The new type-C connector with USB version 3.1 is making more and more of a name for itself. This guide tells you what distinguishes the new standard and connector type.
USB is a proven data transmission system which now comes in version 3.1. Because it also provides the new type-C connector, it will take some time until devices come with it as a factory standard. The new version is especially fast and practical, therefore it could make sense to make the change now, or to upgrade devices.
USB 3.1 is twice as fast
USB version 3.1 was introduced in 2013. It offers some significant improvements:
- Transmission speed is 10 Gbit/s gross. This is almost double compared to USB 3.0.
- USB 3.1 means device batteries can be charged via USB significantly faster. The Power Delivery charging function enables power consumption of up to 5 A and 20 V (100 W).
- USB 3.1 works with a passive cable without integrated electronics.
- The type-C connector can be plugged in at both ends. It is smaller and has the clear advantage of being symmetrically designed compared to previous USB connectors: The top and bottom are the same and therefore it makes no difference which way round you plug the connector in.
- Type-C connectors are more robust: They are equipped for up to 10,000 plug cycles. To compare: In the case of type-A connectors, lifespan is a maximum of 5000 plug cycles.
- According to the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA), the new USB 3.1 port supports the DisplayPort standard. This means 4K/ultra-HD screens (resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels) with a display refresh rate of 60 Hz could be connected.
- Current MacBook and Chromebook laptop models can be connected directly to another display via their USB-C ports and an adapter. The DP Alt mode function transfers to the screen without any additional settings.
Is USB 3.1 compatible with older versions?
USB was originally only used with computer equipment. Nowadays, ports can be found on music systems, TVs, cameras and in cars. But you do not need to get rid of devices with older USB ports and cables just because there is a newer version.
USB 3.1 is backward-compatible. Adapters can be used to connect older ports to new ones.
However, this means higher speeds of transmission will not be reached.
USB 3.1 upgrade
A PCI Express card can be used to upgrade your PC with USB 3.1 without having to spend a lot of money. Your computer just has to have an available slot for this type of card with USB 3.1. Disconnect the computer from the power supply and open the computer housing. Insert the PCI Express card into the available slot.
Connect a spare power connector to the card and re-close the housing. Current operating systems such as Windows 10 automatically detect the new connection.
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