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USB stands for universal serial bus and is a main connector to devices for a variety of uses.
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USB-A, B, & C
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USB has had several different form specifications for its connectors. Originally, there were just two USB types, USB-A and USB-B. Now, USB-C is joining the game and now changing everything.
USB-A USB-A is the most commonly known USB type. The odds are you have plenty of USB-A connectors at home and you’re quite familiar with the way the look. It’s the cable with that one wider end. Only one, as the connector is not rotationally symmetrical and both ends are different, corresponding to a different type of port.
USB-B Just like USB-A, it’s the original designation for the two ends of a non-symmetrical cable. The differing form of USB-A and USB-B helps to enforce the mono-directional aspect of these iterations of USB. Data flow is bi-directional, but power may only flow from the host to the peripheral or receptor end and, therefore, the cable can only be connected in one way.
Furthermore, there are mini and micro versions of both USB-A and USB-B, which causes confusion because users need various different cables for basic use cases and may find it difficult to plug devices in for the first time. Or the second.
USB-C USB-C simplifies all things considered (we’ll explain that even more in depth later on). For starters, it’s fully reversible, so no matter what side you grab to plug, it’s all the same. Then, its bi-directional power capabilities allow for the power flow in both directions, having devices charge each other and power larger displays. Also, USB-C has better data rates which can drive high-resolution monitors. This point is a boon for all digital artists needing pristine sound and image production. Or anyone who seeks a plug-and-play connection for that matter. Besides, productivity and remaining in the workflow are also heavily dependent on having enough screen space, and USB-C provides just that. Work aside, USB-C monitors bring forth a high-quality home cinema experience.
The improvements are many, and we’re living in exciting times to see how USB-C can simplify our lives and work. Make sure you’re ready to make the most of it!
Tips
- Connect iPhone via USB to your signed-in macbook laptop in order to obtain internet connection via hotspot through your phone. Your USB connected to phone acts as a type of ethernet cable to the device in this way.