USB Type-C, commonly known as USB-C, is a 24-pin reversible connector designed to replace previous USB connectors like Type-A and Type-B. It supports the transmission of data, audio, video, and power over a single cable, making it highly versatile for connecting devices such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, monitors, external drives, and hubs/docking stations
. Key features of USB-C include:
- Reversible design: The connector can be plugged in either way, unlike older USB types which had a fixed orientation
- High data transfer rates: USB-C supports various USB protocols including USB 3.2 and USB4, enabling data speeds up to 20 Gbit/s or higher depending on the implementation
- Power delivery: It can both provide and receive power, allowing devices like laptops and phones to charge through the same port used for data
- Multi-protocol support: Beyond USB, USB-C can carry other protocols such as Thunderbolt, HDMI, DisplayPort, and PCIe, making it a universal connector for many technologies
- Broad adoption: USB-C is widely adopted across many device types and manufacturers, including major companies like Apple, Dell, HP, Intel, and Microsoft. It is becoming the standard charging and data port globally, with regulatory bodies like the European Union mandating its use for new devices
In summary, USB-C is a universal, reversible connector standard that consolidates data transfer, video output, and power delivery into a single port, designed to simplify and unify device connectivity
