USB type-C

What is USB type-C? 

USB type-C

USB Type-C, usually referred to as just USB-C, is a relatively new type of connector for delivering data and power to and from computing devices. Because the USB-C plug is symmetrical, it can be inserted either way, eliminating the frustrations of earlier USB ports and putting it on a par with Apple’s reversible Lightning plug. This alone makes it a hit for me, but USB-C is also closely linked to several powerful new technologies, including USB 3.1, Thunderbolt 3, and USB Power Delivery.

USB-C, also known as USB Type-C, is a 24-pin USB connector system, which is distinguished by its two-fold rotationally-symmetrical connector.

The USB Type-C Specification 1.0 was published by the USB Implementers Forum  (USB-IF) and was finalized in August 2014.

All in one port

In addition to power and data, USB Type-C is designed to support a wide variety of different modes and standards too, positioning it as a one-size-fits-all solution for a selection of technologies. A number of audio and video modes are supported, setting up the connector to become a replacement for the 3.5mm headphone jack and the HDMI cable.

For audio, the connector supports digital audio via the USB Audio Class specification, of which version 3.0 is the latest. Analog headsets are also supported over the connector through the Audio Adapter Accessory Mode, which repurposes the port’s SBU and CC pins for left, right, and microphone connections. With a pass-through connector, devices can also be charged up with 5V/500mA worth of power.

Data speed & power speed 

USB 3.1 Type-C cables offer a transfer rate of 10Gbps, which is double the transfer speed of USB 3.0 (5 Gbps). Additionally, these cables will offer 20 volts and 5 amps of power, compared with the 5 volts and 1.8 amps of its predecessor. This means less waiting around for devices to transfer data or for their batteries to charge.