Term of the Moment
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Definition: USB Type C
The latest USB connector, introduced in 2014. Using a plug and socket slightly larger than Micro USB, Type C was designed to replace all USB connectors. Within a year, various Android phones switched from Micro USB to Type C. See USB.
More Speed and Power
USB Type C supports multi-lane USB 3.2, which increased the transfer rate to 20 Gbps. At the base level, USB-C supports 5 volts at 3 amps, but ports can implement up to 20 volts at 5 amps (100 watts). See USB Power Delivery and USB 3.2.
Alternate Modes for Video
USB Type C also supports alternate modes for common video interfaces such as HDMI, MHL and DisplayPort. For example, a single C-to-C cable from laptop to monitor could send DisplayPort signals to the monitor while the monitor charges the laptop. See HDMI, MHL and DisplayPort.
Beware of Non-Compliant A-to-C Cables
USB Type C devices can draw more current than earlier Type A ports can deliver. Therefore, if a Type C device is used with a Type A 2.0 or 3.0 port, the cable should have a 56K Ohm resistor to prevent the port or computer from being damaged.
Type C Is Reversible
USB-C Is Replacing Micro USB
The Mess
Storage That Plugs Into A and C
Conversion to Type C
A Different Type A and C in Europe
More Speed and Power
USB Type C supports multi-lane USB 3.2, which increased the transfer rate to 20 Gbps. At the base level, USB-C supports 5 volts at 3 amps, but ports can implement up to 20 volts at 5 amps (100 watts). See USB Power Delivery and USB 3.2.
Alternate Modes for Video
USB Type C also supports alternate modes for common video interfaces such as HDMI, MHL and DisplayPort. For example, a single C-to-C cable from laptop to monitor could send DisplayPort signals to the monitor while the monitor charges the laptop. See HDMI, MHL and DisplayPort.
Beware of Non-Compliant A-to-C Cables
USB Type C devices can draw more current than earlier Type A ports can deliver. Therefore, if a Type C device is used with a Type A 2.0 or 3.0 port, the cable should have a 56K Ohm resistor to prevent the port or computer from being damaged.
USB Type C (right) is smaller than the traditional Type A. USB-C is also reversible and can be plugged into the port in either orientation. See reversible plug.
The first USB Type C implementations were smartphones. For example, in 2017, Samsung switched its Galaxy line from Micro USB to USB-C.
USB Type C was designed to replace all previous USB connectors. Apple also switched its proprietary ports to Type C. The A-to-B host-to-peripheral interface is expected to become obsolete because USB-C ports can recognize which side is which (see USB Type B).
Kingston's microDuo USB drive plugs into Type A and C. (Image courtesy of Kingston Technology Corporation, www.kingston.com)
As soon as USB Type C debuted, conversion cables for existing USB ports came on the market.
The standard electrical outlet in Europe is Type C, but it has nothing to do with USB. (Image courtesy of Recreational Equipment, Inc., www.rei.com)