What is USB input for? Interesting things about USB

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. The company cannot be blamed for a lack of interest: after the MacBook Pro (2015) entered the market, many manufacturers 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 connectors
Many 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" logos
Logos 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 blamed for the mess, since it has moved away from using the usual nomenclature: with the advent of USB 3.1, USB 3.0 ceased to exist in the sense that this 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 USB cables and devices are sold under the name USB 3.1 - without specifying which generation they are referring to.

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—assuming detailed documentation is available, of course. It's not surprising that many manufacturers continue to use the previous name USB 3.0.

Limit values ​​of USB versions
USB 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 data transfer speeds, but will also allow you to transfer multiple video streams with 4K content over DisplayPort and even use external graphics 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 is currently a huge lack of 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 motherboards
Currently, USB 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. Computer hardware supplier 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 the 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 video
The USB-C connector, for example, like that of the LG 27UD88 (about 38,000 rubles), usually provides reliable video transmission to the monitor, but it does not always provide fast charging with Power Delivery

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 the 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 documentation
Even 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.

The choice for desktops is less rich at the moment: traditionally, motherboard manufacturers introduce new standards in premium models. The only motherboard with four USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports (two each Type-A and Type-C) is the Asus Rampage V 10, which costs about 38,500 rubles. At least the indication of fast transfer of 10 Gbit/s is also on the panel of interface connectors. One of the USB 3.1 options 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

Switching to computers with a Type-C connector will require an adapter with different types of ports for the peripherals.

> 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-C
The 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

Today, USB has replaced almost all other interfaces for connecting computer peripherals (see sidebar “External interfaces - USB competitors”), the key to which is its undeniable advantages.

■ Prevalence. Any computer released in recent years is equipped with one or more USB ports (on modern desktop PCs there are up to 12, on the vast majority of laptops - 3-4). The choice of USB devices is simply huge.

■ Easy to use. USB is the perfect embodiment of the Plug and Play principle. Devices with this interface can be connected and disconnected while the computer is running. Modern operating systems immediately recognize USB devices and load the necessary drivers. Many computers place USB ports on the front or side of the case for ease of access. In addition, it is impossible to mix up the connectors and connect peripherals incorrectly.

■ High throughput. For the USB 2.0 interface it is 480 Mbit/s. Copying a 700 MB file to a drive connected to a USB port will take no more than 20 seconds.

■ Providing food. The USB port not only serves to connect peripherals, but can also “feed” low-power gadgets, for example, mice, keyboards, flash drives and even 2.5-inch hard drives. The supply voltage via the USB bus is 5 V at a current of up to 500 mA. This, of course, is not enough for peripheral devices with relatively high power consumption, such as printers or 3.5" external hard drives. Therefore, they are equipped with their own power supplies, connected directly to the power outlet.

SIMPLE AND EASY

The connection point for all USB devices is the computer. Only with him can they “communicate” directly. This connection is called “point-to-point”.

When you connect it for the first time, the USB device is automatically detected by the operating system, after which it searches for the required driver. In this case, the rule applies: the newer the version of the operating system used, the higher the likelihood that the user will not have to install the driver himself. For example, Windows XP and Vista automatically recognize flash drives, card readers, and external hard drives and register them as removable drives. The drivers required for these devices are included in the Windows distribution and are always at hand on the system. Windows Vista also has additional drivers for the most common models of printers, scanners, gaming keyboards and other devices.

ADVICE

With rare exceptions, USB gadgets can exchange data with each other only through the mediation of a computer. In this case, the PC plays the role of a so-called USB host. It asks each device connected via USB and called a client for information about the availability of data necessary for transfer, after which it organizes a “dialogue”. It is prohibited to transfer files “on your own initiative” to clients. This method, called polling, although it takes up some system resources, makes it possible to create simple and, as a result, inexpensive USB devices.

Types of USB connectors

There are two types of USB connectors and plugs: Type A is used to connect USB devices to laptops and desktop computers. USB peripheral devices are equipped with a Type B connector. There are several options for the second type of connector: proper B, Mini-B and Micro-B.

Type A. The Type A connector connects to the Type A USB connector of a computer or USB hub. Some printers and multifunction devices also have a Type A connector for connecting cameras.

Type B The Type B connector connects to the corresponding USB connector, which is usually equipped with large peripheral devices such as MFPs, printers and scanners.

Mini-USB (type B). Smaller USB devices, such as digital cameras, PDAs, or cell phones, have a smaller version of the Type B connector called Mini-USB (or more correctly, Mini-B).

Micro-USB (type B). There is a USB connector even more compact than Mini-B - this is the Micro-B connector. Mobile phones most often boast of it.

Direct communication between two USB gadgets is possible using On-The-Go technology. Its use will allow you to print images without the mediation of a computer or directly exchange music files between MP3 players.

ADVANTAGES OF COMPETITORS

USB, eSATA and FireWire interfaces differ from each other primarily in data transfer speed (see sidebar “USB, eSATA and FireWire Bandwidth in Comparison”).

External interfaces - USB competitors

FireWire. Interface for connecting video cameras and external hard drives. The FireWire 800 standard provides for operation at higher speeds than the USB 2.0 standard, but today it is losing its relevance.

SATA and eSATA. Along with the SATA interface used to connect internal hard drives, there is eSATA for connecting external disk drives. Data transfer via eSATA is almost four times faster than via USB 2.0. Perhaps eSATA is the only interface that has a clear advantage over USB and is not going to lose ground.

PS/2. This once standard interface for connecting input devices is gradually becoming a thing of the past with the advent of USB. The purple PS/2 connector is traditionally intended for the keyboard, and the green one is for the mouse.

Parallel port. Before USB became widespread, the parallel port was the traditional interface for connecting printers and scanners. Now it is becoming less and less common.

Game port (MIDI port). Joysticks or MIDI music keyboards used to be connected to the game port. Today, such devices use a USB connector for connection, so MIDI ports are rare.

Serial port. The serial port (COM port), to which a mouse and modem were previously connected, is absolutely useless on a home PC today. This interface is used in industry to control special machines.

External SCSI interface. Previously, along with external hard drives with an IDE interface that are common today, drives with a SCSI interface were often used, which today are only relevant for server systems.

■ eSATA is used to connect external hard drives, and more recently, some models of flash drives. Unlike USB and FireWire, external hard drives with an eSATA interface do not require data conversion, which eliminates an additional link that slows down interaction with a PC. Therefore, the speed of such hard drives is at the level of hard drives built into computers. If you need maximum performance from external devices, then eSATA is the best solution.■ FireWire is primarily used for connecting video cameras and some models of hard drives to a PC. The current version of FireWire 800 is significantly faster than the USB 2.0 interface (800 versus 480 Mbit/s). But Fire Wire devices are usually more expensive than USB devices.

USB, eSATA and FireWire bandwidth compared

If you are planning to buy an external hard drive, then you will have to choose one of several possible interfaces for its connection, which have different bandwidths: eSATA provides the highest data transfer speed, followed by FireWire 800 and USB 2.0 closes this race. But the latter has its trump card: a USB connector is present on any computer.

The current balance of power will change the output of devices with the USB 3.0 interface, which will become the fastest data transfer interface. But it will be a long time before the new USB standard becomes widespread.

USB STANDARDS

■ USB 1.1. Computers manufactured before 2002 provide the user with a USB 1.1 interface. Data transfer using this standard is quite slow. Theoretical peak throughput is 12 Mbps (or 1.5 Mbps). For input devices - keyboard and mouse - this is quite enough.

On a note. The earlier version, USB 1.0, did not gain distribution and remained on paper. Finished products that meet this standard have not been marketed.

■ USB 2.0. Computers and laptops manufactured after 2003 typically have USB 2.0 ports. The maximum speed has increased significantly compared to the 1.1 standard and amounted to 480 Mbps (or 60 Mbps). Although in practice it is not possible to achieve this level of throughput.

Higher throughput is provided by USB 2.0 devices marked with the “USB 2.0 Hi-Speed” logo. If “USB 2.0 Full-Speed” is indicated on the box or case of the device, this means that data will be transferred at the speed of the USB 1.1 standard.

"SLOW ACTION"

If Windows itself does not detect the connected USB device, you will have to install the driver for it yourself (as a rule, it can be found on the disk included with the USB device). Having purchased a printer or MFP with a USB interface, do not rush to connect it right away: first, look at the user manual and read the installation procedure to understand whether you need to install software or whether the software available in the OS will be enough. Otherwise, Windows may install a driver with less functionality or even recognize the device incorrectly.

Another advantage of a USB hub is that it can be installed in a location convenient for you. This will eliminate the need to crawl under the computer desk every time in search of the right port to connect the USB connector. In addition, if the USB cable is not long enough to connect the device, the hub can act as an extension cord. The easiest way to do this is with the help of so-called USB splitters (USB hubs). These small “boxes” are available for prices starting from 100 rubles. Occupying only one USB connector on a computer, such a device usually provides four (or more) ports. Theoretically, the use of USB hubs allows you to connect up to 127 USB devices to one computer.

Please note that there are two types of hubs.

■ Active. It uses a separate power supply, which is included with the hub, as a source of electricity. The USB ports of such a splitter are capable of providing the maximum current for this interface, so even power-hungry devices such as external hard drives can be connected to active hubs.

■ Passive. Power is supplied to it from the USB port of the computer and is divided between all ports, so passive hubs are only suitable for connecting devices with low power consumption.

USB over network

The Belkin Components USB Network Hub allows you to connect up to five USB devices that communicate with your computer over a network. Using a WLAN router, you can organize a wireless connection for them.

WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM LENGTH OF THE USB CABLE

An alternative to a hub can be an expansion card installed in the PCI slot of the PC motherboard. When using it, you will have several additional USB connectors at your disposal (usually four). Similar boards can be purchased at a price of 300 rubles. Disadvantage: additional USB ports will be located on the rear wall of the system unit.

The maximum length of a standard USB cable is 5 meters. If this is not enough, you will need special extension cords (after each 5-meter section you need a kind of self-powered repeater, which, by the way, can also be a USB hub). With their help, you can achieve a connection length of 25 meters. Using the so-called USB Line Extender (costing 1000 rubles or more; this device is a USB adapter and a hub connected by a standard network cable) will allow you to cover a distance of 60 meters.

What do USB logos mean?

Most USB devices have one or more of the following logos on their packaging. Their presence indicates that the device meets the technical requirements described in the specifications and documents of the non-profit organization USB Implementers Forum. If you come across a designation that is not on our list, be careful: you may be dealing with low-quality “third party” products that may not support the stated characteristics.

A LITTLE ABOUT WIRELESS USB

Wireless USB is a new standard designed to enable wireless communication over the USB bus. Endless wires on and under your desk would be a thing of the past if printers, scanners, external hard drives and MP3 players could communicate with your computer without the need for cables. This new technology offered by the USB Implementers Forum will help make that dream come true.

New USB cable

A "traditional" USB cable consists of four wires. Two of them transmit data, the other two are used for power supply. For the new high-speed operating mode of USB version 3.0, four wires are no longer enough, so the new cable will have four additional lines for data: the first pair will be used for reception, the second for transmission. Advantage: unlike USB 2.0, data reception and transmission will be carried out simultaneously and at maximum speed. The USB 3.0 cable will feature a new connector with five additional pins.

As an example, let's look at how you can simultaneously connect a regular USB printer and scanner using Wireless USB. In this case, it will still not be possible to do without wires at all: both devices will have to be connected by cables to a wireless USB hub, which will communicate with the computer “on their behalf.” In this case, the appropriate wireless USB adapter must be installed in the PC. In this case, the printer and scanner will be detected by the system as devices connected to the computer in the traditional way.

It is worth taking into account the fact that the USB wireless interface provides a maximum transfer speed of 480 Mbit/s only if the distance between the hub and the computer does not exceed three meters. Over longer distances, Wireless USB throughput decreases. If there are obstacles in the way of the wireless communication channel, such as a wall, data transmission will not be possible.

On a note. An alternative to Wireless USB solutions are USB hubs that connect to a local network. They can be connected to a WLAN router, as a result of which a wireless connection between USB devices and a computer will also be possible.

NEW USB 3.0 FEATURES

The USB 3.0 standard was a further development of the USB 2.0 interface, introducing a number of improvements to it.

■ Bandwidth. In practice, USB 2.0 provides data transfer at a maximum speed of barely exceeding 30 MB/s. This limits the capabilities of many devices, primarily external disk drives, which are capable of operating at speeds 2–4 times higher than the specified speed. In USB 3.0, bandwidth will immediately increase 10 times and reach 5 Gbps. For this purpose, USB 3.0 is equipped with a more complex data transfer technology, in which not 8, but 10 bits are required to translate one byte. Therefore, the actual speed limit for data transfer will be approximately 500 Mb/s. However, even such results are unlikely to be achieved - the stumbling block will be the speed capabilities of external devices (the same drives), which in terms of speed significantly lag behind the capabilities of USB 3.0.

■ Connectors. One of the main tasks facing the developers of the new standard is maintaining compatibility between USB 3.0 and 2.0 connectors. As a result, you can easily connect a USB 2.0 device to a USB 3.0 connector. But those who want maximum speed will still need to purchase new cables (see sidebar “New USB cable”). They are more complex and will cost more than similar USB 2.0 cables. Additionally, not all connector types will be backward compatible with the older USB 2.0 standard. If in the case of USB type A connectors it was possible to get by with little expense by “fitting” five new contacts into the existing connector design, then with USB type B connectors, and even more so Micro-B, everything turned out to be much more complicated. In this case, it was necessary to change the design of the connector, essentially breaking it into two parts: the first, to maintain compatibility with previous standards, is the “old” USB 2.0 port, the second combines five new lines that appeared in USB 3.0. Therefore, these types of connectors cannot be connected to a USB 2.0 port.

■ Nutrition. USB 3.0 connectors support more current than all previous versions of USB: 900 instead of the previous 500 mA. This is important, for example, when using external hard drives.

■ Energy saving. In USB 2.0, the host had to constantly poll connected devices to see if they had new data, so they all had to be constantly active. Refusal of such cyclic polling in USB 3.0 will allow the use of power saving mode.

If you see the designation: USB Type-A, USB Type-B or USB Type-C in technical devices, this means that the USB device uses these types of connectors.
This is not a designation for the USB standard, it is a designation for the type of connector.

USB standards or their versions are designated as follows: USB 1.0, USB 1.1, USB 2.0, USB 3.0 and USB 3.1.
Moreover, USB 3.1 has two versions: USB 3.1 Gen 1 and USB 3.1 Gen 2.

The most well-known type of USB connector is USB Type-A, it is located on flash drives, USB modems, and at the ends of the wires of mice and keyboards.

It is used for the USB 1.0, USB 1.1, USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 standards.
For USB 1.0, USB 1.1, USB 2.0 the connector is black, and for USB 3.0 it is blue.
Thanks to the USB Type-A connector, devices with standards up to USB 3.0 are compatible.

The USB Type-C connector is different from the previous ones and is not compatible with them.

If there is a need to combine, then you need to use the appropriate adapters.

An important advantage of the USB Type-C connector is that it is symmetrical.
Now you no longer have to worry about which side to insert the cable into the device, i.e. The type C plug can be inserted either way into the socket.

Now let's look at the difference between USB standards.
Theoretical data transfer rate:

USB 1.0 up to 1.5 Mbps
- USB 1.1 up to 12 Mbps
- USB 2.0 up to 480 Mbps
- USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 Gen 1 up to 5 Gbps
- USB 3.1 Gen 2 up to 10 Gbps

Supply voltage, maximum current and power consumed by the peripheral device:

USB 1.0, USB 1.1 - up to 150 mA 5 V (0.75 W)
USB 2.0 - 5V to 500 mA (2.5 W)
USB 3.0 - 5V to 900 mA (4.5 W)
USB 3.1 Current @ 1.5 A - 5V to 1.5 A (7.5 W)
USB 3.1 Current @ 3 A - 5V to 3A (15 W)
USB 3.1 (with Power Delivery 2.0 support) and depending on Profile:
Profile1 - 5V 2A (10 W)
Profile2 - 5V 2A, 12V 1.5A (18 W)
Profile3 - 5V 2A, 12V 3A (36 W)
Profile4 - 5V 2A, 12V, 20V 3A (60 W)
Profile5 - 5V 2A, 12V, 20V 5A (100 W)

The power profile system has been introduced for more advanced cases; for standard devices, Profile1 is used.
For example, an advanced case can be considered a 100-meter active USB cable, which has a USB-to-optical signal converter at both ends and vice versa (the maximum length of a standard USB cable cannot exceed 5 meters).
Such a cable transmits only data, and power is needed for the converters.

Therefore, it is necessary to know the power profiles of both the peripheral devices being connected and the main device to which the connection is made.
A port on a device corresponding to a higher-level profile maintains all states of the previous ones downstream.

For example, a device with any profile can be connected to a device with Profile5.
Please note that the USB cable must also match the power profile if you are connecting a high-power peripheral device.

One final note.
The presence of a USB Type-C connector on a device does not mean that this port on the device operates according to the USB 3.1 standard.

More and more details are appearing on the Internet about Intel's Comet Lake-S processors.

Intel LGA1200 socket for PC processors

The release of 10th generation Intel Core Comet Lake processors for desktop PCs and motherboards based on 400 series chipsets (Z490, W480, Q470 and H410) is expected in the second half of 2020.

NVIDIA GeForce Experience has been updated to version 3.20.2

On December 23, 2019, NVIDIA updated the NVIDIA GeForce Experience (GFE) application for Windows to version 3.20.2.
The update fixes the dangerous vulnerability CVE-2019-5702.

Surely, every computer user has heard of such concepts as USB ports version 2.0 and 3.0. But not everyone understands exactly what it is. In this article I will tell you about USB 2.0 and 3.0: differences, interface compatibility, and also what it is all about.

As is logically clear, the USB 3.0 version is newer than 2.0, and, accordingly, it is better. Let's figure out why it's better, and start with the question of where it all came from.

USB and its versions

USB stands for universal serial bus, and is translated into Russian as a universal serial bus. Universal – that means you can connect anything, any device, to it. USB comes in different versions, the main difference being speed.

Manufacturers took a long time to achieve universality. As many remember, at first the computer had many different ports, some of which remain to this day, for example, bulky COM with thick cables, PS/2 with fragile contacts, and others. Now printers, keyboards, mice and other equipment can be connected via USB.

The first USBs began to appear in 1994. In 1996, version 1.0 was released, which operated at a meager speed of 1.5 Mbit/s. Then in 2000, version 2.0 was released with an operating speed of 480 Mbit/s. This is a completely acceptable speed, which made it possible to connect different equipment to the port. In 2008, USB 3.0 was released, theoretically operating at a speed of 5 Gbps.

The development of USB 3.0 was funded by many global brands in the computer industry, which were interested in introducing standardization for connectors and improving equipment performance.

USB 2.0 and 3.0: differences

Finally, let's look at USB 2.0 and 3.0: how these ports differ from each other and compare them. Here are the signs by which they differ:

• It is very easy to visually distinguish USB 2.0 from 3.0 - the 3.0 connectors are painted blue.

• The second difference, which is easily felt in practice, is the transmission speed. In version 3.0 it is significantly higher. It may be inferior to the stated theoretical speed (5 Gbps), but still remains higher than version 2.0.
• The difference between USB 2.0 and 3.0 is in current strength. In the earlier version it was 500 mA, in the new version it reaches 900 mA. Thus, the new USB can power more powerful devices.
• The old version of USB had 4 wires, the new one has 4 more. Thus, another difference between USB0 and 3.0 is that the second has a thicker cable. This also limited the maximum length of 3.0 cable to 5 meters and made it more expensive.
• Windows XP does not support USB 3.0, even if the computer hardware is physically capable of it, it will work as 2.0. Only older versions of Windows are able to work with 3.0 fully.

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USB 2.0 and 3.0 compatible

If you connect a USB 2.0 device to a 3.0 connector, it will work at level 2.0. If you connect a USB 3.0 device to a 2.0 connector, it will also work at the 2.0 level. Thus, if these interfaces are compatible, the smaller version determines the quality of work.

The devices are capable of running other versions of USB, but they may become less powerful.

So, let me summarize. USB 2.0 and 3.0: the differences are primarily in the quality of work - the newer version is better, although a little more expensive. Modern equipment is produced with interface 3.0, so it is advisable to purchase a computer with this version as well. Devices of different versions are compatible with each other and work acceptably, although their performance decreases.

The new USB Type-C standard is still not widely developed on the market, but manufacturers are gradually adopting the new technology. In smartphones, USB-C can already be called a new trend, because it is not only an improved charging connector, but also a means to abandon the traditional 3.5 mm headphone port. Today we will talk in more detail about USB Type-C, and this article will tell you what it is.

Today, almost all electronic devices are equipped with a USB connector. From desktop computers to smartphones and a variety of laptop storage devices. USB is a ubiquitous standard when it comes to connecting peripherals or transferring data between devices. The last major USB update came in 2013 with the release of USB 3.1, accompanied by the release of a new Type-C connector. As you can see, almost 4 years have passed since then, and Type-C has not taken root.

Currently, you can count on one hand the number of devices on the market that use USB Type-C technology. Among computers, these are the latest laptops from Apple, from Google, a line from Samsung and several more hybrid devices. Among the smartphones - mainly the flagships of the outgoing year:, and.

So why is USB Type-C better than its predecessors? Let's find out.

What is USB Type-C

USB Type-C is a new and currently actively developing industry data transfer standard for computers and mobile devices. The main and most significant innovation of Type-C is a modified connector - universal, symmetrical, capable of working on either side. The USB-C connector was invented by the USB Implementers Forum, a group of companies that developed and certified the new USB standard. It also includes the largest technology companies, namely Apple, Samsung, Dell, HP, Intel and Microsoft. By the way, this is important to know, because USB Type-C was easily accepted by most PC manufacturers.

USB-C is the new standard

First of all, you need to know that USB Type-C is a new industry standard. Just like they once were USB 1.1, USB 2.0, USB 3.0 or the latest USB 3.1. Only previous generations of USB were more focused on increasing data transfer speeds and various other improvements, while Type-C from a physical point of view changes the connector design in a similar way to technology modifications - MicroUSB and MiniUSB. However, the decisive difference in this case is that, unlike MicroUSB and MiniUSB, Type-C is aimed at replacing absolutely all standards, on both sides (example USB-MicroUSB).

Main characteristics:

• 24 signal pins
• USB 3.1 support
• Alternate mode for implementing third-party interfaces
• Speed ​​up to 10 Gbps
• Power transmission up to 100 W
• Dimensions: 8.34x2.56 mm

USB Type-C and USB 3.1

One of the possible questions for those who do not know about USB Type-C could be something like this: what does USB 3.1 have to do with USB Type-C? The fact is that USB 3.1 is the main data transfer protocol for Type-C. The speed of version 3.1 is 10 Gbps - in theory, this is 2 times faster than USB 3.0. USB 3.1 can also be presented in the original connector format - this port is called USB 3.1 Type-A. But today it is much easier to find USB 3.1 with a new Type-C universal connector.

USB versions

To better understand why Type-C will become a replacement for traditional USB versions, it is first necessary to understand the difference between them. There are different versions of USB, and even different connectors - for example, Type-A and Type-B.

USB versions belong to a common standard, but they differ in the maximum data transfer speed and operating power. Of course, there are many other factors.

USB 1.1
Although USB 1.0 is technically the first version of USB, it failed to fully reach the market. Instead, a new version of USB 1.1 was released - it became the first standard to which we are all accustomed. USB 1.1 can transfer data at 12 Mbps and consumes a maximum of 100 mA of current.

USB 2.0
The second version of USB was introduced in April 2000. It provided the standard with a significant increase in maximum data transfer speed - up to 480 Mbit per second. USB 2.0 has also become more powerful, consuming 1.8A at 2.5V.

USB 3.0
The release of USB 3.0 brought with it not only the expected improvements in data transfer speed and power, but also new types of connectors. Moreover, USB 3.0 even got its own color - the new version of the standard was designated blue to valiantly distinguish it from older generations of USB. USB 3.0 can operate at speeds of up to 5 Gbps, using 5V at 1.8A for its operation. By the way, this version was presented in November 2008.

USB 3.1
The latest and greatest version of USB was released in July 2013, although it is still not widely used. USB 3.1 can provide users with a throughput of up to 10 Gbps with a maximum power consumption of 5V/1A, or optionally 5A/12V (60 W) or 20V (100 W).

Type-A
Type-A is the classic USB interface. The short and rectangular plug became the original design for USB and remains the standard connector for use at the host end of a USB cable to this day. There are also some variations of Type-A - Mini Type-A and Micro Type-A, but these have never been widely accepted by the public due to the complex nature of the socket. Currently, both of these Type-A variations are considered obsolete.

Type-B
If Type-A has become one side of the USB cable we are used to, Type-B is the other. The original Type-B is a tall connector with beveled top corners. Commonly found on printers, although itself an extension of the USB 3.0 standard to introduce new connectivity options. The classic MiniUSB and MicroUSB are also available in Type-B versions, along with the absolutely clunky MicroUSB 3.0, which uses additional plugs.

Type-C
So, after Type-A and Type-B, we come, obviously, to the newest Type-C. Type-A and Type-B versions were supposed to work together with each other through backward compatibility, but the arrival of Type-C completely ruined these plans, since USB-C involves a complete replacement of outdated USB connection technologies. Also, Type-C was designed in a special way so that additional variants such as Mini or Micro would not need to be released at all. This, again, is due to the intentions to replace all current connectors with USB Type-C.

The main feature of the Type-C standard is the versatility or symmetry of the connector. USB-C can be used on both sides, similar to Apple's Lightning technology - no more special sides for connection, which are also difficult to find in the dark. Also, the Type-C version is based on USB 3.1, which means it supports all the benefits of the latest version, including the highest speed.

USB-C is still backwards compatible with existing USB variants, but this use case will of course require adapters.

Disadvantages of USB Type-C

Naturally, the new USB Type-C standard also has problems. One of the main and most serious concerns of the latest version of the technology is the physical design of the connector - it is very fragile due to its symmetrical design. Apple, despite the same versatility of its Lightning, uses a durable metal plug that is much more resistant to external influences.

An even more pressing and significant problem with USB Type-C is the unregulated operation of the connector, which has led to a number of dangerous accessories being commercially available. Some of these accessories, by using unsupported voltage levels, can fry the connected device. For example, this was the case with the flagship, which was magnificent at the start, which subsequently began to first ignite and then completely explode in the hands, trousers, cars and apartments of its owners.

This problem has led to an obvious and only solution - a massive ban on the production and sale of non-original accessories that support USB Type-C. Thus, if an accessory does not meet USB Implementers Forum Inc. standard specifications, the product will not be approved for sale. Also, to check the operating status and authenticity of various third-party accessories, USB-IF has introduced software protected by 128-bit encryption that will allow devices with this connector to automatically check the connected device or accessory with USB-C.

Minuses:

• Design. The design of USB Type-C is good, but the design has suffered - it is quite fragile. Apple uses an all-metal plug in its Lightning, while Type-C uses an oval shape with the signal pins placed in the central part.
• Connector operation. Allowing USB Type-C to operate at unsupported voltage levels will likely cause the cable and/or device to catch fire.
• Compatibility. USB Type-C is an innovation in the USB world, but the newest generation leaves older devices in the past because it does not support working with them.
• Adapters. To fully work with USB Type-C on older devices, you will have to buy additional adapters. This is an additional waste of money.

Benefits of USB Type-C

Despite all of the above, USB Type-C can confidently be called a step forward for the industry. Installing this connector will allow manufacturers to make thinner computers and mobile devices with fewer ports, higher data transfer speeds and headphones. In the future, if USB Type-C becomes popular, the connector will be able to replace not only the 3.5 mm headphone port, but also HDMI, the interface used for video transmission. Thus, USB Type-C will replace the connectors that are familiar today and will become a universal standard in any situation.

Pros:

• Symmetry. USB Type-C allows you to forget about situations where you have to remember which side to insert the cable into the connector. Also, from now on you don’t have to worry about not finding the right side of the USB in the dark.
• Compactness. The dimensions of USB Type-C are 8.4x2.6 mm - this allows manufacturers to make computers and mobile devices much thinner.
• Versatility. Thanks to the integration of a single connector, it will be possible to charge both a laptop, a tablet or a smartphone with one cable.