Usb type c pinout. How to switch to USB Type-C and why to do it

Lately, surprising people is even easier than it seems. When they showed us the USB Type-C connector, everyone just gasped, because it's so cool, now you can even charge your device at night the first time. But is it worth it? Maybe USB Type-C is not as good as it seems? Maybe he doesn't need it at all? Yes maybe…

Lately, surprising people is even easier than it seems. When they showed us the USB Type-C connector, everyone just gasped, because it's so cool, now you can even charge your device at night the first time. But is it worth it? Maybe USB Type-C is not as good as it seems? Maybe he doesn't need it at all?

Yes, it can be good to be able to charge your smartphone when you are drunk. Or maybe it's just another marketing ploy of big companies so that you once again buy yourself a new tablet or smartphone? In this article, we have described five reasons why you do not need USB Type-C now.

1. USB Type-C does not mean "fast charging"

One of the most common myths about this connector is that it will charge your devices faster. This is not true. It's just a new version connector. Type-C is the same as previous standards, fast charging has nothing to do with it. Despite the fact that it supports the USB 3.1 standard, which brings a number of improvements, you should not think that this will be the case on all smartphones.

OnePlus 2 is the most striking example of this. It has a USB Type-C connector, but the USB 2.0 standard, which does not give it any advantages other than a "universal" cable over older smartphones. In addition, there is not yet a single smartphone that supports the new connector type and mode. fast charging batteries.

2. There will not be a huge data transfer rate either

The second myth is the assumption that with it you will be able to transfer data at the speed of light, compared to older solutions. Here, too, everything depends on such industry standards as USB 2.0, 3.0, 3.1. It is from these standards that the data transfer rate depends, but not from the shape of the cable.

3. You will have to keep it as the “apple of an eye”

If you are going somewhere to go on vacation and forgot at home MicroUSB cable then there is nothing to worry about, because you can charge your smartphone with a charger from a tablet, or you can even use someone else's cable to charge, because this standard distributed throughout the world.

But the owners of the same OnePlus 2 will still have to endure who knows how long and carry the cable all the time in their pocket or backpack. After all, if the battery of your smartphone “dies”, then there will simply be nowhere to charge it. That is why, devices with such connectors need to be bought at least a year later, when a sufficient number of smartphones / tablets with this type of charger are already on the market. So do not chase the desire to get into the connector even at night, because to this you will have another significant problem that I described above.

4. The cable is rare and expensive

If you suddenly lose your cable, then you will have a hard time. Firstly, in a short time it is almost impossible to find it. Secondly, if you find it, then its value is much higher than you think. And all because now the demand for this product is minimal.

5. Old accessories will become useless

Surely, you, like me, have a huge box of various trinkets and accessories for your smartphone. After purchasing the main unit with USB connector Type-C all of them will become useless in an instant. Since the "old" Type-A connectors are physically incompatible with the new type of cable. Of course, special adapters will help you, but think about it, is it worth it?

Recently, more and more phones and smartphones have appeared on the market, which use a new connector called USB Type-C instead of the traditional Micro USB. This type connector appeared not so long ago and so far they understand what it is and how it works.

If you also have questions related to USB Type-C, then we suggest that you read this article. Here you will learn what USB Type-C is, how it differs from Micro USB, and which is better to choose. If you are also interested

What is USB Type-C in phones and smartphones

USB interface logo.

In order to understand what USB Type-C is, you need to make a short digression into the history of this interface. is a computer interface that appeared in the mid-1990s and has since been actively used to connect peripherals to the computer. With the advent of smartphones given interface began to be used in them, a little later, USB began to be used in ordinary mobile phones with buttons.

Initially, the USB standard included only two types of connectors: Type-A and Type-B. The Type-A connector was used to connect to a device on the side of which a hub or controller was used USB interface. The Type-A connector, on the contrary, was used on the side of the peripheral device. Thus, a conventional USB cable included two Type-A connectors, which connected to a computer or other control device, and Type-B, which connected to a peripheral device.

In addition, both Type-A and Type-B have smaller versions of connectors, which are designated as Mini and Micro. The result is a fairly large list of different connectors: regular USB Type-A, Mini Type-A, Micro Type-A, regular Type-B, Mini Type-B and Micro USB Type-B, which is commonly used in phones and smartphones and is better known as Micro USB.

Comparison of different connectors.

With the release of the third version of the USB standard, several additional connectors appeared that supported USB 3.0, these are: USB 3.0 Type-B, USB 3.0 Type-B Mini and USB 3.0 Type-B Micro.

This whole zoo of connectors no longer corresponded to modern realities, in which easy-to-use connectors, such as those from Apple, were gaining popularity. Therefore, along with the USB 3.1 standard, a new type of connector called USB Type-C (USB-C) was introduced.

The advent of USB Type-C solved several problems at once. First, USB Type-C was originally compact, so there is no need to use the Mini and Micro versions of the connector. Secondly, USB Type-C can be connected to both peripherals and computers. This eliminates the scheme in which Type-A was connected to a computer, and Type-B to a peripheral device.

In addition, USB Type-C supports a lot of other innovations and useful features:

• The data transfer rate is from 5 to 10 Gb / s, and with the introduction of USB 3.2, this speed can increase to 20 Gb / s.
• Backward compatible with previous USB standards. Using a special adapter, a device with a USB Type-C connector can be connected to a regular USB of previous versions.
• Symmetric connector design that allows you to connect the cable in either direction (same as Apple's Lightning).
• The USB Type-C cable can be used to quickly charge mobile phones, smartphones, as well as compact laptops.
• Support for alternative modes of operation in which USB cable Type-C can be used to transfer information over other protocols (DisplayPort, MHL, Thunderbolt, HDMI, VirtualLink).

What is the difference between USB Type-C and Micro USB

USB Type-C (top) and Micro USB cables.

Users who choose mobile phone or a smartphone, are often interested in the difference between USB Type-C and Micro USB. Below we have compiled the main differences and advantages of these connectors.

• USB Type-C is the connector for the future. If you choose flagship smartphone, which you plan to use for several years, then you should pay attention to models with USB Type-C. This connector is actively gaining popularity and in the future more and more devices with its support will appear. Do not be afraid of problems with connecting to a computer. If your computer is not equipped with this connector, then you can always connect your phone using an adapter.
• USB Type-C is convenient. Thanks to the symmetrical design, connecting USB Type-C is much easier than classic Micro USB. In order to put a phone with USB Type-C on charge, you just need to plug the cable into it, and you don’t need to look at the connector and choose which side to connect it to. In addition, due to their symmetry, USB Type-C connectors are more stable and rarely damaged.
• USB Type-C is fast. As we have already said, USB Type-C supports data transfer rates from 5 to 10 Gb / s. If the phone supports this speed, then you can copy data much faster than using Micro USB, which is limited by the USB 2.0 standard (up to 480 Mbps).
• Micro USB (or rather Micro USB Type-B) is a time-tested connector, the main advantage of which is its prevalence. Charging and a cable with such a connector can be found in any office or home. Therefore, with Micro USB, you will always find where to charge your phone or smartphone.

Which is better USB Type-C or Micro USB

We conclude the article with an answer to the question of which is better, USB Type-C or Micro USB. In short, USB Type-C is definitely better. A phone with USB Type-C can only be bought for the sake of a symmetrical connector. Most users charge their phone daily, so such a trifle as a symmetrical connector that can be connected to either side makes life much easier. On the other hand, if you often charge your smartphone outside the home, then the usual Micro USB may be preferable. So you will have less trouble finding the right cable or adapter.

Also note the data transfer rate. If your phone and computer support USB 3.1, then via USB Type-C can transfer data at speeds up to 10 Gbps, while Micro USB can provide a maximum of 0.5 Gbps.

USB Type-C is not a completely new concept for Android fans, but there are some who are still in the dark about this technology. In this article, we will find out what USB Type-C is and get some guidance on how to use it.

USB (Universal Serial Bus) is a cable standard that allows data and power to be transferred between electronic devices. It first appeared in 1998 and has since gone through several iterations, the latest being USB Type-C.

Each version of USB has data transfer speed and quantity limits electric current through her. The previous USB Type-A and Type-B connectors only have four pins, but USB Type-C has 24, more larger and faster transfer rates.

For example, Micro-USB 2.0, which is currently found on Android smartphones, supports 5V (volts) / 2A (amps) of power and a data transfer rate of 480Mbps. USB 3.1 Type-C, on the other hand, is 20V/5A power with transfer rates up to 10Gbps.

What are the advantages of USB Type-C

Type-C has several other useful features. The USB Type-C connector is reversible, which means it will work no matter the orientation you plug it in, and has an identical pin on both ends.

What's more, the next generation of HDMI is USB Type-C compatible, meaning there's no need for a separate dongle to send high-definition audio/visual data. In the future, laptops will no doubt fully return USB Type-C.

What are the disadvantages of USB Type-C

Not all manufacturers are adapting to the new USB standard. Some USB Type-C cables conform to the USB 2.0 standard, which is a dangerous practice and can damage your smartphone.

If you need to buy Type-C cable for your phone, you can purchase it from your device manufacturer at this time.

Another big problem is the number of devices that use it. Nektus 5X, good luck finding a cable. Another disadvantage is that quality cables and USB Type-C chargers are expensive.

Looking at almost any laptop, you'll find a range of different ports adorning their sides: USB, HDMI, power connection, and a few others. This may soon become a thing of the past as manufacturers such as Apple and HP are already poised to adopt a new universal standard that offers increased speed, improved functionality and convenience. The time of USB-C is coming, and its future looks very promising.

One cable, many applications

The idea behind USB Type-C is simple. You have one type of cable, one type of port, and through them you connect everything you need. This means that you can use the same connector for hard drives, monitors, audio interfaces, smartphones, tablets and even for charging a laptop.

Most peripherals now connect to a PC via a USB-A connector. It has a rectangular shape and is used on USB flash drives, external keyboards, mice, hard drives and almost all other devices.

On the opposite side of the cable, as a rule, there is another type of connector, for example, Micro USB, which is connected to smartphones, Mini USB for other gadgets, Micro USB-B for connecting to some storage devices, or square-shaped USB-B used in printers. The difficulty is that you need to have a separate cable for each device, and there is no guarantee that if you are somewhere else, you will be able to find the one you need.

USB-C simplifies this situation by establishing a single standard format for all devices, and even the same connector on both ends of the cable. The slim, oval-shaped connector is smaller than previous USB formats. Plus, it's also symmetrical/reversible similar to Apple's Lightning connector - so the times you've been fiddling with a cable to find The right way connections to your device will soon become a thing of the past.

Over time, USB-C will likely become the only universal port for all devices, replacing the USB-A, USB-B, Micro USB and Mini USB that make our lives so difficult now. All cables will be the same and will fit all devices. Admittedly, this will not happen so soon, since most peripherals on the market are still using the old connection types. But with the release of a new line Macbook Pro from Apple, equipped exclusively with USB-C ports, Asus Zenbook 3 and HP Specter using the same approach, USB-C port s are becoming a familiar option on many modern laptops and 2-in-1 devices. This, of course, indicates that the future belongs to the new platform.

What are the benefits of USB-C?

Of course, a simple change in the design of the connector and port is unlikely to be a strong incentive to upgrade all your peripherals, but this is not the only thing. USB advantage Type-C. The new format also supports the latest USB 3.1 protocol, which is faster and more versatile than previous versions used on devices with USB type A.

• Speed. When USB 1.0 was introduced back in 1996, it had a maximum data transfer rate of 12 Mbps. USB 2.0, which followed in 2000, "jumped" to 480 Mb / s. USB 3.0, which replaced it in 2008, provided a much improved 5Gb/s performance. Now, USB 3.1 has doubled that figure, offering as much as 10 Gb/s and a host of additional benefits.
• Performance. These additional benefits include the ability to deliver up to 100 watts of power to connected devices, enough to charge any smartphone, tablet, and almost any laptop. The new format can also carry a signal for 4K resolution monitors and an audio signal.
• compactness. Smaller size and versatility of the ports mean they will now become ubiquitous on ultra-thin laptops and Android smartphones like Google Pixel.
• Versatility. The versatile nature of the new standard opens up a range of useful practical applications with just one cable. For example, a user can connect their laptop equipped with USB-C to a display with external power supply and recharge while watching video content. If other USB devices are connected to the monitor, for example, external drive, PC can also access it and transfer files. In addition, the cable can be used to connect and charge a smartphone.
• Compatibility. USB Type-C is backward compatible with previous generations. If you have an adapter or hardware key, you will be able to use your USB devices via USB-C. To meet this need, a number of interesting accessories have already been released, such as the Targus Dock 410, offering not only three USB port 3.0 but also HDMI, gigabit ethernet and various video options. The fact that the device can control all of this functionality through a single USB-C port shows the platform's potential - it's not for nothing that more and more modern laptops, such as Apple's line of thin 12-inch MacBooks, are equipped with a single port. Now there is an even faster form of USB Type-C, which also includes support for Thunderbolt 3.0. With it, devices like the MacBook Pro, Dell XPS 13 and HP Specter can achieve speeds up to 40 Gb/s - four times faster than USB 3.1. With increased data transfer rates, users can connect USB-C cable to the aforementioned Targus Dock 410 and launch two external displays with resolutions up to 3840x2160 by connecting them to the DVI-D and HDMI ports on the docking station. Since the standard is still new, manufacturers' specifications may vary by different devices– so the consumer needs to make sure that accessories like the Dock 410 are compatible with their laptops.
• Reversibility. Who hasn't swore at all trying to get a Micro USB connector or even a standard USB connector into a device correctly? Apple's Lightning connector does away with that inconvenience, and now USB-C is just as convenient.

What are the disadvantages of USB Type-C?

Even though USB-C is brilliant new format, which will no doubt become ubiquitous in the near future, is currently still in its infancy and is therefore not without some confusion and danger.

Since USB-C refers more to a connector type than to internal specifications, users may be disappointed that their device does not perform as fast as they expected. The first generation of USB-C uses USB 3.0 technology, which has a maximum speed of 5 Gb/s, while the second generation of USB-C supports USB 3.1, which provides 10 Gb/s. There is also a third generation that includes Thunderbolt 3 (for example, on new MacBooks Pro), with a maximum speed of up to 40 Gb/s. The problem with each of the ports is that they look the same, but manufacturers use different components in their model lines. Therefore, to avoid disappointment, potential buyers should check the specifications and speed of the connector before purchasing.

Cables can also be confusing as they all look the same but have different designs that affect their capabilities. If you need a charging cable you need to make sure it supports USB Power Delivery, and for HDMI, MHL or DisplayPort you need a USB-C cable with Alternate Mode function. These inconveniences will no doubt be eliminated in the future, but at this stage, the buyer should carefully check all the details.

The main problem facing USB-C is cheap cables and accessories that can cause physical damage to the device. The problem is caused by the amount of energy they are capable of transmitting. This can be dangerous not only for devices, but also for people. Therefore, you should not buy cheap, non-branded products from China, but choose reliable, proven brands.

A new type of USB Type-C plug appeared along with the new USB 3.1 standard. At the same time, the USB Promoter Group created a terrible chaos: when new standard USB with a bandwidth of 10 Gb / s was introduced to the market, it was dubbed USB 3.1 Gen 2, and earlier versions - USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 (5 Gb / s) became USB 3.1 Gen 1. But cables with a USB-C plug can support any of these versions, and even lower bandwidth USB 2.0. In addition, they may differ in power supply.

Comparative testing of cables from 50 rubles

We bought USB-C to USB-A cables (to connect smartphone to PC or charger) that were most often mentioned in Amazon search and studied them in the CHIP testing center. The table shows the product index by which it can be found in the Amazon online store. The same models can be found on the popular Aliexpress resource. The cheapest cable we found cost 50 rubles plus 150 rubles for shipping from a Chinese supplier.

Impression of all ordered cables: reliable. cheap cable from Harrystore - the thinnest and most flexible, the two most expensive from Anker, on the contrary, are thick and bend with difficulty. But Anker's PowerLine II, in the Huawei P10 fast charging test, delivered more charging current than the other testers - up to a 23% improvement in charging time compared to a cheap one, according to calculations. Chinese cable.

We measured the data transfer rate on an external solid state drive Sandisk Extreme 900. Nearly all cables delivered nearly identical high results almost to the limits of the drive's capabilities. In addition to the cheapest, which, despite the declared USB speed 3.1 Gen 2, slowed down the drive almost to the level of USB 2.0. This fact limits its suitability for affordable smartphones that use USB 2.0 on the USB Type-C connector, or charging in the car.

The result of our testing: cable from about 396 rubles - a good choice; plus, buying the same Anker, you will get a longer warranty (18 months) and the promise of a hassle-free replacement and service at the customer support center. We do not recommend the adventurous Chinese inexpensive cable: we were lucky that nothing broke, but we got a seriously limited data transfer rate.

Computers are mainly equipped with Type-A connectors, smartphones - Type Micro-B, printers and hard drives- Type B. The new double-sided Type-C connector should gradually replace all the others.