Questions You Should Know about USB 2.0 Connector

The term USB is short for Universal Serial Bus. As a quick refresher, a “bus” is a circuit arrangement or communication system that is used to transfer data between components in a system. A “serial” bus, in this case, transmits data one bit at a time over a single wire.

Link to AIKE Electronics

A USB connector, however, can not only carry data to and from components, but also electrical power, and can accommodate many different hardware devices, ranging from printers and keyboards to cell phones and flash drives.

Prior to the development of the USB protocol, computers used both serial and parallel ports to accomplish data transfer, with individual devices employing various proprietary plugs, connectors, cables, expansion cards, and the necessary drivers. Data transfer rates were slow, with parallel ports running at about 100 kilobytes (kB) per second and serial at 115 to 450 kilobits (kb) per second.

Debuting early in , after much work by a consortium of companies, the USB 1.0 specification could initially transfer data at 1.5 megabits (Mbit) per second at low speed and 12 Mbit per second at full speed. Transfer speed was further increased with the release of USB 2.0 in the year at 480 Mbit per second, and USB 3.0 in at 4.8 gigabits per second (Gbps). USB 3.2 has taken over the 3.1 and 3.0 standards and covers speeds up to 20 Gbps and is currently the most commonly available. The latest version is USB4, released in with transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps and is slowly being introduced into common usage.

The USB standard has been guided and certified over the years by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), which has more than 700 companies as members. The work of the USB-IF has led to a series of releases of the standard over the years with faster and faster specs. This increased speed and video resolution via a small and inexpensive interface has made USB connectors the dominant signal transfer technology in use around the world today. Shop Same Sky's full range of USB connectors and USB cable assemblies.

USB Physical Form Factors

There are several types or physical form factors of USB connectors that are available for use in a variety of applications. These include:

• Type A – This is the original, most common USB connector, also called USB Standard A. It is used to connect downstream peripherals to a host device. The flat, rectangular shape is held in place by friction making for ease of insertion and removal. It provides 5 V dc power on one of the pins and is compatible with all types of USB protocols.
• Type B – The Type B connector is most often associated with USB computer peripheral devices. This connector is square in shape, with slightly beveled corners on the top. Like Type A, it is held in place by friction. It was developed to allow peripherals to be connected without the risk of connecting two host computers to each other. This connector type is still in use, but the micro version is more prevalent.
• Type C – This is the newest USB interface, with a reversible symmetrical design that can be inserted with either side up and can be plugged into any USB-C device using either end of the cable. It can carry USB 3.2 (previously 3.1 and 3.0), 2.0, and 1.1 signals and can transmit data at up to 20 Gbps with power delivery up to 100 W in either direction (expanded to 240 W with USB PD 3.1) and can support DisplayPort video and four channel audio. Type C also supports USB4 as well as Thunderbolt, a hardware interface allowing the connection of peripherals to a computer with data transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps.
• Micro & Mini A&B – As the name implies, these are smaller form versions of Types A & B connectors that offer a physically smaller connection while maintaining high speed transfer rates of 480 Mbps and On-The-Go (OTG) features, allowing mobile devices and other peripherals to act as a USB host.
• Type AB – This connector allows both micro A and micro B plugs to connect to this single receptacle type, providing greater flexibility.

The individual types of USB connectors can only mate with their associated male or female connectors. There is no cross compatibility. But while the connectors themselves are standard, the enclosures in which they are used can be changed significantly for different applications. This has led to the development of IP rated (Ingress Protection) USB connectors that enable robust protection against solid or liquid intrusion into devices used in harsh environments.

Most USB cable assemblies also have one type of connector on one end and a different type on the other end, Type A to Type B or Type C is very common. As Type C is designed specifically to be interchangeable, it is more common for Type C to be on both ends of a cable and will grow in usage as Type C ports are more widely adopted. USB 3.0 micro B plugs, which have a wider connection to accommodate the greater data transfer rate, cannot be used with a USB 2.0 micro B socket. However, devices with USB 3.0 micro B ports can be mated with older USB 2.0 micro B type male plugs.

USB Communication Standard Versions

As has been noted, the USB communication standard defines the data transmission speed, handshake protocols, and power supply specs between the devices being used. There have been significant improvements of the standard over the years, with data transfer speeds ranging from USB 1.0 at 1.5 Mbit per second to USB 3.2 with speeds up to 20 Gbps, and now USB4 with speeds up to 40 Gbps. Each succeeding version facilitates a new round of interconnect hardware.

USB communication standards are notoriously confusing with frequent retroactive naming changes, but currently USB 3.2 is the most readily available USB standard that is compatible with both Type A and Type C connectors, though it can vary from 5 Gbps up to 20 Gbps. The 20 Gbps standard can also be known as “SuperSpeed USB 20 Gbps” or “USB 3.2 Gen 2x2”, where the 10 Gbps standard can also be known as “SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps” or “USB 3.2 Gen 2.” Finally, the 5 Gbps standard is currently known as “SuperSpeed USB 5 Gbps” or “USB 3.2 Gen 1.” However, the usage of older naming conventions can be found throughout the internet, and it may be easiest to manually check the speed ratings for the device or connector and use that as the baseline. Check out our blog post, The History of USB Standards from 1.0 to USB4, for more information.

However, as is the case with many installations, different versions often come into use in the same system. If devices using a newer USB version and an older version are communicating, they will default to the older version and speed. This is a function of the software, but compatibility with the standard is also hardware related.

All Type C connectors are compatible with USB 3.2, though some Type C connectors still conform to earlier standards. Type A and B is dependent on the cable, with different connector colors typically denoting different versions for quick reference. Confusion can often arise when looking at the relationship between the physical connector standard and communication standards. Our blog post, USB Type C and USB 3.2 – Clarifying the Connection, discusses this in more detail.

With the original standard, a host was required. A Type A connector usually indicated the host device, and a Type B usually was connected to the peripheral. With USB OTG (On The GO), this is not necessary. USB OTG is a specification that allows a USB device (such as a smartphone) to act as a host, allowing other USB devices to be connected. Basically, it allows a USB device to read data from other devices without requiring a computer.

USB Power Delivery Standards

The USB standard began as a data interface protocol to simplify interconnectivity between devices, and it supplied some power. It has since matured from a data interface supplying limited power to a significant power conduit that includes a data interface. Numerous devices are now able to charge or receive power through the connection.

A concerted effort has been made to standardize the transmission of power and increase the feature set in the form of the USB Power Delivery (USB PD) standard. Using Type C, USB PD can provide variable voltage up to 20 V and a maximum current up to 5 A, with an overall limit of up to 100 W of power transfer. The USB PD 3.1 standard, released in , has since expanded that power transfer capability up to 240 W. Additionally, the direction of the power is no longer fixed, with either the host or the peripheral supplying the power. Power management can also be optimized across multiple peripherals.

USB PD requires a digital device handshake to achieve these higher ratings. If the requisite chips are not available and the handshake does not occur, the system will revert to the 5 V/1 A standard. This is independent of the USB version and type but does require the type to support the USB PD standards. For example, a Type A to Type C cable that supports versions 2.0 and newer can use PD.

PD can also work with devices that do not transfer data, utilizing USB purely for power. It does require separate communication lines for power negotiation and therefore is slightly more complicated to design and manufacture than many non-USB formats. This complication can be outweighed by the fact that PD creates a charging standard across a large array of devices, simplifying and consolidating chargers. This can reduce e-waste and the inconvenience of needing multiple cables for different devices. To learn more, read our Introduction to Power-Only USB Type C connectors blog post.

USB Applications Continue to Expand

By offering a small form factor, ease of design and use, high communication speeds, plus increased power transfer, USB connectors can be used in a very wide and growing list of applications. A short list of these uses includes:

• Desktop and laptop computers
• Disk drives
• Printers
• Scanners
• Joysticks and controllers
• Video cameras
• Mobile phones, Smart TVs
• Gaming consoles

Since data transfer is not a requirement, USB connectors can also be used solely to power devices such as rechargeable flashlights, charging pads, and many other portable consumer devices.

The robustness and speed of the newest USB standard is also opening even further applications. It now has the bandwidth, reliability, and power delivery capability to be used in industrial applications such as data acquisition and monitoring, machine vision, and process control. Basically, any application that uses 240 W of power or less can be a candidate for USB power.

Summary

In most modern technology devices, there will be some form of USB connection available to connect equipment. Despite supposedly being universal, there are different variations of USB types and versions; including what connectors and cables each can use.

In this guide, we will explore the different types of USB connectors, ports and cables, and answer the most frequently asked questions on how each works.

Click on the relevant link to jump to that section:

• What should you know about USB types?

• What are the different types of USB connectors?

• What are the different types of USB cables?

• What are the different types of USB ports?

• How CMD can help

• Frequently asked questions

What should you know about USB types?

USB, which stands for Universal Serial Bus, refers to the system that transfers data between computers or between components within a computer, such as a keyboard or a mouse. Consisting of a type of cable and connector, many electronic devices will have a USB connection available, including in vehicles and modern workstation power systems.

In the table below, we have defined the most common USB terms to be aware of:

Find out more about USB compatibility and the differences between USB versions here.

What are the different types of USB connectors?

Often referred to as “male”, as they plug into a “female” port, it is important to understand that there are two elements of USB standard to consider; the physical connector shape and the underlying protocol (speed).

USB Type A

Compatible with: USB 1.1 Type A, USB 2.0 Type A and USB 3.0.

USB 2.0 Type A

The most common type of USB connector is Type A, which is rectangular. USB Type A connectors have backward capability; extending the number of ports that can be connected. Officially this type of USB connector is called Standard-A and their plugs are found at the end of cables that are hard-wired into a USB device.

USB 3.0 Type A

Although there are 2.0 and 3.0 USB Type A connectors, all Type A plugs from any USB version will fit into the receptacle. However, there are certain differences between the 2.0 and 3.0 versions; for example, USB 3.0 has an additional nine pins to enable a faster data transfer rate.

At CMD Ltd, we design and manufacture workstation power modules to help provide easy power access for businesses, including USB Type A ports.

If you are interested in providing your business with reliable workstation power, CMD at to receive a workstation power quote.

USB Type B

Compatible with: USB 1,1 Type B, USB 2.0 Type B, USB 3.0 Type B

Compared to Type A, the USB Type B connectors are square with a slight rounding or large square protrusion on the top. op. Certain Type B plugs are not physically compatible. USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 Type B plugs can be used with 3.0 version receptacles; however, USB 3.0 Type B plugs cannot be used with 2.0 or 1.1 Type B receptacles.

USB 2.0 Type B

The main difference between versions is the shape, as the rounding has been altered due to the increase of the number of pins; allowing a faster data transfer.

USB 3.0 Type B

There is also the USB Type B Mini, primarily found on digital cameras, USB hubs, and external hard drives, and the USB Type B Micro which is used by modern Android phones.

The company is the world’s best USB 2.0 Connector supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

USB Type C

Compatible with: USB 3.0

Although USB Type A is still the most used connector, the USB Type C are becoming increasingly more popular. Type C connectors differ in appearance compared to the previous USB types, as they are asymmetrical and have a small and thin appearance. One major difference is that the USB C is reversible; meaning it does not matter which way the connector is facing.

USB 3.0 Type C

In a standard USB C cable, there are Type C connectors on both sides, and have been adopted by various smartphone companies. This is primarily due to the fast data transfer rate, as the cable has 24 pins, and is ideal for connecting monitors, charging high-powered devices, and transferring data in a business environment.

USB C is not as common as USB Type A and B, despite the additional benefits.

Interested in workstation power?

Our recommended USB charging device:

Shop the Capsule Plus here.

The Capsule Plus provides high-speed USB charging for laptops and other devices; making it ideal for office and homeworking. There is a Type A and Type C twin USB port to ensure a variety of devices can be connected.

CMD Capsule Animation

If you are interested in charging USB devices in your business, shop the entire workstation power range at CMD here.

What are the different types of USB cables?

USB cables are named in one of two ways:

1. AS A SINGLE TYPE

A USB Type C cable.

With these cables, the type is whichever end of the cable isn’t the standard USB Type-A connector. So, for example, a cable with both a USB Type-A and a Type-C connector is a USB Type-C cable.

If both connectors are USB Type-A, it would be a USB Type-A cable (or a USB male-to-male of cable or, simply, a USB cable).

2. AS ONE TYPE TO ANOTHER

A USB Type-A to USB Type-C cable.

If the cable has a Type-A connector at one end (as in the above image), that will usually be the first type. The second will be the shape of connector that will plug into your device.

Some cables have the same connector at both ends and are named accordingly—for example, a USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable.

Interested in USB charging for the office?

Our recommended product:

Shop the Inca Power here.

Inca has been designed with communal working areas and meeting rooms in mind. Available in three colours, the modules are supplied with cables, and have twin USB ports to simultaneously charge laptops, tablets and mobile phones.

If you are interested in USB chargers for your office but are unsure of your choices, read our guide on how to choose a USB charger here.

What are the different types of USB ports?

The USB port (also called a socket, jack or receptacle) is the part of the device that the USB connector plugs into. USB ports are sometimes referred to as “female”, as they accept a “male” connector.

The different types of USB ports, for both the 2.0 and 3.0 versions, are listed in the table below:

Ensure your office environment has sufficient opportunities for charging USB devices by considering the number and types of ports in the charging station.

Our recommended USB charging hub:

Shop the Harmony Power and Data Module here.

This charging station contains 2 5A ports and provides high power for busy office environments. The Harmony device is designed to be on the desk and has multiple charging outlets for both USB Type A and USB Type C devices.

Find out more about what to consider when buying a USB charging station here.

How CMD can help

CMD are a British manufacturing company that provides high-power systems to enhance office and homeworking environments. We provide vast product ranges, including power distribution systems and workstation power charging hubs.

No matter the USB type, our workstation power devices can charge a variety of devices, including the relatively new USB Type C.

Contact CMD today to find out more about our workstation power devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS USB TYPE B USED FOR?

You’ll typically find USB Type B ports on larger devices you connect to your computer, such as printers and scanners. You might also have external storage devices or drives that use them.

Most USB Type B connectors are at one end of a USB Type B to USB Type A cable. You plug the Type-B connector into the printer, scanner or other device and the Type A connector into the standard USB port on your computer.

DOES MY LAPTOP HAVE USB TYPE C?

Most modern technology devices have started including USB Type C outlets, including Apple MacBooks and Chromebooks.

It is important to remember that your laptop may not be able to charge the device, despite having a USB Type C port. MacBooks can, however, other computers might only charge with their own charger.

The manual that came with your computer should tell you whether this is possible, or you can check the manufacturer’s website.

Find out more about the most frequently asked questions on USB chargers here.

Related content

A guide to USB versions and compatibility

Want more information on I/O Connectors? Feel free to contact us.