The term USB is short for Universal Serial Bus. As a quick refresher, a &#;bus&#; is a circuit arrangement or communication system that is used to transfer data between components in a system. A &#;serial&#; bus, in this case, transmits data one bit at a time over a single wire.
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A USB connector, however, can not only carry data to and from components, but also electrical power, and can accommodate many different hardware devices, ranging from printers and keyboards to cell phones and flash drives.
Prior to the development of the USB protocol, computers used both serial and parallel ports to accomplish data transfer, with individual devices employing various proprietary plugs, connectors, cables, expansion cards, and the necessary drivers. Data transfer rates were slow, with parallel ports running at about 100 kilobytes (kB) per second and serial at 115 to 450 kilobits (kb) per second.
Debuting early in , after much work by a consortium of companies, the USB 1.0 specification could initially transfer data at 1.5 megabits (Mbit) per second at low speed and 12 Mbit per second at full speed. Transfer speed was further increased with the release of USB 2.0 in the year at 480 Mbit per second, and USB 3.0 in at 4.8 gigabits per second (Gbps). USB 3.2 has taken over the 3.1 and 3.0 standards and covers speeds up to 20 Gbps and is currently the most commonly available. The latest version is USB4, released in with transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps and is slowly being introduced into common usage.
The USB standard has been guided and certified over the years by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), which has more than 700 companies as members. The work of the USB-IF has led to a series of releases of the standard over the years with faster and faster specs. This increased speed and video resolution via a small and inexpensive interface has made USB connectors the dominant signal transfer technology in use around the world today. Shop Same Sky's full range of USB connectors and USB cable assemblies.
There are several types or physical form factors of USB connectors that are available for use in a variety of applications. These include:
The individual types of USB connectors can only mate with their associated male or female connectors. There is no cross compatibility. But while the connectors themselves are standard, the enclosures in which they are used can be changed significantly for different applications. This has led to the development of IP rated (Ingress Protection) USB connectors that enable robust protection against solid or liquid intrusion into devices used in harsh environments.
Most USB cable assemblies also have one type of connector on one end and a different type on the other end, Type A to Type B or Type C is very common. As Type C is designed specifically to be interchangeable, it is more common for Type C to be on both ends of a cable and will grow in usage as Type C ports are more widely adopted. USB 3.0 micro B plugs, which have a wider connection to accommodate the greater data transfer rate, cannot be used with a USB 2.0 micro B socket. However, devices with USB 3.0 micro B ports can be mated with older USB 2.0 micro B type male plugs.
Clarifying the confusion of micro B and USB 3.0 micro B connectorsAs has been noted, the USB communication standard defines the data transmission speed, handshake protocols, and power supply specs between the devices being used. There have been significant improvements of the standard over the years, with data transfer speeds ranging from USB 1.0 at 1.5 Mbit per second to USB 3.2 with speeds up to 20 Gbps, and now USB4 with speeds up to 40 Gbps. Each succeeding version facilitates a new round of interconnect hardware.
USB communication standards are notoriously confusing with frequent retroactive naming changes, but currently USB 3.2 is the most readily available USB standard that is compatible with both Type A and Type C connectors, though it can vary from 5 Gbps up to 20 Gbps. The 20 Gbps standard can also be known as &#;SuperSpeed USB 20 Gbps&#; or &#;USB 3.2 Gen 2x2&#;, where the 10 Gbps standard can also be known as &#;SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps&#; or &#;USB 3.2 Gen 2.&#; Finally, the 5 Gbps standard is currently known as &#;SuperSpeed USB 5 Gbps&#; or &#;USB 3.2 Gen 1.&#; However, the usage of older naming conventions can be found throughout the internet, and it may be easiest to manually check the speed ratings for the device or connector and use that as the baseline. Check out our blog post, The History of USB Standards from 1.0 to USB4, for more information.
Name Maximum Speed Alternate Name Previous Name USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 20 Gbps SuperSpeed USB 20 Gbps USB 3.2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 10 Gbps SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps USB 3.1 Gen 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 5 Gbps SuperSpeed USB 5 Gbps USB 3.1 Gen 1 or USB 3.0USB 3.2 naming conventions and specifications
However, as is the case with many installations, different versions often come into use in the same system. If devices using a newer USB version and an older version are communicating, they will default to the older version and speed. This is a function of the software, but compatibility with the standard is also hardware related.
All Type C connectors are compatible with USB 3.2, though some Type C connectors still conform to earlier standards. Type A and B is dependent on the cable, with different connector colors typically denoting different versions for quick reference. Confusion can often arise when looking at the relationship between the physical connector standard and communication standards. Our blog post, USB Type C and USB 3.2 &#; Clarifying the Connection, discusses this in more detail.
With the original standard, a host was required. A Type A connector usually indicated the host device, and a Type B usually was connected to the peripheral. With USB OTG (On The GO), this is not necessary. USB OTG is a specification that allows a USB device (such as a smartphone) to act as a host, allowing other USB devices to be connected. Basically, it allows a USB device to read data from other devices without requiring a computer.
The USB standard began as a data interface protocol to simplify interconnectivity between devices, and it supplied some power. It has since matured from a data interface supplying limited power to a significant power conduit that includes a data interface. Numerous devices are now able to charge or receive power through the connection.
A concerted effort has been made to standardize the transmission of power and increase the feature set in the form of the USB Power Delivery (USB PD) standard. Using Type C, USB PD can provide variable voltage up to 20 V and a maximum current up to 5 A, with an overall limit of up to 100 W of power transfer. The USB PD 3.1 standard, released in , has since expanded that power transfer capability up to 240 W. Additionally, the direction of the power is no longer fixed, with either the host or the peripheral supplying the power. Power management can also be optimized across multiple peripherals.
USB PD requires a digital device handshake to achieve these higher ratings. If the requisite chips are not available and the handshake does not occur, the system will revert to the 5 V/1 A standard. This is independent of the USB version and type but does require the type to support the USB PD standards. For example, a Type A to Type C cable that supports versions 2.0 and newer can use PD.
Progression of USB Power Delivery specifications
Specification Maximum Power Maximum Voltage Maximum Current USB 2.0 2.5 W 5 V 500 mA USB 3.0 and 3.1 4.5 W 5 V 900 mA USB BC 1.2 7.5 W 5 V 1.5 A USB Type-C 1.2 15 W 5 V 3 A USB PD 3.0 100 W 5/9/15/20 V 5 A USB PD 3.1 240 W 28/36/48 V 5 APD can also work with devices that do not transfer data, utilizing USB purely for power. It does require separate communication lines for power negotiation and therefore is slightly more complicated to design and manufacture than many non-USB formats. This complication can be outweighed by the fact that PD creates a charging standard across a large array of devices, simplifying and consolidating chargers. This can reduce e-waste and the inconvenience of needing multiple cables for different devices. To learn more, read our Introduction to Power-Only USB Type C connectors blog post.
By offering a small form factor, ease of design and use, high communication speeds, plus increased power transfer, USB connectors can be used in a very wide and growing list of applications. A short list of these uses includes:
Since data transfer is not a requirement, USB connectors can also be used solely to power devices such as rechargeable flashlights, charging pads, and many other portable consumer devices.
Potential applications for USB continues to growThe robustness and speed of the newest USB standard is also opening even further applications. It now has the bandwidth, reliability, and power delivery capability to be used in industrial applications such as data acquisition and monitoring, machine vision, and process control. Basically, any application that uses 240 W of power or less can be a candidate for USB power.
USB is an incredibly flexible standard that is approaching nearly universal adoption in areas where data transfer, along with power, is required. USB connectors and cable assemblies combine ease of use along with intelligent technical specifications to allow the product or systems designer to lower cabling needs and clutter, reduce footprint, ensure backward compatibility, and trim overall costs. Whether designing for the future or interfacing with legacy products, understanding the capabilities of USB will help designers to create products that can be used by nearly anyone on the planet.
In today's tech-driven world, USB cables have become essential for connecting devices, transferring data, and charging. However, not all USB cables are created equal. The quality of these cables can greatly affect their performance, durability, and user experience.
In this article, VCOM will take you to recap the developments of USB and share some tips about how to buying right USB cable to help you make informed decisions.
The Universal Serial Bus (USB) was developed in by a consortium of companies, including Intel, Microsoft, IBM, and Compaq, to standardize the connection of peripherals to personal computers. The goal was to replace the myriad of connectors at the back of PCs and simplify the software configuration of communication devices.
USB 1.0 and USB 1.1
The initial version, USB 1.0, was introduced in , offering a maximum data transfer rate of 12 Mbps. However, it was USB 1.1, released in , that gained widespread adoption due to its improved reliability. This version enabled the connection of keyboards, mice, and joysticks. For example, the early Apple iMacs adopted USB 1.1, significantly influencing the broader adoption of USB ports by peripherals.
USB 2.0
In , USB 2.0 was introduced, increasing the transfer rate to 480 Mbps. This version was a game-changer, allowing for faster transfer speeds and the connection of more complex devices like external hard drives and digital cameras. A notable example is the introduction of USB flash drives, which quickly replaced floppy disks and CDs for data storage and transfer due to their convenience and speed.
USB 3.0 and USB 3.1
USB 3.0, released in , further revolutionized the industry with transfer rates up to 5 Gbps. This allowed for even faster data transfer and improved power delivery. An example of its impact is seen in the rise of external SSDs (Solid State Drives), which leveraged the higher speeds to provide much faster access to large files compared to traditional external hard drives.
USB 3.1, introduced in , doubled the data transfer rate to 10 Gbps and included the introduction of the USB Type-C connector. This new connector was reversible, addressing a common frustration with earlier USB connectors. For instance, the Apple MacBook was one of the first major devices to feature a USB-C port, promoting the adoption of USB-C in a wide range of devices.
USB 3.2 and USB4
USB 3.2 was announced in , further increasing the data transfer rate to 20 Gbps. This iteration continued to use the USB-C connector and emphasized improved power delivery and performance.
USB4 was announced in , providing data transfer rates up to 40 Gbps and fully adopting the USB-C connector. USB4 also integrates Thunderbolt 3, enhancing compatibility and performance across devices.
USB4 v2
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September 1, , The USB Promoter Group was announced the USB4 Version 2.0 specification. It supports high-speed data transfer rates of up to 40 Gbps (Gigabits per second) and enables multiple devices to be connected to a single port. Additionally, USB4 v2 maintains compatibility with earlier versions of the USB standard, making it backward-compatible for seamless integration with existing devices.
It provides faster data transfer for computers, mobile devices, and accessories with the same connector used in USB-C devices. Further, it allows for the docking of multiple devices, such as external displays, hard drives, and other peripherals, offering an all-in-one solution for expanding a user's computing capabilities.
However, at this stage, USB4 v2 has not yet been popularized in the consumer market, and individual consumers are still unable to purchase products equipped with this latest technology standard.
Over the years, USB cables have undergone significant technological advancements. The introduction of USB-C has been a game-changer, offering a reversible connector that simplifies connections and supports higher power delivery and data transfer rates. USB-C has quickly become the standard for many new devices, including smartphones, laptops, and peripherals.
Improvements in cable materials and construction have also enhanced durability and performance. High-quality USB cables now feature enhanced shielding to reduce electromagnetic interference, robust connectors to withstand repeated plugging and unplugging, and superior conductors for efficient power and data transfer.
The USB cable manufacturing industry is constantly evolving to meet the demands of modern technology. One of the most significant trends is the widespread adoption of USB-C, driven by its versatility and superior performance. USB-C cables support fast charging and high-speed data transfer, making them ideal for a wide range of applications.
Another trend is the focus on sustainability. Manufacturers are increasingly using eco-friendly materials and adopting sustainable practices to reduce their environmental impact. This includes the use of recycled materials, reducing waste, and implementing energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
Smart features are also becoming more common in USB cables. These include features like reversible connectors, enhanced security for data transfer, and integrated chips that optimize charging and data transfer based on the connected device.
Quality is paramount when it comes to USB cables. High-quality cables ensure reliable data transfer and efficient charging, reducing the risk of data corruption, slow charging speeds, and potential damage to connected devices. Low-quality cables, on the other hand, can overheat, break easily, and even cause electrical hazards.
Investing in quality USB cables provides long-term benefits. They are more durable, reducing the need for frequent replacements, and offer consistent performance, ensuring that your devices operate at their best. In the long run, this translates to cost savings and a better user experience.
When you consider to buying a USB cable for your devices, there are several important factors to keep in mind. Here's a breakdown to help you make an informed decision:
Quality Standards and Certifications
First and foremost, check the quality standards and certifications of the USB cable. Cables that are USB-IF certified guarantee that they meet stringent performance and safety criteria. This certification ensures reliability, durability, and overall quality.
You can check this information on the product packaging, if you're buying online find it in the product link
Compatibility and Technological Capabilities
Make sure the USB cable supports the latest standards and is compatible with your devices. For example, USB4 and USB-C are the latest in the market, offering faster data transfer rates and more power delivery options.
It's also beneficial to choose cables that offer customization options if you have specific requirements, as this indicates a manufacturer that stays current with technological advancements.
Build and Manufacturing Quality
The manufacturing process plays a significant role in the performance and longevity of a USB cable. Opt for cables from manufacturers who implement strict quality control from the sourcing of raw materials to the final assembly. This ensures the cable is built to last and can handle the demands of everyday use.
Customer Support and Service
Good customer support can make a big difference when dealing with technical issues or product defects. Some excellent brands will provide customers with a 6-12 month product warranty.
Choose brands known for their responsive and helpful customer service. Positive customer reviews and feedback are great indicators of the support quality you can expect.
Cost vs. Value
While price is an important consideration, it shouldn't be the only one. Higher-priced cables often offer better quality, performance, and durability, which can save you money in the long run. Balance the cost with the cable's quality and reliability to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.
Several USB cable manufacturers stand out in the industry for their commitment to quality and innovation. Companies like Anker, Belkin, and UGREEN are renowned for their high-quality products and excellent customer service.
VCOM is also a reliable brand like these manufacturers, offering a range of USB cables with superior construction, advanced features, and rigorous quality control.
In addition to USB cables, VCOM's products also include hubs and docking stations, HDMI cables, DP cables, etc.
We hope this article can help you to choose the correct USB cable that meets your needs. In daily life you maybe need to use other 3C products, just visit our website to learn how to use them.
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