away with an adapter - the most simple apple USB-C/USB. This is how mine began new life at the crossroads of generations, when the standard has already been launched to the masses, but the market is not yet ready for it.
Almost two years after the release of the MacBook 12, the market was still not ready for USB Type-C. At a minimum, this impression may be due to the public reaction to the use of the same ports in the new MacBook Pro. But often this is the opinion of theorists. In practice, everything is somewhat more prosaic. In this article I will share my experience of using a laptop with USB Type-C - the pros, cons and whether you should be afraid of the new standard.
USB Type-C is universal, but also not quite ready for the market
The functionality of the new standard is impressive and much has been written about it good articles, including . Briefly and simply, the connector is more compact than its predecessor, can be inserted on either side, supports data transfer (up to 10 Gbit/s or up to 40 Gbit/s if we are talking about Thunderbolt 3), video (up to 5K), audio and power up to 100 W inclusive.
Cool? Not that word!
The only difficulty is that when everything is mixed at once, overlaps, problems and incompatibility issues occur. The simplest example is MacBook 12 and MacBook Pro 2016, which seem to have the same connectors, but in fact they are different: classic USB Type-C and Thunderbolt 3, respectively. The latter is more progressive and is backwards compatible, but not in everything. Available with the first generation of USB-C chipset from Texas Instruments (TPS65982). And this is just the tip of the iceberg.
There are several standards for USB Type-C cables that support different speeds data transmission (from 480 Mbit/s to 10 Gbit/s), different power supply voltages or no power lines at all, with video transmission function (via built-in DisplayPort or alternative Alternate Mode) and without it. All schemes and standards are clearly spelled out, but only underground Chinese factories don’t care about them, because price is a priority. As a result, you can use a cheap cable.
What do we end up with? There is only one connector, it supports many standards, it can do almost everything, but there is also back side medals in the form of a lot of confusion among cables and peripherals. The wires are the same, but the capabilities are different. The connector is the same, but it is not a fact that it can do everything stated in the standard specifications. By the way, the new MacBook Pro really does have Thunderbolt 3 ports, but it doesn’t solve compatibility problems yet.
These are the realities of the transition period in which we find ourselves through the efforts of Apple. On the other hand, if it weren’t for the heavy tarpaulin boot with the logo of a bitten apple, from time to time kicking the market in the sirloin places, who knows how long the dominance would have been observed optical drives in laptops and how quickly Wi-Fi would spread.
Let's take a better look at working in USB Type-C in the real world and on a real device - is the devil really as scary as he is painted to be?
Two years of life with USB Type-C
Each story is strictly individual, including mine. On the other hand, there are always some general aspects of operating devices. I will try to focus attention on them so that you can try on the described experience to your personal situation.
The first thing that raised concerns was whether the laptop’s charge would be enough to restore a backup copy on it. Time Machine With external hard drive? When I purchased the device, in my region only a simple branded adapter was available, as in the photo above, that is, you can either connect power or an external drive. I was afraid in vain. 250 GB of “personal workspace” quickly settled on the new machine, using up only 30% of the battery charge in the process. The big plus was that the external hard drive supports USB 3.0, like the adapter, so data was copied at very high speeds (more than 40-50 MB/s).
I recommend not saving on USB Type-C adapters and taking branded, proven models so as not to run into a low-speed option (480 Mbit/s). And when it comes to powering a laptop, then the choice is only among TOP brands or Apple branded adapters. This is not the moment when you can save money and when you need to save money, since not only the functionality of the I/O port is at stake, but also the health of the gadget.
Having settled on a laptop and worked for a couple of weeks, I somehow didn’t notice any particular need for old USB ports, even when I needed to transfer photos from a memory card (which I do quite often on duty) or connect some equipment. I even reflashed my favorite camera (Sony A7r) via USB Type-C and a proprietary adapter - the process went without a hitch. The only difference was the need to connect this same adapter, which is a matter of seconds.
That is, there were no problems associated with the fact that the port hole in the laptop is mechanically not directly compatible with 99% of devices on the market. The need to use an adapter did not bother me at all and still does not bother me.
The first rough edges began when I needed to travel frequently on business trips. To have something to do on the road besides writing articles, I usually record movies and TV series on a tablet or smartphone. The difficulty turned out to be that there is only one port and I also have a single adapter. I didn’t buy the more expensive branded one, it was crushed by a toad. Thus, to record video from an external hard drive to an iPad and iPhone, you first had to copy the content to the laptop’s own drive and then transfer it to mobile gadget Apple. Extra action and extra time. Not critical, but still annoying.
At first I solved the problem cheaply Chinese USB Type-C hub, what is it about. It has nothing to do with power supply, so I wouldn’t burn the laptop even if I wanted to. The only ambush - low speed data transfer was limited by USB 2.0 (up to 30 MB/s), but the adapter supported three connected devices at once. True, the card reader built into it died the next day of use. However, 20 GB of video was easily transferred from an external drive through this miracle of Chinese engineering, and then I recorded similar portions of content several more times.
After some time, I solved the problem radically by ordering a high-quality and very compact USB hub Satechi Type-C Pass Through USB Hub. By the way, there are many analogues - they all cost about the same. Moreover, there are similar hubs, but also with HDMI output. In general, this miniature thing solved the problem of powering a laptop when a couple of USB accessories are connected, plus it contains SD and MicroSD card readers. Unlike the Chinese hub, the memory card slots still work. There is only one catch - the aluminum adapter heats up noticeably, but there were no difficulties with this. I worked plugged into a laptop for 5-6 hours - everything was ok.
Also, from Type-C accessories, I purchased a flash drive with two ports at once - it’s convenient to transfer some content from the MacBook to a device with old USB ports.
As you can see, there are rough edges, but even with only one USB Type-C port, no critical situations arose. But there are also advantages. For example, the fact that I can . In addition, the included power supply, but also iPhone, iPad and any other USB device. You only need the simplest Apple adapter.
Got and external battery with USB Type-C, capable of charging the MacBook 12 even when it is actively working, which increased the autonomy of the device by another 3-4 hours.
More USB Type-C, even more to jump into a brighter future
When new MacBook Pro models were announced and people began to actively scold Apple for abandoning a bunch of different holes in favor of USB Type-C, all this hype only made me smile. There are no real difficulties in switching to a new standard, there are only extra costs for adapters, but compared to the price of the laptops themselves, this is a trifle.
Complaints that pros will have to carry adapters with them are unfounded. Real pros understand that in a year or two, when you need to replace your monstrous laptop, there will be no more problems - the peripherals will catch up to the new standard. Those pros who decided to switch to a new device now don’t worry either. Because guys (and girls) already carry around a bunch of adapters for all occasions in life. That's why they're pros. Adding a couple more threes is not a problem. But any connector can be implemented on any side of the laptop, if we are talking about older MacBook models Pro.
The first version of the Universal Serial Bus (USB) was introduced in 1995. It was USB that became the most successful interface in history. computing systems. Tens of billions of devices communicate with each other via USB, so the importance of this data transfer channel is difficult to overestimate. It seems that with the advent of the connector USB Type-C, our understanding of the capabilities and role of a universal bus may change dramatically. Before talking about the prospects, let's look at what the new universal connector offers.
The advantages and disadvantages of the new format interface connector have been discussed on the Internet for some time. The USB Type-C specification was finally approved at the end of last summer, but the topic of a universal connector aroused active interest after the recent announcement of the laptop, as well as new version, equipped with USB Type-C.
Design. Convenient connection
The USB Type-C connector is slightly larger than the usual USB 2.0 Micro-B, but noticeably more compact than the dual USB 3.0 Micro-B, not to mention the classic USB Type-A.
The dimensions of the connector (8.34x2.56 mm) allow it to be used without any particular difficulties for devices of any class, including smartphones/tablets with a minimum reasonable case thickness.
Structurally, the connector has an oval shape. Signal and power terminals are located on a plastic stand in the central part. The USB Type-C contact group includes 24 pins. This is much more than the previous generation of USB connectors. Only 4 pins were allocated for the needs of USB 1.0/2.0, while USB 3.0 connectors have 9 pins.
The first obvious benefit of USB Type-C is the symmetrical connector, which allows you not to think about which side to connect the plug to the socket. The age-old problem of devices with USB connectors of any format has now finally been resolved. In this case, the solution to the problem is not achieved by simply duplicating all contact groups. A certain automatic negotiation and switching logic is used here.
Another nice thing is that there are identical connectors on both sides of the interface cable. Therefore, when using USB Type-C, you do not need to choose which side of the conductor to connect the master and slave devices.
The outer shell of the connector does not have any holes or cutouts. To secure it in the connector, internal side latches are used. The plug must be held securely enough in the connector. There should not be any backlashes similar to those that could be observed with USB 3.0 Micro-B.
Many people are probably concerned about the physical reliability of the new connector. According to the stated characteristics, the mechanical life of the USB Type-C connector is about 10,000 connections. Exactly the same indicator is typical for the USB 2.0 Micro-B port.
Separately, we note that USB Type-C is not a data transfer interface. This is a type of connector that allows you to tie together various signal and power lines. As you can see, the connector is elegant from an engineering point of view, and most importantly, it should be easy to use.
Data transfer rate. 10 Gb/s is not for everyone?
One of benefits of USB Type-C – the ability to use the USB 3.1 interface for data transfer, promising an increase in throughput up to 10 Gb/s. However, USB Type-C and USB 3.1 are not equivalent terms and are definitely not synonyms. The USB Type-C format can implement the capabilities of both USB 3.1 and USB 3.0 and even USB 2.0. Support for a particular specification is determined by the integrated controller. Of course, USB Type-C ports are more likely to appear on devices that support high data transfer rates, but this is not a dogma.
Let us recall that even with the implementation USB capabilities 3.1 Differences are possible maximum speed data transmission. For USB 3.1 Gen 1 it is 5 Gb/s, USB 3.1 Gen 2 is 10 Gb/s. By the way, the presented Apple Macbook and Chromebook Pixel have USB Type-C ports with a bandwidth of 5 Gb/s. Well and a clear example The fact that the new interface connector is very variable is the Nokia N1 tablet. It is also equipped with a USB Type-C connector, but its capabilities are limited to USB 2.0 with a bandwidth of 480 Mb/s.
The designation “USB 3.1 Gen 1” can be called a kind of marketing ploy. Nominally, such a port has capabilities identical to those of USB 3.0. Moreover, for this version of “USB 3.1” the same controllers can be used as for the implementation of the previous generation bus. At the initial stage, this technique will probably be actively used by manufacturers, releasing new devices with USB Type-C that do not require maximum bandwidth. When offering a device with a new type of connector, many will want to present it in a favorable light, declaring the presence of not only a new connector, but also support for USB 3.1, even if only conditional.
It is important to understand that the USB Type-C port can nominally be used for maximum performance connectivity at speeds of up to 10 Gb/s, but in order to obtain such bandwidth, the connected devices must provide it. Availability of USB Type-C is not an indicator of the real speed capabilities of the port. They should be clarified in advance in the specifications of specific products.
Some restrictions also have cables for connecting devices. When using the USB 3.1 interface, for lossless data transfer at speeds up to 10 Gb/s (Gen 2), the length of the cable with USB Type-C connectors should not exceed 1 meter, for connection at speeds up to 5 Gb/s (Gen 1) – 2 meters.
Energy transfer. 100 W unit
Another important feature that USB Type-C brings is the ability to transmit power up to 100 W. This is enough not only to power/charge mobile devices, but also for the trouble-free operation of laptops, monitors or, for example, “large” external drives 3.5" format
When the USB bus was originally developed, power transfer was a secondary function. The USB 1.0 port provided only 0.75 W (0.15 A, 5 V). Enough for a mouse/keyboard to work, but nothing more. For USB 2.0, the nominal current was increased to 0.5 A, which made it possible to obtain 2.5 W. This was often enough to power, for example, external 2.5” hard drives. For USB 3.0, a nominal current of 0.9 A is provided, which, with a constant supply voltage of 5V, already guarantees a power of 4.5 W. Special reinforced connectors on motherboards or laptops were capable of delivering up to 1.5 A to speed up charging of connected mobile devices, but this is still 7.5 W. Against the background of these figures, the possibility of transmitting 100 W looks like something fantastic. However, in order for the USB Type-C port to be filled with the necessary power, support for the USB Power Delivery 2.0 (USB PD) specification is needed. If there is none, the USB Type-C port will normally be able to output 7.5 W (1.5 A, 5 V) or 15 W (3 A, 5 V) depending on the configuration.
To streamline the energy capabilities of ports with USB PD, a system of power profiles was developed that provides possible combinations voltages and currents. Compliance with Profile 1 guarantees the ability to transmit 10 W of energy, Profile 2 – 18 W, Profile 3 – 36 W, Profile 4 – 60 W, Profile 5 – 100 W. Port that matches the profile more high level, supports all states of the previous ones in descending order. 5V, 12V and 20V were selected as reference voltages. The use of 5V is necessary for compatibility with the huge fleet of available USB peripherals. 12V – standard supply voltage various components systems 20V was proposed taking into account the fact that external 19–20V power supplies are used to charge the batteries of most laptops.
Of course, it’s good when the device is equipped with USB Type-C, which supports the maximum USB PD energy profile. It is this connector that allows you to transmit up to 100 W of energy. It is obvious that ports with similar potential may appear on some powerful laptops, special docking stations or motherboards, where separate phases will be allocated for the needs of USB Type-C indoor unit nutrition. The point is that the required power must be somehow generated and supplied to the USB Type-C contacts. And to transmit energy of such power, active cables will be required.
It is important to understand here that not every port of the new format will be able to provide the declared power of 100 W. There is a potential opportunity for this, but this issue must be resolved by the manufacturer at the circuit design level. Also, don’t be under any illusions that the above 100 W can be obtained from, say, a power supply the size of a matchbox, and now you can charge your gaming laptop and a 27-inch monitor connected to it using a smartphone charger. Still, the law of conservation of energy continues to work, and therefore a 100 W external power supply with a USB Type-C port will still be the same weighty block as before. In general, the very possibility of transmitting energy of such power using a universal compact connector is, of course, a plus. At a minimum, this is a great opportunity to get rid of the inconsistency of original power connectors, which laptop manufacturers especially often sin with.
Another one useful feature USB Type-C – the ability to change the direction of energy transfer. If the circuit design of the devices allows, the consumer can, for example, temporarily become a charge source. Moreover, for reverse energy exchange, you don’t even need to reconnect the connectors.
Alternative mode. Not USB alone
The USB Type-C port was originally designed as a universal solution. In addition to direct data transfer via USB, it can also be used in Alternate Mode to implement third-party interfaces. The VESA Association took advantage of this flexibility of USB Type-C by introducing the ability to transmit video streams via DisplayPort Alt Mode.
USB Type-C has four high-speed lines (pairs) of Super Speed USB. If two of them are dedicated to DisplayPort needs, this is enough to get a picture with a resolution of 4 K (3840x2160). At the same time, the data transfer speed via USB does not suffer. At its peak it is still the same 10 Gb/s (for USB 3.1 Gen2). Also, the transmission of the video stream does not in any way affect the energy capacity of the port. Even 4 high-speed lines can be allocated for DisplayPort needs. In this case, modes up to 5K (5120×2880) will be available. In this mode, USB 2.0 lines remain unused, so USB Type-C will still be able to transfer data in parallel, although at a limited speed.
In alternative mode, the SBU1/SBU2 pins are used to transmit the audio stream, which are converted into AUX+/AUX- channels. For the USB protocol they are not used, so there are no additional functional losses here either.
When using the DisplayPort interface, the USB Type-C connector can still be connected to either side. The necessary signal coordination is provided initially.
Connecting devices using HDMI, DVI and even D-Sub (VGA) is also possible, but this will require separate adapters, but these must be active adapters, since DisplayPort Alt Mode does not support Dual-Mode Display Port (DP++) .
Alternative USB Type-C mode can be used not only for the DisplayPort protocol. Perhaps we will soon learn that this port learned, for example, to transfer data using PCI Express or Ethernet.
Compatibility. Difficulties of the “transition” period
If we talk about the compatibility of USB Type-C with devices equipped with USB ports of the previous generation, then it is not possible to connect them directly due to fundamental differences in the design of the connectors. To do this you will need to use adapters. Their range promises to be very wide. Of course, we are not only talking about converting USB Type-C to other formats USB types. Adapters for displaying images on screens with traditional DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI and VGA ports will also be available.
Along with the announcement of the new MacBook, Apple offered several adapter options. Single USB Type-C to USB Type-A is priced at $19.
Considering the presence of only one USB Type-C, the owner of a MacBook probably cannot do without a universal, more functional converter. Apple presented two such adapters. One output has USB Type-C, VGA and USB Type-A pass-through, the second option is equipped with HDMI instead of VGA. The cost of these boxes is $79. A 29 W power supply with native USB Type-C is priced at $49.
Google for new system The Chromebook Pixel offers single USB Type-C to Type-A (male/female) adapters for $13, while a DisplayPort to HDMI converter costs $40. A 60 W power supply is priced at $60.
Traditionally, one should not expect humane price tags from equipment manufacturers. additional accessories. Adapter manufacturers are anticipating demand for their new products. Belkin is already ready to ship kilometers of conductors, but their cost also cannot be called low ($20–30). The company also announced, but has not yet introduced, an adapter from USB Type-C to a Gigabit Ethernet port. The price has not yet been announced; there is only information that it will be available in early summer. It's funny, but it seems that until this moment, in order to connect to a wired network, you will need to use two adapters at once. It is quite possible that someone will be more prompt than Belkin, offering an appropriate adapter earlier.
It will be possible to talk about a noticeable price reduction only after accessories with USB Type-C are dealt with much less closely. well-known companies from "Celestial Empire". Considering the prospects that are opening up, we believe that this will not be the case.
Devices with USB Type-C. Someone has to be first
Nominally, the first device equipped with a USB Type-C port was a tablet. At least, it was this device that became the harbinger of the fact that ports of the new format left the developer’s laboratories and “went to the people.”
An interesting device, but, unfortunately, it is currently offered in a fairly limited edition. The tablet has a native USB Type-C port, although the USB 2.0 protocol is used for data transfer.
Perhaps the most significant product that will help increase the popularity of USB Type-C is the recently introduced . The 12-inch laptop is equipped with a single interface connector, so its owners will one way or another become pioneers who will adapt to life with USB Type-C.
On the one hand, Apple obviously supported the development of the new standard; moreover, the company’s engineers were directly involved in the development of USB Type-C. With another - updated versions Macbook Air and MacBook Pro did not receive this connector. Does this mean that the manufacturer’s USB Type-C will not be included in the “heavier” category of devices in the coming year? Debatable. After all, Apple probably won’t be able to resist updating its line of laptops after the autumn announcement of a new mobile phone. Intel platforms With Skylake processors. Perhaps this is when the Cupertino team will allocate space on the interface panel for USB Type-C.
The situation with tablets and smartphones is even more ambiguous. Will Apple use USB Type-C instead of Lightning for them? In terms of capabilities, the proprietary connector is noticeably inferior to the new universal port, but what about the original peripherals that users of Apple mobile products have accumulated since 2012? We will find out the answers to these questions with the update or expansion of the iPhone/iPad lines.
Google has introduced the second generation of stylish Chromebook Pixel laptops. Chrome OS systems are still quite niche solutions, but the quality Google systems captivating, besides, this time they are at the forefront of devices offering to join USB Type-C. Laptops are equipped with a pair of corresponding connectors. However, to be on the safe side, Chromebook Pixels also have two classic USB 3.0 connectors.
In general, Google representatives are very encouraged by the capabilities of the new connector, counting on the appearance of Android mobile devices with a USB Type-C connector in the near future. Uncompromising support from the largest platform holder is a powerful argument for other market players.
Motherboard manufacturers are not yet in a particular hurry to add a USB Type-C port for their devices. MSI recently introduced the MSI Z97A GAMING 6, which is equipped with such a connector with data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gb/s.
ASUS offers an external USB 3.1 controller with a USB Type-C port, which can be installed on any board with a free PCI Express (x4) slot.
Peripherals with native USB Type-C are still frankly not enough. Surely many manufacturers were in no hurry with the announcement, waiting for the appearance of systems with which it would be possible to use products with USB Type-C. In general, this is a typical situation when introducing another industry standard.
Immediately after the announcement of the Apple MacBook, LaCie introduced a series of portable external hard drives with USB Type-C.
SanDisk is already offering a flash drive with two connectors for testing – USB 3.0 Type-A and USB Type-C. The lesser known Microdia offers a similar product.
Surely we will soon see a significant expansion of the range of devices with USB Type-C. The flywheel of change will slowly but surely spin up. The support of “big” companies can influence the situation and speed up this process.
Results
The need for a universal compact connector that could be used to transmit data, video-audio streams and electricity has been brewing for quite some time. Considering the mutual interest on the part of both users and equipment manufacturers, there are all the prerequisites for USB Type-C to take off.
Compact dimensions, simplicity and ease of connection, along with ample capabilities, promise the connector the prospect of repeating the success of its predecessor. The usual USB port has been modernized several times, but the time has come for drastic changes. 10 Gb/s with the possibility of further scaling, power transmission up to 100 W and a picture with a resolution of up to 5K. Not a bad start? Another argument in favor of USB Type-C is that it is an open standard that does not require licensing fees from manufacturers. There is still a lot of work ahead, but there is a result ahead that is worth going through this path for.
Apple's latest MacBook laptop is equipped with a single USB Type-C port. But this form factor is not the corporation's own standard. USB Type-C - new type universal port, standardized by the international USB-IF consortium. And over time, it will spread to all devices that these days are equipped with a classic (if not “old”) larger USB connector.
The variety of modern Apple MacBooks can be found on the pages of Bayon:
USB Type-C connector tightly intertwined with other new standards: high-speed USB 3.1 and “electric” USB Power Delivery, whose task is to supply sufficient current to power various devices.
In the article we will talk about the differences between USB Type-C and USB 3.1 and how the USB Power Delivery standard and the Type C port are similar.
Type-C is a new form of USB port
By its physical nature, USB connector Type-C is a thinner port. The connector itself can support existing USB 3.1 and USB Power Delivery standards (USB PD for short). In fact, 3.1 and PD are “logical” varieties of USB, and Type-C is just the size, shape and type of port.
The most common USB connector belongs to the USB Type-A category. Even when moving from the “ancient” USB 1.1 standard to the long-lived 2.0 (and to the fast 3.0, which is usually marked in blue), the connector remained the same. At one time it seemed miniature, but after years of technological development it looks very massive. Its other drawback is the ability to connect to the device only with one specific side. Therefore, before attaching the connector to the port, you must ensure that it is in the correct position.
But the USB bus is also attractive for other devices! And a large USB port of a classic form factor cannot be physically placed on the thin edges of smartphones, game controllers, digital cameras and all other gadgets where this data transfer standard begs to be used. This is how numerous connector standards were born, including the now widespread “micro” and “mini”.
A variety of connectors and connectors of the Universal Serial Bus class
“Zoo” of various sizes of USB ports is nearing closing. The reason for this is the new USB standard Type-C, which has a huge advantage: the miniature geometric dimensions of the port. Its dimensions are approximately one third of the “old” USB Type-A. The new form factor can be placed in any device. No more collections of wires: both for external hard drive, and you only need one cable to charge your smartphone. At the same time, a tiny port can both fit into the body of a mobile device and serve as a source of electricity even for “gluttonous” peripheral devices. The cable ends on both sides with identical USB Type-C connectors.
The beautiful “chargers” of various shapes and colors will not go away, but the cable will be standard.
Unified Type-C standard
That’s right: a single standard, and so many “goodies” at once. There is something else: “Type C” (this is the English transcription of the name) is also attractive for its two-sided nature. You can insert the connector into this connector from either side. You no longer have to consider the direction of the “cord” in order to carefully insert it into the port.
While USB Type-C is just beginning its victorious march, data cables are an indispensable attribute of any computer household.
We recommend that you familiarize yourself with our products in this category: USB cables
USB class size Type-C can work in various “protocol” modes. In practice, this means that one and only The port can also connect HDMI, VGA, DisplayPort cables or other types of computer connections to peripherals. Digital USB-C multiport adapter from Apple is a great example of the above. This adapter allows you to connect HDMI or VGA video outputs to your computer, large connectors USB old standard Type-A , and, of course, his family USB inputs Type-C . A bunch of all kinds of USB, HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA and other connectors that now decorate most laptops on all side edges can be replaced with just one type of port. Something similar in last years happened with mobile computer speakers - they are increasingly connected to the computer via USB, rather than through specific ports.
USB Power Delivery standard
Closely related to Type-C consists of another fresh standard of the consortium - USB PD. What is USB Power Delivery?
Many mobile devices- smartphones, tablets, pocket computers, can be charged from a computer when connected to it via USB. The USB 2.0 class port provides current transmission of up to 2.5 Watts - enough for leisurely recharging, but there was no need to think about more demanding devices: the average laptop, for example, requires up to 60 Watts.
USB Power Delivery specifications allow current transmission up to 100 W. Moreover, the direction of current can be bidirectional, so both devices connected by a USB cable can both send and receive electricity. At the same time as power supply is provided, data transmission is also possible. AND new MacBook, and Google's Pixel Chromebook are capable of charging their batteries when connected via a USB Type-C port. The new USB PD standard will allow you to forget about the numerous types of cables and connectors for powering laptops. Any device can be powered from a standard USB port. The current source for a laptop can be any newfangled “ external battery" You can connect your laptop to external screen- and this display will share its current with the computer, while simultaneously showing the image sent to it by the computer through a small USB Type-C port.
All you need is support for USB Power Delivery technology. A regular USB Type-C port is not a guarantee of such electrical omnipotence. As Bayon already noted at the beginning of the article, Type-C is just a new geometry for this connector; everything else will depend on the specific manufacturer of the device - whether the developers want to equip their devices with ports Type-C size also supports USB PD.
Relationship between USB Type-C and USB 3.1
USB 3.1 is the next milestone in the development of the USB bus. Theoretical throughput USB ability 3.0 is limited to 5 gigabits per second. The new iteration, USB 3.1, doubles this figure - up to 10 theoretical gigabits/sec. This beautiful figure matches the speed of the first generation Thunderbolt port.
What is the difference between USB Type-C and USB 3.1?
The first (USB Type-C) is just the geometric shape of the connector, nothing more. Inside this “geometry” you can embed the old man USB 2.0, and its descendant 3.0, and their successor 3.1. In principle, nothing prevents you from placing even the logic of a frankly “museum” USB 1.1 in Type-C.
Case Study USB differences Type-C from USB 3.1 - Nokia N1 Android tablet. It is equipped with a new USB Type-C connector, but there is 2.0 bus logic inside (yes, not even 3.0). It also has an appropriate data transfer speed. However, these two technologies are directly related to each other, even if they are not synonymous.
Backwards compatible USB and new standard technologies
From a physical and geometric point of view, the USB Type-C connector is not compatible with its predecessors. And from a logical point of view, the developers have maintained full backward compatibility. In other words, in a thin new Type-C connector It will not be possible to “shove in” the usual bulky connector from a printer or mouse. Fail and connect a modern flash drive or external HDD, equipped with a Type-C cable, into the classic USB port of a computer format, familiar to everyone.
Now let's get back to the good stuff. The USB 3.1 standard is fully compatible with previous ones USB versions, so to connect old peripherals to the USB Type-C port, you only need a simple adapter adapter. The devices will work, there will be no problems.
How to live in the era of USB Type-C?
In practice, most new computers will be equipped with both the new USB Type-C ports and the familiar USB Type-A - at least for the foreseeable future. This process has already begun; let’s take the same Pixel Chromebook as an example. There is no need to change old peripherals (printers, scanners, flash drives with mice) to new devices with USB cables Type-C. And even if your future computer will be orthodoxly equipped exclusively with USB Type-C ports (as in the case of the MacBook), inexpensive and increasingly common adapters will help solve the problem.
Bottom line: Bayona's thoughts on USB Type-C
A timely and long-awaited update, this new connector. The pioneers of USB Type-C are the MacBook developers, but this technology will soon spread far beyond the Apple universe. Over time, other ports will become a thing of the past, and the transition to a new era will be as painless as possible. Whatever the readers' opinion about Apple, this time they have given way to a new standard that will be useful to everyone.
Moreover, the USB Type-C port can replace the Lightning interface, which is used only by smartphones and tablets of this corporation. Lightning has no special advantages over USB Type-C - it is beneficial Apple only because it receives royalties for its use.