USB C – the Future of Connectivity
What is USB-C?
USB-C, also referred to as USB Type-C, stands as the latest USB connector type
developed by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). The designation "C" sets it apart
from its predecessors, namely the USB-A and USB-B connector groups, which include
standard B, mini, and micro B connectors. Unlike earlier USB cables, which were
unidirectional (with USB-A connectors linking to hosts and USB-B connectors to devices),
USB-C is designed to replace both. A standard USB-C to USB-C cable is bidirectional,
facilitating connection in either orientation.
The primary objective of USB-C is to offer universal support for all existing and future
USB data transfers. Presently, USB-C connectors accommodate data transfer ranging
from early USB 1.1 to the latest USB4 v2 standards. However, this uniformity sometimes
leads to confusion among users regarding the features of their USB-C cables. This guide
aims to provide clarity on this matter.
USB-C Connector Types
Characterized by its oval shape, the USB-C connector is engineered in a compact form factor,
making it easily adaptable for smaller electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and
laptops. One of its standout features is its support for reversible plug-in orientation, finally
resolving one of the most significant complaints in USB connector history.
USB-C connectors come in two primary types, distinguished by the number of pins it comes
with the Full Feature USB-C plug that comes with 22 pins and USB-C for USB 2.0 which
comes with 12 pins.
● USB-C Plug for USB 2.0
This plug contains a single differential channel (D+/D-) to support USB 2.0
at a maximum speed of 480Mb/s. It's commonly used for charging cables or for
lower data rate peripherals such as microphones, keyboards, mice, and
microcontroller units
● Full Feature USB-C Pinout
Considered the complete form of USB-C, this plug features 22 pins,
including the USB 2.0 data channel (D+/D-), four additional differential
channels for SuperSpeed USB data (SDP), and one sideband channel (SBU).
These additional channels enable support for higher USB data rates such as
USB 3.2 and USB4, along with advanced features like DP alt-mode, PCIe
tunneling, and more.
USB-C Speed for Data Transfer
Within the USB-C connector, two SuperSpeed differential pairs—one for transmitting data
(TX) and one for receiving data (RX)—combine to form a USB SuperSpeed data lane. With
four SuperSpeed differential pairs inside the USB-C connector, it can support a maximum
of two SuperSpeed data lanes. Both the USB 3.2 and USB4 standards utilize either one or
two lanes for USB data transfer, with speeds varying according to each specification. The
D+/D- channel remains dedicated to supporting USB 2.0 data, ensuring backward
compatibility with USB 2.0/1.1 peripherals across all USB versions.
USB Specification Lane Rate Number of USB-IF Marketing Logo
Lanes Name
USB 3.2 Gen 1×1 5 Gbps 1 USB 5 Gbps
USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 10 Gbps 1 USB 10 Gbps
USB4 Gen 2×2 10 Gbps 2 USB 20 Gbps
USB4 Gen 3×2 20 Gbps 2 USB 40 Gbps
USB4 Gen4 40 Gbps 2 USB 80 Gbps
USB-C Cable Length Limits
While both USB 3.2 and USB4 signals are transferred through the same SuperSpeed
differential data lanes, the electrical characteristics differ according to the specifications.
As the data rate increases, signal integrity requirements become tighter, resulting in
variations in the maximum USB-C cable length according to the standards. Active
repeater cables are utilized to reach longer distances.
USB Specification Max. Data Transfer Passive Cable Max. Newnex Active Cable
Rate Length Max. Length
USB 2.0 480 Mb/s 10m -
USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 5 Gb/s 5m 30m
USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 10 Gbps 2m 15m
USB4 Gen 2x2 20 Gbps 2m 4m
USB4 Gen 3x2 40 Gbps 1m 4m
USB-IF Certification
When people think of USB, they often associate it with "Plug and play." To ensure such
user-friendly experiences, the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) has established a
compliance program. This program certifies USB cables and devices, affirming their
adherence to the claimed USB standard. Especially with USB 3.2 and USB4 boasting data
transfer speeds up to 10 to 80 times faster than previous USB 2.0 standards, compliance
has become more critical than ever, setting a new standard for the craftsmanship and
quality assurance of USB cable manufacturing.
● USB-C Locking Connectors
In response to the growing need for secure interconnections among
professional users, USB-IF has standardized USB-C locking connectors. This
includes two types of industrial-standard locking mechanisms: single-screw and
dual-screw locking USB-C connectors. Learn more about USB-C for Machine
Vision
DisplayPort Alt-Mode
DP Alt-Mode, or DisplayPort Alt-Mode, was initially introduced by the Video Electronics
Standards Association (VESA) in 2014. It enables the transmission of DisplayPort protocol
signals over a USB-C connector. The DisplayPort signal utilizes the four SuperSpeed
differential pairs within the USB-C interface to transmit DisplayPort data packets up to
HBR3 mode, featuring 8.1 Gbps per DisplayPort Lane. Read more about DP Alt-Mode over
USB-C
USB Power Delivery (PD)
USB Power Delivery is a groundbreaking technology that harnesses the USB-C interface
to deliver significantly higher levels of power than conventional USB bus power. Enabled
by the USB-C interface, the USB PD standard facilitates the safe transfer of power
between USB-C ports, accommodating various voltage and current profiles, with a
maximum power delivery of up to 240W at 48V/5A. Read more about USB PD over USB-C
Thunderbolt Compatibility
Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 both utilize the USB-C physical connector for their
cables, making Thunderbolt and USB-C cables appear nearly identical from the outside.
Consequently, users may sometimes find it challenging to differentiate between a
Thunderbolt and a USB-C cable.
Most laptops equipped with Thunderbolt 3 and 4 ports are compatible with USB Type-C
cables, allowing for USB data transmission speeds of up to 40Gbps. However, it's
essential to note that USB cables can only be used with USB peripherals. Therefore, if you
intend to connect a Thunderbolt device, you'll require a Thunderbolt cable. Hence,
identifying the data protocol of your device becomes crucial.
Read more about Thunderbolt vs USB-C
Outlook and Summary
As USB4 v2 looms on the horizon, promising an impressive 80Gbps data rate, the
potential of the USB-C connector is set to reach new heights. At the forefront of this
remarkable connectivity technology, we are thrilled to witness its evolution and contribute
to its advancements within the industry.
Looking forward, Newnex eagerly awaits opportunities to collaborate with USB-C
adopters worldwide. With a steadfast focus on reliability and innovation, we remain
committed to providing cutting-edge connectivity solutions. Together, we aim to shape a
future where the USB-C interface continues to empower businesses and individuals with
seamless connectivity experiences.
