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      • Published 20 Sept 2023
      • Last Modified 23 Apr 2024
    • 7 min

    USB-C Guide: The Universal USB Connector Empowering Every Industry

    Discover the various types of USB-C cables.

    USB-C

    USB-C is the newest standard of USB connector available. With easier insertion, increased speed and power, USB-C will revolutionize every industry.

    Looking for a USB-C cable, connector, adaptor, or even an evaluation board to create your next design? RS Components have the USB-C products you need to keep you connected.

    Driving your USB-C solution

    Driving your USB-C solution

    Driving your USB-C solution

    Take the step to make your next design USB-C compatible with solutions from Texas Instruments. Benefit from the higher data rates and power delivery of the USB-C specification with a range of evaluation modules to take the complexity out of the challenge. 

    Get to market faster and enjoy the benefits of USB-C 

    Find your USB-C solution

    What is USB-C?

    While it may seem as though the Universal Serial Bus (USB) has been around forever, it was only designed in 1996 and entered the mainstream in 1997. We are all familiar with the original rectangular connector for our computers and the smaller one for our phones and cameras, but the new USB-C connector looks a little different and fixes some of the frustrations shared by users around the world.

    • When you try to plug it in, it’s always the other way around.

    A USB-C connector works either way round.

    • Waiting for your photos to download.

    USB-C data rates are considerably faster than earlier standards, which are capable of over 10Gbps.

    • First, plug in the power supply, then the USB cable…

    Capable of handling the new Power Delivery standard (USB PD), USB-C can be designed to transmit up to 100W.

    Advantages of USB-C:

    • Future-proofing: USB-C promotes the adoption of newer USB versions, allowing for higher bandwidths and faster data transfer rates. It is also backwards compatible with older USB versions and supports future USB versions, making it a standard USB type.
    • Smaller and thinner physical profile: USB-C is smaller and thinner compared to USB-A and mini-USB, enabling the design of thinner portable devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and peripherals.
    • Expansive usability and applications: USB-C can support up to 100W of power, making it suitable for charging devices like smartphones and laptops. You can also use it for connecting 4K monitors and faster external storage devices. Interfaces like Thunderbolt 3, HDMI, and DisplayPort are based on USB-C using the USB Alternative Mode feature.
    • Reversible and hassle-free insertion: USB-C is symmetrical and reversible, allowing for easy and frustration-free connection to devices.

    Disadvantages of USB-C:

    • Confusion caused by multiple specifications: USB-C supports different USB versions and interfaces, leading to confusion and compatibility issues for users who may not be aware of the differences. Thunderbolt vs USB-C is a common source of confusion, as both use the same physical connector but have different data transfer speeds and features.
    • Need for definition and labelling: Manufacturers should clearly define and label USB-C ports and cables to indicate the supported USB specifications and features. However, not all manufacturers follow this practice, leading to uncertainty for users. For example, some type-C cables may not support Power Delivery or video output, while some type-C adapters may not support Thunderbolt 3 or HDMI.
    • Need for adapters and converters: As USB-C is still not widely adopted, users may need to purchase additional adapters and converters to connect their USB-C devices to older USB types or other interfaces. This adds to the cost and inconvenience of using USB-C devices.
    What is USB Type-C compatible with

    What is USB Type-C compatible with?

    USB-C is known for its universal utility, and it is compatible with and supported by most modern devices, such as Android phones, Windows PCs, PS5, Xbox Series X, and more. Apple has also begun to transition away from Lightning to USB-C in their latest iPhone model for increased data transfer and charging capabilities. Apple products compatible with USB-C include most iPads and all Mac laptops.

    Get ready to welcome USB Type-C cables and connectors to your computers, peripherals and future designs. Get ahead of the rest with the latest technology at RS.

    More USB-C Product Available

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