Almost every other electronic device now features a USB-C connection port. Why is it rapidly gaining the market? The tremendous benefits, including power delivery, video, audio, and data transmission through a single cable, are marvelous. The connector is also completely reversible, eliminating the need to insert the cable in a specific direction.
A USB-C cable holds more power than you think. It can power a gaming monitor and transmit video through the same cable. How does it do that? Who is responsible for the development of such technology? The blog has all the answers to these questions. So, let’s start!
A Walk into The History of USB-C Connection
In 1995, a group of companies formed a non-profit organization called “USB-IF.” The key members include HP, NEC, Microsoft, Apple Inc., and Intel. The organization’s purpose was to ensure a standardized approach to USB development.
USB-IF introduced the first USB-C or Type-C cable on August 11, 2014. Smartphones, tablets, laptops, monitors, graphics cards, headphones, and desktop PCs all widely utilize this connector.
Knowledge Base on USB-C Connection
You will typically observe the usage of Type-C and USB-C terms interchangeably. They are interchangeable as they both represent a USB connection type. However, before getting into details, here are some baseline terms that are important to discuss:
- USB Version
It represents the operation capability of the USB port. If your port supports the USB 2.0 version, it can transfer 480 Mbit/s of data. In contrast, the latest USB-4 Gen4 version can reach 80 Gbit/s of data transfer speeds.
- Protocol
USB allows communication between two pieces of hardware, and protocol is the language they communicate. There are also many other protocols like DisplayPort, PCI Express, and USB.
- Interface
It is the physical connection between the devices. USB-C interface is its distinct reversible connector with an oval shape.
- Tunneling
A unique feature of USB-C is its ability to tunnel. It can tunnel the DisplayPort protocol without a DisplayPort cable and use its Type-C cable to deliver DP video.
Usages of USB-C Cable
The vast capabilities of USB-C connection make it ideal for cross-device connectivity. The comprehensive capabilities of the connection led Apple to embrace the interface. Here is a glimpse of USB-C capabilities in different areas:
Power Delivery or Charging
Owing to the 24-connector that supersedes all its previous versions, the USB-C connector offers excellent power delivery. USB-IF is also making incredible efforts to standardize how we power and charge our electronics. USB Power Delivery is a standard for 240 W “Extended Power Range” and a 100W “Standard Power Range.”
Video Transmission
The all-new USB-4 version enables DP tunneling. If your computer or device has a USB-4 version port, it can deliver video through the same port. It can provide 8K at 60 Hz, 4K at 120 Hz, 1440p at 144 Hz, and 1080p at 240 Hz through its 40Gbps data transmission capabilities.
PCI Express
USB4 V2.0 now supports PCI Express tunneling, a huge breakthrough, especially for laptops that lack graphic cards. Gamers no longer need to hold back. Buy Fortnite Vbucks and start gaming. There is nothing between you and Victory Royale.
A simple USB to PCIe converter or docking station can flawlessly connect a high-end graphics card to a laptop. Say goodbye to lagging COD, PUBG, and Fortnite frames on your computer.
Are all USB-C Cables the Same?
An old USB-C V2.0 cable will not work with the USB4 V2.0 protocol and all its features. The new USB4 V2.0 port is backward compatible with old cables, but it will not work as fast. It’s important that you buy an authentic data cable for maximum performance.
To spot an authentic cable, USB-IF ensures proper logo use on packaging and ports. A substandard cable will not work at high speed and may not support video transmission, so get an authentic cable with certified logos.
Comparison of different USB-C interfaces:
| USB-C Interface | Transfer Rate | PINs | Display Capability |
| USB 4 | 40 Gbps | 24 | 8K at 60 Hz, 4K at 120 Hz, 1440p at 144 Hz, 1080p at 240 Hz |
| Thunderbolt 2 | 20 Gbps | 20 | 4K at 60 Hz, 2K at 120 Hz, 1080p at 240 Hz |
| Thunderbolt 3 | 40 Gbps | 20 | 8K at 60 Hz, 5K at 120 Hz, 4K at 144 Hz, 1080p at 240 Hz |
| Thunderbolt 4 | 40 Gbps | 20 | 8K at 60 Hz, 5K at 120 Hz, 4K at 144 Hz, 1080p at 360 Hz |
Conclusion
USB connection technology has come a long way, from traditional unidirectional cables to bidirectional USBC cables with widespread applications. USB-IF has played a critical role in maintaining the standard, providing ease for both consumers and manufacturers. Check out all your electronics at home and observe their USB versions to get the best out of them. Always consider devices that feature the latest USB4 V2.0 for robust application.
