USB C Pinout Names And Functions You Need To Know.

Q: What is Common USB-C Manufacturing Terminology?

Here are some common USB-C manufacturing terminology; Surface Mount Technology (SMT): This is the process of attaching electronic components to the surface of a printed circuit board (PCB). USB-C connectors are often mounted onto PCBs using SMT. Reflow Soldering: Reflow soldering involves melting solder to attach components to a PCB. This is a common method used in USB-C manufacturing to ensure secure connections. Wave Soldering: Wave soldering is an alternative soldering method where a wave of molten solder is used to solder through-hole components, which may be used in some USB-C connectors. Quality Control (QC): USB-C manufacturing involves rigorous quality control processes to ensure that connectors meet industry standards and specifications. Alternate Modes: USB-C supports various alternate modes, such as DisplayPort and Thunderbolt. Manufacturing may involve configuring USB-C connectors to enable these modes. Thermal Management: Managing heat is essential in USB-C manufacturing, especially when dealing with high-power applications, such as laptops and smartphones. Proper heat dissipation mechanisms may be incorporated into the design. RoHS Compliance: USB-C manufacturing often adheres to the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive, ensuring that connectors are free from certain hazardous materials.

Have you ever marveled at the sleek, reversible design of a USB Type-C connector? This article embarks on an exploration of the usb type c pinout, unraveling its intricate details and multifaceted capabilities.
USB Type-C, a revolutionary specification for connector systems, has surged in popularity, becoming a staple in the world of smartphones and mobile devices. Beyond its impeccable design, it’s a powerhouse that seamlessly integrates power delivery protocol and high-speed data transmission.

Bid farewell to the days of frustrating plugging attempts, for the USB Type-C connector is delightfully flippable. No more wrestling with orientation; it effortlessly slides into place. But there’s more to USB Type-C than its convenience – let’s dive deeper into its inner workings.

USB C Connector Overview.

USB-C, also known as USB Type-C, is not just a connector but a technological marvel that has replaced its predecessors. It’s a versatile gateway that carries audio and video data, facilitates data transfers, and delivers power, all while being adopted by various protocols like Thunderbolt, PCIe, HDMI, DisplayPort, and more. This 24-pin connector brings a level of flexibility that’s unparalleled. Its adaptability ensures compatibility with evolving USB standards. Currently unparalleled, USB-C is the go-to interface, poised to retain its significance as the universal connector for diverse devices. It serves as a universal interface, ensuring connectivity and data transfer efficiency, making it the go-to choice for modern technology.

One of the most remarkable features of USB-C is its reversibility. Unlike older USB connectors that had specific host and peripheral ends, USB-C can connect in any direction. It’s like a universal key that fits any lock, making it incredibly convenient for users. The “C” in USB-C stands for its form factor, distinguishing it from the previous Type-A and Type-B connectors. Don’t let the name fool you; USB-C’s capabilities go far beyond its label.
Thanks to the multitude of supported protocols by both host and peripheral devices, a USB-C connection offers significantly higher data rates compared to its predecessors. It’s a true powerhouse, capable of handling Thunderbolt 3, DisplayPort 2.0, or USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, depending on the connected devices’ capabilities.
What sets USB-C apart from its forerunners is its rotational symmetry. No more fumbling to insert the plug in the right direction; it goes in either way with ease.

What is a USB C Pinout?

The USB Type-C connector has 24 pins. From the USB C pinout diagram at the top, you can see USB connectors configured for USB 2.0 mode, utilizing pins like D+, D-, VBUS, and GND. It’s worth noting that USB 3.0 involves fully functional cable connections with 8 to 10 connecting wires or buses.It features a 24-pin double-sided connector with specific measurements: 8.4mm in width, 2.6mm in height, and a depth of 6.65mm.

These dimensions are important to note for both the internal side of a receptacle and the outer side of a plug, ensuring a secure and functional connection. The USB-C connectors come in two primary forms: male plugs and female receptacles. Male plugs are commonly found on cables and adapters, serving as the connecting end for various devices. In contrast, female receptacles are typically integrated into devices and adapters, offering a socket where the male plug is inserted to establish connections.

Development History:

The roughly the usb type c specification 1.0, published by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) in August 2014, paved the way for this incredible technology. It was introduced alongside the USB 3.1 specification and later adopted by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) as “IEC 62680-1-3” in July 2016.
It’s worth noting that not every device with a Type-C connector implements USB transfer protocols, USB Power Delivery, or Alternate Modes. While the Type-C connector is common to multiple technologies, not all are mandatory.

In 2017, USB 3.2 took over from the USB 3.1 specification. It retained the SuperSpeed and SuperSpeed+ data transfer modes while introducing two additional modes with signaling rates of 10 Gbit/s and 20 Gbit/s. These modes require Full-Featured USB-C connectors and usb type c cable on both ends to unlock their full potential.

Finally, in 2019, USB4 emerged as the first USB transfer protocol exclusively available via USB-C. With USB4, the future of connectivity is even more promising.

USB C Connector Applications:

In the realm of power applications, the USB Type-C connector emerges as a game-changer, boasting a total of 24 pins, including 16 for data transfer, 4 for power, and 4 for grounding. With the capacity to deliver up to 240 W of power, USB Type-C has become a compelling choice for numerous power-hungry applications. What sets it apart is not just its power capabilities but its versatility, making it a viable replacement for traditional DC power connectors, even in scenarios where data transfer isn’t a requirement. Here are some common applications of type C connector:

Laptops and Notebooks;
Personal Computers;
Tablets and Portable Music Players;
Printers and Scanners;
Digital Cameras;
LCD and LED Monitors;
Set-Top Boxes;
Mobile Handsets;
Factory Automation;
Medical Devices;
Data Centers;
Power Packs and Chargers;
Lighting Systems;
Industrial Machinery;

From an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) perspective, USB Type-C connectors, whether for power-only or data-and-power applications, offer ready availability with a highly stable supply chain. Standardization ensures a certain level of interoperability, simplifying design integration. Moreover, USB Type-C boasts a compact footprint, outperforming many traditional barrel connectors in this regard. As a final testament to its excellence, these connectors are built to last, with a robust rating of 10,000 mating cycles, ensuring a long and productive lifespan.

USB C Connector Features:

The USB-C connector is characterized by several key features that set it apart in the world of connectivity:

Reversible Connector:The USB-C connector boasts a unique reversible design, allowing users to insert it into the type c receptacle data transfer in either orientation. This eliminates the frustration of trying to plug it in the right way and enhances user convenience.
Multi-Protocol Support:USB-C is a versatile interface that can accommodate a range of USB standards, including USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1 Gen 2 and USB 4. What’s more, it goes beyond USB standards and supports third-party protocols like DisplayPort and HDMI through a feature known as Alternate Mode. This versatility enables USB-C to handle various data transfer and display needs seamlessly.
High Data Transfer Speed:USB Type-C offers remarkable data transfer rates of up to 5~40 Gb/s, ensuring swift file transfers and efficient data access.
Robust Current Handling:With the capacity to handle currents of up to 5 Amps, USB-C supports power-hungry devices while maintaining performance.
Compact Design:Its small form factor, akin to USB 2.0 micro-B connectors, optimizes space utilization in devices while maintaining functionality.
4K Video Output:USB-C can replace traditional video ports like VGA and HDMI. Especially after incorporating Thunderbolt technology, it provides stunning ultra-high-definition (4K) video quality, bringing an immersive gaming and cinema experience.
High-Quality Audio:It can also replace traditional audio outputs, like the 3.5mm headphone jack, ensuring high-quality audio and music reproduction on smartphones and tablets.
Fast Internet Connectivity:USB-C’s versatility extends to replacing Ethernet ports, providing high-speed internet connectivity with speeds of up to 1000 Mb/s.
Power Negotiation:One of the standout features of USB-C is its ability to adjust power flow with support for PD and QC fast charging protocols. Devices connected via QC USB-C can communicate and determine the most appropriate power level required. This is especially valuable for charging, as it ensures the device receives the right amount of power, preventing overcharging and maximizing efficiency.

In addition to these core features, USB-C connectors are known for their robustness, with a high mating cycle rating, and their compatibility with a wide range of devices. These features collectively make USB-C a leading choice for modern connectivity solutions across various applications.

Differences Between USB C Male and Female USB C pinout.

Male and female connectors exist for various types of Universal Serial Bus jacks, including the Micro USB-B male connector and USB-A female connector. This gender differentiation is necessary because you always need two components with opposite genders to create a connection, regardless of the specific USB type.
Additionally, adapters and converters with various gender configurations are available for different generations and types of USB connectors, such as male-to-male, female-to-female, male-to-female, and female-to-male USB ports.

A female USB connector, often referred to as a port, slot, receptacle, or socket, is commonly found on host devices and hubs. It allows external USB devices and peripherals to be plugged in.
On the other hand, the male USB connector, commonly known as a plug, is typically located at the end of a cable or can be physically attached to smaller accessories like USB memory sticks. This plug inserts into the female port, which is typically found in the casing of larger devices.

The symmetrical arrangement of pin positions around the center point is evident. When the male connector is plugged into the female connector, the pin functions align perfectly regardless of the insertion direction. Furthermore, both VBUS and GND power supply lines consist of 4 pins, enabling simultaneous power delivery from all 4 pins. This key feature sets USB-C apart from previous connectors and facilitates its capability to support high currents of up to 5A.

Click for detailed USB C cable wiring diagram.

USB C Pinout Table
Description	Signal A	Pin	Pin	Signal B	Description
Ground	GND	A1	B12	GND	Ground
SuperSpeed differential pair 1 TX, positive	TX1+	A2	B11	TX1+	SuperSpeed differential pair 1 RX, positive
SuperSpeed differential pair 1 TX, negative	TX1-	A3	B10	TX1-	SuperSpeed differential pair 1 TX, negative
Bus Power	VBUS	A4	B9	VBUS	Bus Power
Configuration channel	CC1	A5	B8	SBU2	Sideband use
USB 2.0 differential pair, position 1, positive	D1+	A6	B7	D2-	USB 2.0 differential pair, position 2, negative
USB 2.0 differential pair, position 1, negative	D1-	A7	B6	D2+	USB 2.0 differential pair, position 2, positive
Sideband use	SBU1	A8	B5	CC2	Configuration channel
Bus Power	VBUS	A9	B4	VBUS	Bus Power
SuperSpeed differential pair 2 RX, negative	RX2-	A10	B3	TX2-	SuperSpeed differential pair 2 TX, negative
SuperSpeed differential pair 2 RX, positive	RX2+	A11	B2	TX2+	SuperSpeed differential pair 2 TX, positive
Ground	GND	A12	B1	GND	Ground

USB Type C Connector Pin Function Definition.

The USB Type-C connector has 24 pins and the image below shows the pins of the USB Type-C receptacle and plug.

USB 2.0 Differential Pairs

For USB 2.0 connectivity, the D+ and D- pins consist of two pairs each within the receptacle. However, these pairs are interconnected, offering just one usable USB 2.0 data differential pair. This redundancy enables the reversible nature of the connector.

Power and Ground Pins

The VBUS and GND pins serve as the power supply and return paths for signals. The default VBUS voltage is 5 V, but devices can negotiate and opt for an alternative VBUS voltage as per the standard, supporting up to 20 V. The maximum current can also be raised to 5 A, allowing the USB Type-C to deliver a maximum of 100~240W of power.It uses a buck-boost converter to provide the required voltage.

Notably, the power delivery technology enhances the versatility of USB Type-C, accommodating varying power requirements for devices. This means you can use the same cable to charge both your smartphone and notebook.

RX and TX Pins

Two sets of RX and TX differential pairs are available. One of the RX pairs, along with a TX pair, can be employed for USB 3.0/3.1 protocol. Since the connector is reversible, a multiplexer is necessary to correctly route data via the cable.

It’s important to mention that a usb type c port can support USB 3.0/3.1 standards, but the basic USB Type-C feature set does not inherently include USB 3.0/3.1. In such cases, the RX/TX pairs can be utilized for other USB Type-C functionalities like Alternate Mode and USB Power Delivery, possibly using all available RX/TX differential pairs.

CC1 and CC2 Pins

CC1 and CC2 pins, also known as Channel Configuration pins, serve various functions, including cable attachment and removal detection, receptacle/plug orientation detection, and current advertisement. These pins can also facilitate the communication required for Power Delivery and Alternate Mode.

USB C CC1 and CC2 Pins

Image above illustrates how CC1 and CC2 pins reveal the receptacle/plug orientation, with DFP (Downstream Facing Port) and UFP (Upstream Facing Port) denoting their roles.
When a USB Type-C cable is connected, it creates a current path between the 5 V supply and ground, enabling the determination of USB C cable pinout attachment and orientation by monitoring the voltage on the DFP CC1 and CC2 pins. Additionally, the Rp-Rd path is used to communicate the source’s current capabilities, with different voltages indicating varying power levels.

VCONN Pin

To support high speed data transfer and power flow, special cables with electronic marking may be needed, along with active cables that incorporate re-driver chips to strengthen signals. To power the circuitry within these cables, a 5 V, 1 W supply can be applied to the VCONN pin, as depicted in below Image.

USB C VCONN Pin

Active cables employ Ra resistors to pull down CC2 pins, allowing the DFP to determine cable orientation while delivering power to the relevant circuitry inside the cable.

SBU1 and SBU2 Pins

The SBU1 and SBU2 pins are low-speed signal paths exclusively used in the Alternate Mode.

USB 2.0 VS 3.x Series Modules.

USB 2.0 and USB 3.x series modules offer different capabilities and features. USB 2.0 utilizes a simpler pinout configuration and supports basic differential pair topology. However, when using USB-C with USB 2.0, an adapter is required due to the differing pin count and receptacle/plug mating. It’s important to note that mismatched pull-up resistors can cause power-related issues and potential damage to devices.

Pin Des	A1	A2	A3	A4	A5	A6*	A7*	A8	A9	A10	A11	A12
Pin Name	GND			VBUS		D1+	D1-		VBUS			GND
Pin Name	GND			VBUS					VBUS			GND
Pin Des	B12	B11	B10	B9	B8	B7*	B6*	B5	B4	B3	B2	B1

On the other hand, USB 3.x modules utilize high-speed differential pairs, allowing for significantly higher data transfer rates compared to USB 2.0. USB-C connectors were introduced alongside USB 3.1, and all subsequent USB 3.1+ cables natively support USB-C. USB 3.x standards also offer the capability to output additional current. In USB 3.x mode, the USB 2.0 differential pairs are generally unused. However, some devices may utilize them simultaneously with USB 3.x or as backup lines in case of USB 3.x transmission failure.

Pin Des	A1	A2*	A3*	A4	A5*	A6	A7	A8	A9	A10*	A11*	A12
Pin Name	GND	TX1+	TX1-	VBUS	CC1				VBUS			GND
Pin Name	GND	RX1+	RX1-	VBUS					VBUS			GND
Pin Des	B12	B11*	B10*	B9	B8	B7	B6	B5*	B4	B3*	B2*	B1

Overall, USB 3.x provides faster data transfer speeds and additional capabilities, while USB 2.0 allows for longer cable lengths. It’s important to choose the appropriate module based on specific requirements and compatibility with devices.

In this article, we have explored the usb c connector pinout, unraveling the various pins and their functions. The type c usb pinout is a crucial aspect to understand when working with USB-C cables and devices, as it determines the capabilities and functionalities of the connector.

Visit Apphone.com today to explore the latest USB-C solutions and elevate your digital connectivity experience. Your journey into the world of usb-c pinouts has never been more promising, thanks to the innovations and quality that Apphone consistently delivers. Choose us for a superior connection.
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Why do 24-Pin USB Connectors Use 16-Core Wire?

The use of 16-core wire in 24-pin USB connectors may seem puzzling, but it’s primarily due to the versatility and future-proofing of USB Type-C connectors. While a USB Type-C connector physically has 24 pins, not all of them are used in all situations. The extra pins accommodate various functionalities, including high-speed data transfer, power delivery, alternate modes, and more. By using 16-core wire, manufacturers can ensure that they have enough conductors to handle these diverse functions while also leaving room for future enhancements. This flexibility allows USB Type-C to support an array of devices and applications, making it a truly universal connector.

How Are the Core Wires Soldered to the USB-C Connector?

Soldering the core wires to a USB-C connector is a precise and delicate process. The usb-c connector pinout has multiple pins in a small space, and each pin serves a specific function, such as data transmission, power delivery, or ground. To solder the core wires, each wire corresponding to a specific pin must be carefully aligned and attached to the corresponding pin on the connector. This requires specialized equipment and skilled assembly, as misalignment or incorrect soldering can lead to connection issues or damage to the connector. Manufacturing facilities use automated machinery or skilled technicians to ensure the precise attachment of core wires to USB-C connectors. At APPHONE we excel in the precise soldering of core wires to USB-C connectors. With reliable processes and skilled personnel, we ensure seamless and dependable connections. Trust APPHONE for high-quality manufacturing and initiate communication inquiries with confidence.

What is Common USB-C Manufacturing Terminology?

Here are some common USB-C manufacturing terminology;

Surface Mount Technology (SMT): This is the process of attaching electronic components to the surface of a printed circuit board (PCB). USB-C connectors are often mounted onto PCBs using SMT.
Reflow Soldering: Reflow soldering involves melting solder to attach components to a PCB. This is a common method used in USB-C manufacturing to ensure secure connections.
Wave Soldering: Wave soldering is an alternative soldering method where a wave of molten solder is used to solder through-hole components, which may be used in some USB-C connectors.
Quality Control (QC): USB-C manufacturing involves rigorous quality control processes to ensure that connectors meet industry standards and specifications.
Alternate Modes:USB-C supports various alternate modes, such as DisplayPort and Thunderbolt. Manufacturing may involve configuring USB-C connectors to enable these modes.
Thermal Management:Managing heat is essential in USB-C manufacturing, especially when dealing with high-power applications, such as laptops and smartphones. Proper heat dissipation mechanisms may be incorporated into the design.
RoHS Compliance: USB-C manufacturing often adheres to the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive, ensuring that connectors are free from certain hazardous materials.