The better type si. Why is USB Type-C needed and what devices already have it? key benefits of USB Type-C
The process of mass introduction of the USB interface in PCs and peripheral devices began in the late 90s of the last century. In just a few years, USB has become the de facto standard for connecting peripherals, practically replacing other solutions such as serial and parallel ports, PS / 2, etc.
Moreover, the matter was not limited to computers and peripheral equipment. Convenience, ease of connection and versatility of the USB interface contributed to the spread of this solution in other areas - in particular, in mobile devices ah, consumer audio and video equipment, automotive electronics, etc.
Since the process of improving PCs, mobile devices and other equipment is ongoing, from time to time it becomes necessary to refine the USB interface in order to improve key characteristics (in particular, bandwidth), expand functionality, introduce new connector sizes, etc. All this allows you to adapt the existing solution to the changing needs of the industry.
Of the most notable innovations in recent years, we can recall the introduction of SuperSpeed mode, which appeared in the USB specification version 3.0. The final text of this document was approved at the end of 2008, and over the next couple of years, this decision became widespread.
However, a lot of time has already passed since then, and it is time for the next improvements. In the coming year, the IT industry and you and I are expecting a number of, without exaggeration, revolutionary innovations. It is about them that we will tell in this review.
SuperSpeedPlus Mode
In the summer of 2013, the USB specification version 3.1 was approved. The main innovation, which legalized this document, was the SuperSpeedPlus mode, which allows to double the bandwidth of the data transfer bus of the USB interface: from the previous 5 to 10 Gb / s. For compatibility with older equipment, it is also possible to work in SuperSpeed mode (up to 5 Gb / s). Thus, a USB 3.1 connection will allow (at least theoretically) to transfer data at speeds over 1 GB / s and practically reach the HDMI version 1.4 interface (whose bandwidth is 10.2 Gb / s) in this indicator.
What does this mean in practice? Bands of 10 Gb / s is enough to broadcast high-definition video (Full HD) with a frame refresh rate of up to 60 Hz or stereoscopic recordings in a similar resolution with a frequency of up to 30 Hz. Accordingly, USB 3.1 can be considered as a full-fledged alternative to specialized interfaces (such as DVI and HDMI) for broadcasting high-resolution video from PCs and mobile devices to monitors, projectors and other devices.
USB Type C connector
One of the revolutionary innovations that will affect the PC industry, as well as peripheral and mobile devices in the near future, is the introduction of a new type of USB interface connector. The specification for USB Type C plugs and receptacles was developed by the USB 3.0 Promoter Group and was finalized in August 2014. The design of USB Type C connectors has a number of important features that it makes sense to talk about in detail.
First, USB Type C plugs and sockets are symmetrical. In the USB Type C socket, the plastic tab is located exactly in the middle, and the pads on it are located on both sides. Thanks to this, the plug can be connected to such a socket either in a straight or inverted position by 180 °. This will greatly simplify the life of users, who will finally be relieved of the need to determine the correct orientation of the plug at random (which is especially true when connecting cables to system unit installed under the table).
Secondly, the USB Type C specification provides for the use of balanced cables, which are equipped with the same plugs on both sides. Accordingly, the sockets installed on the host devices and on the peripheral equipment will be the same.
And thirdly, the USB Type C connector will not have mini and micro versions. It is expected that USB Type C sockets and plugs will become common for desktop and laptop PCs, peripheral equipment, consumer equipment, mobile devices, power supplies, etc. Accordingly, to connect devices of any type, you need only one unified cable.
The dimensions of the USB Type C socket are approximately 8.4x2.6 mm, which allows you to easily place it in the case of even small devices. There are several options for the design of sockets for mounting both on the surface of the printed circuit board and in a special cutout (the latter option allows you to reduce the thickness of the device case).
USB Type C plugs and receptacles are designed to last up to 10,000 plugs and unplugs - matching the reliability of current USB plug types.
The first public demonstration of USB Type C connectors and cables took place as part of the IDF Fall 2014 forum, which took place in early September in San Francisco (USA). One of the first mass-produced devices equipped with a USB Type C connector was the tablet announced in mid-November.
Of course, the physical incompatibility of the USB Type C connector with older types of sockets is not the best news for end users. However, the developers from the USB 3.0 Promoter Group decided to take such a radical step in order to expand the functionality of the USB interface, as well as create a reserve for the future. Adapter cables (USB Type C - USB Type A, USB Type C - USB Type B, USB Type C - microUSB, etc.) will be available to connect new devices to equipment equipped with older types of connectors.
USB Power Delivery 2.0
One of the reasons for the current popularity of the USB interface is the ability to transfer not only data, but also power over a single cable. This allows you to simplify the connection procedure as much as possible and reduce the number of wires used. When working with mobile devices, this property of the USB interface provides the ability to transfer and synchronize data from a PC, and at the same time recharge the gadget's battery by connecting just one cable. The same can be said about low-power peripherals. Due to the possibility of transferring power over the interface cable, we have long been relieved of the need to use external power supplies for some peripheral devices - in particular, flatbed scanners, low-power speaker systems, etc. Due to this, it was possible to reduce not only the number of wires on the desktop, but also the occupied sockets under it.
However, the rapid development of mobile devices in recent years has led to a significant change in the requirements not only for the bandwidth of the data bus, but also for the power supply parameters supplied via the USB connection. For charging low power devices (such as MP3 players or wireless headsets) a current of 500 mA is enough (and this, recall, is the maximum value for standard USB ports versions 1.1 and 2.0). However, for normal charging of modern smartphones and tablets, power sources are required that can deliver a current of 2 A or more.
A similar situation is observed in the segment of peripheral devices. The power transferred via USB is enough to provide power to a 2.5-inch external hard drive or a desktop flatbed scanner with a CIS type sensor. However, the USB interface even version 3.0 (and in it the maximum current was increased to 900 mA per port) does not allow supplying electricity to a small inkjet printer or, for example, an LCD monitor.
In order to expand the capabilities of the USB interface to provide power to external devices, the USB Power Delivery 2.0 specification was developed. This document regulates the supply of power to devices with a power consumption of up to 100 W, and in any direction - both from the host device to the peripheral, and vice versa. For example, a laptop will be able to receive power from the monitor to which it is connected via USB.
Of course, the possibilities of supplying power to external devices are limited by the design features of a PC or other device that acts as a power source. That is why the USB Power Delivery 2.0 specification provides three profiles - for devices with power consumption up to 10, 60 and 100 watts. In the first case, the supply voltage is 5 V, and the maximum current in the load circuit can reach 2 A. The second profile provides for the use of a supply voltage of 12 V, and the third - 20 V. The maximum current in the load circuit in both cases is limited to 5 A.
It should be noted that in order to power a powerful load, it is necessary that both devices support the appropriate USB Power Delivery 2.0 profile. Obviously, the maximum power will be limited by the capabilities of the device acting as a power source. There are other aspects to keep in mind as well.
In the event that the current in the power circuit does not exceed 2 A, USB connectors of any currently existing types can be used to connect devices. Connecting a more powerful load is possible only through the USB Type C connectors (which have already been mentioned above) and the corresponding cables. You also need to pay attention to the fact that, unlike USB Type C connectors, the design of standard cables is designed for a maximum current of 3 A. Thus, a special cable is required to connect a more powerful load.
The introduction of the USB Power Delivery 2.0 specification will significantly expand the possibilities for transferring power over the USB interface bus. The implementation of this solution in the future will make it possible to use the USB ports of a desktop computer to recharge not only smartphones, tablets, etc. gadgets, but also mobile PCs - netbooks, laptops, etc. In addition, the range of peripheral devices will be significantly expanded, which can receive the current required for operation via the USB interface bus and, accordingly, do without separate power supplies. This list will be replenished with LCD monitors, active speakers, etc.
Alternate Modes
Another important innovation that will become available with the transition to the USB Type C connector is support for Functional Extensions. A special case of functional extensions are the so-called alternative modes (Alternate Modes, AM). With their help, manufacturers will be able to use the physical connection of the USB interface to implement the specific features and functions of certain devices.
For example, the Audio Adapter Accessory Mode allows you to use the physical USB interface connection to broadcast an analog audio signal to headphones, external speakers, and other equipment. To a device equipped with a USB Type C connector and supporting Audio Adapter Accessory Mode, you can connect headphones or an external speaker through a special adapter equipped with a 3.5 mm mini-jack jack.
Support for alternative modes is one of the features of a new class of USB devices - the USB Billboard Device Class. Manufacturers who intend to develop their own alternative modes need to obtain a unique identifier (SVID) from the USB-IF organization.
In 2014, the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) developed the DisplayPort Alternate Mode specification. This solution allows you to use two pairs of USB cable conductors (TX+/TX– and RX+/RX–) to broadcast an uncompressed digital AV stream. At the same time, it is possible to transfer data (in Low Speed, Full Speed and Hi-Speed modes via a D+/D– pair), as well as power supply via the same interface cable. Thus, by connecting two devices that support DisplayPort Alternate Mode, you can broadcast audio and video signals, transfer data in both directions at speeds up to 480 Mbps, and also supply power - all through one cable!
Devices that support DisplayPort Alternate Mode can also be connected to equipment that does not have USB Type C ports (in particular, monitors, TVs, etc.). The specification of this mode provides options for connecting to DisplayPort, HDMI or DVI interfaces through special adapters.
In November 2014, the MHL consortium announced the development of the MHL Alternate Mode, which will allow broadcasting uncompressed audio and video (including high and ultra high definition) from mobile devices equipped with a USB Type C connector to external equipment (monitors, TVs, projectors etc.) via a standard USB cable. Specialists from Nokia, Samsung Electronics, Silicon Image, Sony and Toshiba took part in the development of the specification.
The introduction of alternative modes will significantly expand the functionality of the USB interface and simplify the procedure for connecting devices of various types to the limit.
Conclusion
Concluding this review, let's once again list the most important innovations, the process of introducing which into mass-produced devices equipped with a USB interface will begin in the near future.
The SuperSpeedPlus data transfer mode described in the USB specification version 3.1 will increase the maximum bandwidth of this interface to 10 Gb / s. Of course, this is less than HDMI 2.0 and Thunderbolt 2 (which, remember, provide data transfer at speeds up to 18 and 20 Gb / s, respectively). However, 10 Gbps is enough to transmit uncompressed HD video at frame rates up to 60 Hz. In addition, representatives of USB-IF said that in future versions of USB it is quite possible to increase the throughput to 20 Gb / s - fortunately, the design of the new USB Type C connectors and the corresponding cables has a certain margin for further development.
The introduction of support for the USB Power Delivery 2.0 specification will significantly increase the maximum power delivered over a USB connection. Accordingly, the range of peripheral and mobile devices that can be powered via an interface cable will be expanded. The widespread implementation of this solution will significantly reduce the number of cables and external power supplies used, reduce the number of occupied sockets and use electricity more efficiently.
The emergence of USB Billboard Device Class devices with support for alternative modes will open up completely new possibilities. At the same time, each manufacturer will be able to create their own modes for devices of various types, taking into account their specifics.
Of course, one of the revolutionary changes that will affect the areas of PCs, peripherals and mobile devices, consumer equipment, etc. will be the introduction of the USB Type C connector, which is supposed to replace the USB plugs and sockets currently in use. On the one hand, the transition to a single connector for devices of all types will greatly simplify the life of users and reduce the number of cables required to a minimum. But, on the other hand, the industry and users will have to go through a very difficult and painful process of generational change. Previous solutions were distinguished by maximum compatibility: the design of conventional USB Type A and Type B plugs allows you to easily connect them to the corresponding version 3.0 sockets. Now, to connect devices of different generations, you will have to use additional devices.
The USB 3.1 specification is backward compatible with earlier versions of the interface. However, with the advent of mass-produced devices equipped with a USB Type C connector, users will inevitably be faced with the need to purchase adapters and adapters that provide the ability to connect new devices to older equipment with USB Type A, Type B and other types of sockets. Considering that about 4 billion devices equipped with a USB interface are currently produced annually, this problem will be very relevant for at least the next five to six years.
It should also be noted that the full potential of the USB version 3.1 interface and the USB Type C connector in practice will be possible only when users accumulate at least a minimum amount of equipment equipped with these new products. Obviously, in the case of interaction between two devices of different generations, the functionality and maximum bandwidth of the interface will be limited by the characteristics of the USB controller of the older device.
According to experts from the well-known Taiwanese resource DigiTimes, serial models of PCs, as well as mobile and peripheral devices equipped with USB 3.1 interface and USB Type C connectors, will go on sale in the first half of 2015. On the other hand, leading developers operating systems and software have already announced their readiness to release updates to implement USB 3.1 support in their products.
Google and Apple recently launched new mobile computers, although the machines are completely different, they have something in common: both computers have USB Type-C ports. So what is USB Type-C? Let's see.
The two most famous devices that already have a USB Type-C port are the new Google Chromebook Pixel and the new Macbook. However, USB 3.1 and Type-C connectors will become the standard over the next few years.
Each of us is probably familiar with the USB port. If you have a computer, then most likely you have used a USB flash drive, or maybe connected a printer to a USB port. If you have an Android smartphone, then you know that the USB port can be used for recharging or transferring data to and from the phone. The USB port has been everywhere for a long time. It first came into widespread use when Microsoft in Windows 98 and Apple included support for it to remove the keyboard and mouse ports. This happened almost 20 years ago, and little has changed since then.
The USB 1.1 port can transfer data at a speed of 12 Mbps, that is, 1.4 megabytes per second. In those days, a floppy disk was 1.4 megabytes, so that was high speed. The USB 2.0 port was released in 2000, which could theoretically pass 480Mbps. However, its actual average speed is approximately 280 Mbps, which is about 35 megabytes per second.
The USB 3.0 port was announced in 2008 and allows for theoretical transfer speeds of up to 5.0 Gbps. However, the actual speed achieved is about 400 megabytes per second, not bad, right?.
On desktop PCs, USB 1.1, 2.0 and 3.0 ports used the same type of connector, and then micro-B or mini-B on peripheral devices (phone, camera, etc.).
The situation has changed somewhat with the advent of USB 3.1 ports. As you'd expect, the USB 3.1 port is even faster than its predecessors, so fast it can be used to connect 4K displays. This means that in the future in laptops and PCs, we will not see HDMI or VGA connectors, users will see a new type of port. In other words, type "A" and "B" is history. The new connector is called USB Type-C. So, what does the new USB Type-C port give us, and why can't Type-A and B provide it?
First, the new USB Type-C connectors are not big. And this suggests that we will no longer need mini or micro ports, which means there will be no confusion with the choice of the right cable. The Type-C connector is small enough for smartphones and powerful enough for PCs, and even for server use.
Secondly, the USB Type-C port can withstand a load of 100W, which means that it can be used not only to charge smartphones, but also to power many other devices that previously required a different power source (power supply). In the future, your printer may only need one USB Type-C cable to provide both power and data transfer.
Thirdly, the Type-C cable is double-sided - now it doesn't matter how you connect it. There is no more need to look closely which side to connect the cable.
Finally, the USB Type-C cable uses a new small connector on both ends, no longer using type "A" on one end and type "B" on the other. Now you can really connect the cable as you like, and it will just work!
The two most famous devices that already have a USB Type-C port are the new Google Chromebook Pixel and the new Macbook. However, USB 3.1 and Type-C connectors will become the standard over the next few years. Since it is backwards compatible, you will need a passive adapter to connect devices that work on previous versions of USB ports. So that the companies that will switch new technology, will not alienate their existing customers.
Adam Rodriguez, Product Manager at Google stated that “We are USB Type-C advocates. You'll see it on many Chromebooks and Android devices in the near future." It is worth noting that the Type-C connector can get devices that do not even support USB 3.1 yet. For example, mid-range smartphones may use the new connector without actually having support for the new USB standard. This will make it easier to switch to a new type of connector, but it can cause some confusion when the port does not provide high speed as expected.
The latest line of Type-C ports (and USB 3.1) takes the best of the beloved USB and makes it even better by providing a versatile connector size that will work well with both mobile phones and personal computers.
Today I will tell you about various USB type-C cables. And I will try to dispel doubts about their expediency. The review contains cables from Orico, which are designed to connect your device with a newfangled connector to a computer or other device with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports.
The USB type-C connector is only gaining popularity and many have not only “not seen it”, but also do not understand what innovations are behind it. On the basis of which opinions like “everything will burn” and “why do I need another connector?” Are distributed.
I will try to tell in my own words. The rest can find the specification "USB Type-C Specification Release 1.1.pdf". .
In the text, I use the word "connector" as a generic word for the concepts of "connector", "socket", "connector", "port", etc.
Historical information
And now on the fingers. A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, a data transfer specification called "USB" v1.0 was developed. Then USB 1.1 struck back. USB 2.0 went to the masses. And USB 3.0, although not universally, has successfully settled in various devices. The USB 3.1 standard introduced clarifications and amendments. And, most importantly, each standard had a bunch of corresponding connectors. By connector to different types devices with different purposes and partial backward compatibility - USB type-A, USB micro-A, USB Micro-B SuperSpeed.It was the accumulated diversity and incomplete compatibility that brought confusion, inconvenience and gave rise to many jokes. So, the new USB type-C standard has become a “new hope”. It doesn't change the data transfer standard (but it actually adds). This is a connector standard that combines the advantages of the connectors of all previous USB standards and avoids their disadvantages.
USB type-C properties
Main new introductions:
- one connector for everything (for printers, smartphones, flash drives ... monitors!)
- mirror connector (no need to guess which side to insert it)
- small dimensions (it is slightly larger than micro USB)
- the connector is very securely fixed in the socket (hooray!)
- must withstand up to 10,000 connections
- the connector supports USB 1.0 - USB 3.1 standards
- it offers devices to independently decide who will be the master/slave and power source/consumer
- the cable can be passive and active (with electronics inside)
Main old introductions:
- the standard does not define the length of the wire, it is already defined in the data transmission standards
- the connector can withstand up to 5A, but this is described in the BC1.2 and Power Delivery standards
Next, you can talk about DisplayPort integration, audio transmission and more. And I will try to do this in future reviews, but for now, let's look at the implementation of three USB type-C cables with backward compatibility.
Unboxing
And only now consider the received package. Got to the reviewEach of them is packed in a bag, in a cardboard box and in one more bag. Two of the three boxes were wrinkled during transportation. All cables are exactly 1 meter long, 3 mm thick (except LCU-10-BK, it is 4 mm). The wires are a little stiff and are happy to return to their old position.
Pinout
What brings versatility to backwards compatibility?In the USB 2.0 - USB 3.1 standards, master/slave roles are defined through the shape of the connector.
In the USB type-C standard, master/slave roles are defined through a pull-up resistor to ground or power. So plugging in just one cable tells the USB type-C device what to expect on the other end.
test stand
The stand itself looks like this.
I have already tested various cables on it, so there is something to compare. The charger is powerful enough and has good output voltage stability. The tester used can load the charger with a current of a given value and save all measurement data.
The table contains the results of cable measurements at different currents. 
* Direct column shows voltages without any cable. The rest of the columns need to be compared with Direct and with each other.
* gray column ECU10bk shows the result enable USB type-C connector on the other side.
* the rest of the gray columns contain some of the cables I measured earlier.
Summary
So far, there are very few devices with a new connector, and the article is intended for those lucky ones whowho are looking for similar "bridges" between generations.
* The USB type-C connector showed itself in all its glory. It is easily inserted, firmly held and removed with effort. And it has a mirror arrangement of contacts.
* the most popular cable ECU-10-BK (USB type-C to USB type-A) showed good results. It can painlessly pass through itself about 2A. But yes, he does not reach his meter relatives.
* a slightly specific cable LCU-10-BK (USB type-C to micro USB 3.0) suddenly showed completely identical results with different cable thicknesses and different connectors. Even strange somehow.
* what happened to the MCU-10-BK (USB type-C to micro USB 2.0) cable I can't say. Maybe it's just a marriage.
P.S. speed characteristics will be checked, but in another review. 
The product was provided for writing a review by the store. The review is published in accordance with clause 18 of the Site Rules.
I plan to buy +8 Add to favorites Liked the review +22 +29Most users, choosing a new smartphone, tablet or laptop, find an unfamiliar interface in the description of the device. It's called the USB Type-C connector. What is this port? Few people really know about it. Although USB Type-C promises to become a new trend and gradually be introduced to all devices that are equipped with classic USB. After all, it offers increased speed and improved functionality. Want to know more? We will be happy to tell you in more detail about USB Type-C and why it is gradually being introduced into many gadgets.
Currently, almost all devices are equipped with a USB connector (more precisely, USB type-A). From PCs to smartphones and a variety of drives with laptops. USB is the ubiquitous and most popular standard.
It first appeared in the world in November 1995. The standard itself was called USB 1.0. It has not received wide distribution. But his "brother" USB 1.1 in the late 90s of the last century began to be present on the back panel of almost everyone. True, manufacturers of peripheral devices did not immediately switch to this standard. It took a couple of years for keyboards, mice, printers, and other accessories to come with a USB port.
Finally, in 2001 they developed the USB 2.0 standard, which to this day is the most common. It provided a data transfer rate of almost 500 Mbps. But the real breakthrough was the USB 3.0 specification. After all, the transfer rate within this interface was 5 Gb / s. What other innovations came with it? There are 5 additional contacts, and the maximum current has increased from 500 mA to 900 mA.
The latest step towards the advent of USB Type-C was the adoption of the 3.1 standard. It happened in 2013. Just this standard introduced a new Type-C connector (replaced the usual Type-A), with power support up to 100 W and twice the data transfer rate compared to USB 3.0 (up to 10 Gb / s).
Learn more about USB Type-C and its benefits
So what is USB Type-C? In fact, this is a new modification of the standard USB. And outwardly, this connector looks like a thinner port. Its dimensions are only 8.34x2.56 mm. This is about 1/3 of the "old" USB Type-A. That is, the dimensions are very close to lightning in iPhones and micro usb in android smartphones.
The shape of the connector is oval and symmetrical. Due to which users do not have to guess which side to insert the USB flash drive or the end of the cable into the device, as it was before. This can be done without looking at all, in the dark or with one hand. Thus, USB Type-C is very convenient. And also safe. After all, you can connect the connector in any position without fear of breaking the connector.
What other benefits does USB Type-C have? There are quite a few of them:
- Versatility and compatibility. It can function in many modes and support different protocols. That is, if desired, it is easy to connect HDMI, VGA, DisplayPort cables and other options for connecting a PC or laptop with peripherals to such a connector. True, special adapters are required. After all, how else to “shove” a bulky and huge connector from a printer or mouse into a thin modern port? In addition, the USB 3.1 standard is highly compatible with previous versions of USB. To connect old peripherals to the Type-C port, only an adapter adapter is required.
- compactness. Due to its miniature size, it can be used in netbooks, smartphones, tablets and other various devices. At the same time, actively introducing the USB Type-C interface, you can make the equipment even more elegant, thinner and more compact.
- Ability to power other devices. As we have already noted, USB 3.1 increased the maximum transmitted power to 100 W (with the USB Power Delivery specification!). For comparison, the average laptop requires about 60 watts. That is, it can be safely charged via USB Type-C (which is already implemented on the new MacBook and Pixel Chromebook from Google). Whereas the USB 2.0 port provides a current transfer of only a maximum of two and a half watts. This is enough for a maximum of incomplete and long-term recharging of a weak smartphone. It turns out that when connecting various peripheral devices via USB Type-C, you can do without an additional power source, limiting yourself to one cord.
- High speed. When using the USB 3.1 standard, a data transfer rate of 10 Gb / s is achieved. This is really a great indicator. Even if it's far from a record. After all, it is not as fast as the Thunderbolt 2 interface, implemented in the MacBook Air and Pro models, where the speed reaches 20 Gb / s.
What happens? The release of USB Type-C involves the complete replacement of outdated USB connection technologies. That is why this interface was designed. His "mission" is to make sure that all sorts of options such as mini or micro usb do not need to be released at all. Also, the new standard is intended to make all cords that are used to charge devices universal. The idea is good, but how is it implemented now?
Are there any disadvantages?
Are there disadvantages of USB Type-C? It didn't work without them. Experts attribute the following to the minuses:
- The physical design of the connector and plug turned out to be quite fragile due to their small size. Although numerous tests have shown that the mechanical life of the USB Type-C connector is about 10,000 connections. And this is no less than USB 2.0.
- Another drawback is that adapters are required for full-fledged work with USB Type C. Otherwise, many devices simply cannot be connected through this interface.
- USB Type-C should only work with cables, accessories, and gadgets that can withstand a certain level of voltage. Otherwise, there is a high risk that the cord and/or device will catch fire. Something similar happened with the flagship model of the Samsung Galaxy Note 7, when using which cases of explosion of the device were repeatedly recorded. Therefore, to connect via USB Type-C, you should not buy cheap products from China. Only reliable trusted brands.
For reference! If you need a cable not only for connection, but also for recharging, then you should check if it supports USB Power Delivery. In turn, to connect via HDMI, MHL or DisplayPort, you will need a USB-C cable with an alternative mode function.
Is there a difference between USB Type-C and USB 3.1?
Is USB Type-C the same as USB 3.1? Of course not. It is correct to say this: USB 3.1 is the main data transfer protocol for Type-C. And the latter is just a geometric shape. No more. You can put USB 2.0 in it, and its "descendant" - 3.0. Hypothetically, nothing prevents us from implementing USB 1.1 within the framework of this port and the “venerable old man” plug.
By the way, some manufacturers do just that. Take the same Nokia N1 tablet. It comes with a new USB Type-C connector, but inside it is the same familiar and familiar USB 2.0 bus logic.
Modern devices with USB Type-C
Note that there are still few devices with USB 3.1 these days. The technology is new. Therefore, the standard did not have time to take root and become widespread. Devices with a USB Type-C cable / connector are not so widely represented on the market.
If we talk about smartphones, then these are:
- Google Nexus 6P
- Google Nexus 5X
- Microsoft Lumia 950XL
- Meizu Pro 6
- Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+
- LG Nexus 5X etc.
Of course, that's not all. "Usb type c" with full support for USB 3.1 is on motherboard MSI Z97A Gaming 6. The popular ASUS X99-A and ASUS Z97-A motherboards also support USB version 3.1. (only they don’t have a Type-C connector).
It will not be difficult to meet on the shelves of computer stores and flash drives with a new port. For example, SanDisk recently introduced a 32-gigabyte drive with two connectors: classic USB Type-A and USB Type-C. And this is not an isolated example. So, in the assortment of the well-known manufacturer of computer components LaCie there is an external HDD for MacBook with USB 3.1 Type-C support. This interface is also present on the Transcend JetFlash 890.
At the same time, formally the first device equipped with a USB Type-C port was the Nokia N1 tablet. "Supported" him then and the MacBook with a 12-inch display. The creators of the "apple" laptop also decided to introduce the public to the new USB Type-C by equipping their model with this connector.
It turns out that USB Type-C is still a rarity? Essentially, yes. But the gradual introduction of this interface has begun and this is the most important thing.
Why is USB Type-C still not popular?
Many experts say with certainty that one day USB Type-C will replace the various options for USB ports, becoming the only standard for various devices - laptops, PCs, smartphones, tablets, players, etc. In the future, most likely, this connector will really be able to be replaced and a 3.5 mm headphone port, and an HDMI interface, which is used today for video transmission.
However, why has USB Type-C not yet become mega-popular and widespread? Everything is extremely simple. In the event of a complete transition to this standard, all existing equipment will have to be scrapped. Be it a smartphone, tablet, PC, flash drive, etc.
What if you use adapter cables, all kinds of splitters and adapters? It's not an option. If the connected device does not support usb 3.1, then the connection is simply pointless, because the maximum data transfer rate and power support will not be reached.
Therefore, it takes time for the old ports to become a thing of the past, and USB Type-C can replace them painlessly. How much will it take? Probably a couple of years. Only the support of "big" companies that will actively implement this standard can speed up the process. At the same time, it is possible that progress will soon offer us a new interface that can send USB Type-C to "retirement" ahead of schedule.
In 2015, Apple released its first gadget equipped with a new and, surprisingly, the only USB Type-C port. , which has only one port, caused a flurry of discontent among the company's fans.
And then they endured, fell in love, and Apple to this day not only very successfully sells the 12-inch line of ultrabooks, but also equipped the MacBook Pro series with USB Type-C, completely abandoning the classic USB 2.0 / 3.0, and indeed any additional ports .
Almost three years have passed since the release of the MacBook, but users still have questions about the operation of the newfangled USB Type-C port. Particularly concerned about the selection of cables and accessories.
In this material, we will deal with all the nuances of the new standard. I will try to present the material so that after reading it there will be no more questions, and everything will become known about the USB Type-C ports in the MacBook and MacBook Pro.
Where did USB-C come from and where the problem crept in
The USB standard itself appeared back in 1994. USB 1.0 was conceived as a universal port for connecting all kinds of equipment to a PC. It began to be actively used only in the 2000s.
USB 2.0. Then it was time for USB 2.0. USB 2.0 cables are strictly oriented and come in two connector types: USB Type-A and USB Type-B. With the growing popularity of mobile devices, two more types of connectors will later appear: USB Micro-B and USB Mini-B.
Data was transmitted over two cables, usually green and white, while black and red were responsible for power.
The maximum transfer rate for USB 2.0 is 480 Mbps. The main disadvantage of the standard is too low currents ( no more than 500 mA), which often caused problems when connecting external drives.
USB 3.0. Determined to eliminate the shortcomings of USB 2.0, engineers are developing a new standard - USB 3.0. "Blue USB" became significantly faster and was able to transfer data at speeds up to 5 Gbps.
Perhaps this was due to the appearance of four additional communication lines, and, as a result, an increase in the maximum current up to 900 mA.
In the fall of 2013, the specifications for the updated USB 3.1 Type-C standard were approved. Since then, life has not been the same.
What is USB Type-C anyway?
Despite the fact that the engineers had already released three iterations of the USB standard, the main question still remained open to them. It was necessary to provide proper nutrition.
A miserable current of 900 mA to feed the same laptop battery for 8-10 thousand mAh is clearly not enough. In addition, more power-demanding accessories began to appear on the market, and the tendency of manufacturers to make devices thinner and more compact forced them to abandon ports such as HDMI, Thunderbolt, classic USB, Ethernet.
Instead of 8-pin USB 3.0, 24-pin USB 3.1 Type C appears. Why are there so many of them? Judge for yourself:
The new USB Type-C specification opened up a number of new possibilities for users at once.
Firstly, USB Type-C has a new USB PD standard, according to which this port and the corresponding cables must be capable of transmitting up to 100 W of current in both directions.
Secondly, impressive data transfer rates. Thunderbolt 3 Alternate Mode can transfer data at speeds up to 40Gbps. Of course, with certain “ifs”, but more on that below.
Thirdly, he can transmit video with a resolution of up to 5K. The speed here is with a margin and the need for HDMI simply disappears.
Finally, USB Type-C is convenient because “no matter how you plug it in,” it will work. It is bilateral. A logical continuation of the Lightning cable, but now not only for Apple devices.
And what then is installed in the MacBook and MacBook Pro?
Before we deal with the choice of cables and USB Type-C accessories, we need to deal with those USB Type-C ports that are installed in MacBooks.
Alas, the USB Promoter Group has screwed up a lot with the USB 3.1 specification, spawning several generations of ports and finally confusing users.
Let's unravel this Gordian knot.
So, here are all the generations of MacBooks and the corresponding USB Type-C ports installed in them.
That is, you should immediately understand that if you have a 12-inch MacBook, you can forget about Thunderbolt 3 support, which means it’s stupid to overpay for support for this specification when choosing a cable.
The MacBook 12″ supports video transmission via HDMI, VGA and DisplayPort (with appropriate adapters), but it will not work with Thunderbolt devices.
With MacBook Pro 2016 and newer, things are a lot more interesting. The 13-inch MacBook Pros until the recent update only had (those on the left) Thunderbolt 3 support.
In 2018, all four ports on TouchBar models are fully capable of transferring data at full speed. The 12-inch MacBook has remained unchanged.
Choosing the right cable for specific tasks
The choice of USB Type-C cable directly depends on the task that you are pursuing. This specification is very broad and has certain limitations.
1. For charging
USB Type-C supports charging power up to 100W. Macbooks come with an appropriate charging cable with a built-in controller that limits the maximum charging power.
The 12-inch MacBook comes with a cable with a maximum charging power of up to 61W. With MacBook Pro 13 and 15 inches 87W respectively.
And this means only one thing: if you connect a 61-watt cable to an 87-watt charger and try to charge a MacBook Pro 15 "", say, 2018, then charging will take place at a power of 61 watts. That is one and a half times slower.
This is true for other certified charging cable manufacturers as well.
Is it possible connect macbook to high power charger? Can. Instead of the bundled 29W power supply, you can power it with a 15-inch MacBook Pro 87W charger. This is not scary, but there will be no miracle and the MacBook will not charge faster.
And yes, it's not bad. MacBook will take exactly as much as it can. By the way, the story is the same with the iPad.
To finally solve the issues with charging and get a cable "for all occasions", you can opt for the original 2-meter USB-C cable for 1,490 rubles.
2. For video signal transmission like HDMI
You decide to connect an external monitor or TV to your MacBook or MacBook Pro. Let's figure out what to use to transfer a video stream in conjunction with USB Type-C.
First and foremost, determine which input port your external monitor or TV is equipped with.
For HDMI. There is a universal option that will not only add a standard USB 2.0 / 3.0 port and HDMI to MacBooks, but will also duplicate USB Type-C. It costs 5,490 rubles.
For VGA. A similar, but more archaic solution for VGA for the same 5,490 rubles.
For Thunderbolt 3. There are already several models of Thunderbolt 3 displays on the market (12-inch MacBooks are passing by). 0.8 meters of such a cable will cost 3,190 rubles.
The same option can be used for charging (up to 100 W). Having overpaid 2 thousand rubles and bought this cable instead of a USB Type-C charging cable, you will get a truly universal cord that supports data transfer at speeds up to 40 Gb / s.
Important. Don't go for length. Two-meter and half-meter cables with Thunderbolt 3 support are two different things.
But, here it is necessary to bring some clarity.
3. For connecting USB 2.0/USB 3.0 devices
Perhaps the only case when there are no problems with adapters. The same standard USB Type-C -> USB adapter for 1,490 rubles. capable of delivering up to 5 Gbps.
That's what the USB Type-C port on the 12-inch MacBook family is designed for.
4. For maximum data rate (5K and 4K 60Hz)
40 Gb / s - as much as possible to transfer USB Type-C gen 2 with Thunderbolt 3 support. But this is under ideal conditions.
To ensure this speed, the cable length must not exceed 18 inches or 45 centimeters. Otherwise, the speed drops sharply.
But even here everything is not so clear. Thunderbolt 3 cords fall into two categories: passive and active. And you should pay attention to this if speed is important to you.
The first, with a length of two meters, transmit data at half the speed, that is, at the level of 20 Gb / s, or even less.
Active ones have a special transmitter that controls the transmission rate along the entire length of the cable. These laces maintain speed.
