USB-C Resource Centre

The USB Revolution

Technology is continually evolving, bringing faster, more useful and user-friendly tools into our lives

USB-C (also known as USB Type-C) is the next evolution of cable connectivity for your laptops, phones, tablets and other portable technology devices.

Learn more about the latest in cable connectivity...

What is USB-C?

USB-C differs from the standard USB-A and B by offering faster transfer speeds, a thinner and reversible profile and power through support, to name a few. USB-C was developed by the USB Implementers’ Forum (USB-IF). The industry body that seeks to improve the use of USB.

The body includes some of the industry’s biggest players including Apple, Dell, Intel, Microsoft, and Samsung. With backing from such industry greats it is without doubt that USB-C will become the standard cable connection. As such our devices will benefit from the great features that USB-C has to offer.

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What can the USB-C cable be used for

USB-C is being adopted by a large list of technology providers. Most notably the Apple Macbook.

Don't worry when considering purchasing a USB-C compatible device. You can still use your old USB-A

cables; however, you will need an adapter. LASER offers a range of adapters for all your USB needs. Connect your USB-A cable to your new USB-C compatible device with one of these adapters.

USB 3.1 and USB-C

USB-C is not the same as USB 3.1. They were developed simultaneously but related to different aspects of USB. USB 3.1 refers to the generation of USB, and USB 3.1 is the current and fastest generation of USB. USB-C specifically refers to the shape of the plug.

USB 3.1 Superspeed

The SuperSpeed+ USB 10Gbps (USB 3.1 Gen 2) specification adds up to 10Gbps speed. It uses a more efficient data encoding delivering more than twice the effective data through-put performance of existing SuperSpeed USB. It is fully backward compatible with older USB connectors and cables, and generation 1 offers 5Gbps. Products carrying these logos are certified Superspeed products.

Power pass-through

USB-C can pass up to 100 Watts of power through the cable. As many new USB-C portable devices only have one port. This means that your USB-C port will be used to transfer files and charge your device. At the same time, it can transfer power from your device to a peripheral device such as a printer

USB-C Features

What is USB-C Power Delivery (PD)?

Power Delivery (PD) is the transfer of power across a USB cable to charge a device. You can charge your phone, power bank, camera, bluetooth speaker, portable headphones and more. Some devices, such as your laptop or monitor, require much more power. To charge high- power devices, look for a mention of PD Power Delivery, and also consider the watts delivered.

The higher the watts, the more power is delivered to your device. The power is automatically adjusted to suit the device. This means you can confidently plug in different devices with different power requirements without risking damage.

For example, some laptops require only 30 watts to charge them. Models such as the Macbook However, the Macbook Pro 15" will need 90 watts or higher to charge it. While some lower- wattage chargers will charge your laptop, they might not if the laptop battery is 0%. Or they might charge but not increase the % on the battery. To charge most USB-C laptops successfully, you will require a 40 watts or higher PD power bank.

What is Qualcomm Quick Charge?

Qualcomm Quick Charge is similar in functionality to Power Delivery. It can be found in type c or standard USB A.

However, Quick Charge is not locked into the 4 voltage types of Power Delivery, L.e. 5V,9V, 12V and 20V. Quick Charge voltage can range between 3.6 V to 20 V and everything in between - in 200 mV increments.

With added intelligence, Quick Charge can better detect a connected device's optimal charging voltage and current requirements. Such sophisticated design is mostly found in high-end smartphones and tablet devices, as opposed to such devices as Digital Cameras, Portable Hard Drives, Notebooks, Printers and TVs. You must have a Quick Charge-supported device to charge your phone with Quick Charge. Many new Samsung and other Android phones support quick charging. Check with your manufacturer.

Not all cables are the same

The new standard in USB connectivity is a cable that not only transfers data, but also power. Due to this, customers take into account the safety features of the product and consider protection from potential fires or electrocution. The average consumer stores their sensitive information in their portable electronic devices, therefore buying the right cable from the right supplier is important to ensure your and your device's safety.

LASER sources high-quality cables from USB certified factories to ensure your safety and the protection of your devices. Cables are tested for physical strength, wear and tear and power delivery output. LASER cables exceed quality and compliance standards.

All connector housings are built with high-density Polycarbonate or Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) for strength and durability and cables are shielded by a protective Thermoplastic Elastomer jacket. Inside, the cables are built with high density, high conductive oxygen free copper alloy 24-28 AWG thick conductors, for maximum file transfer and power delivery and maximum Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI) shielding.

Power Delivery (PD) 100W

Provides a faster charging experience

Power Delivery (PD) 100W refers to the ability to deliver up to 100 watts of power through a USB-C connection (power level of 100 watts). This high-power level enables the fast charging of all sorts of power-hungry devices, e.g., laptops, gaming consoles, some small appliances

How the PD100W works:

USB-C Connector

PD100W utilises the USB Type-C connector, a versatile and reversible (transfer power and data both ways) connector that supports both a power and data transfer.

Power Negotiation

When a PD-capable device is connected to a PD power source, the two devices communicate the power requirements via the standardised protocol, known as the USB Power Delivery protocol.

Power Proﬁles

PD supports multiple power profiles, which define specific voltage and current levels for power delivery. The power source advertises the available power profiles it can provide, so the charging device selects the appropriate profile based on its power requirements and limitations.

Voltage and Current Levels

PD100W supports a range of voltage and current levels to deliver up to 100 watts of power.

Dynamic Power Allocation

PD allows for dynamic power allocations, which means that the power source and device can adjust the power delivery in real-time. This allows for efficient charging and ensures that the device receives the appropriate amount of power without exceeding its limits.

Charging Efficiency and Safety

PD includes mechanisms to monitor and regulate the charging process, ensuring efficient power transfer while maintaining safety.

The Laser Range of USB-C solutions

Chargers