Dev.SN ♥ developers
Sections
Dev.SN
Intel has released a rendering of the new USB Type C connector, which is reversible so no more jokes about "USB cables exist in the fourth dimension". The new connector is smaller than the Type A connector that we're all used to seeing on our desktops and laptops and looks to be slightly larger than the micro-B connector found on most smart phones and tablets.
From the article:
Unlike today's USB connectors, which requires a user to correctly orient the plug, USB 3.1 Type-C cable is reversible. Initially, the USB 3.1 Type-C specification will support up to 10Gbps data transfer speeds.
The Type-C connector and cable will support scalable power charging in order to grow with future USB bus performance requirements. The first iteration will have a 5 volt power transfer rate, but that is expected to deliver up to 100 watts for higher power applications.
(Score: 2) by etherscythe on Thursday April 03 2014, @12:15PM
I'm seeing an attempt to reduce cable clutter, and maybe enabling devices such as a RAID cages with only one or two connections back to the tower (as opposed to a mess of power adapters on the outlet strip). We won't really know what interesting applications come out until the connector becomes widespread, but having options for device manufacturers can only be a good thing.