Learn about USB from the USB Experts.

USB stands for Universal Serial Bus. The USB is the standard that is used to connect peripherals to a computer. And it’s by far the most commonly used port. And the reason why it’s so commonly used is because just like its name says, it’s universal. The USB port is used to connect many different kinds of devices, such as keyboards, mice, cameras, printers, scanners, external hard drives, flash drives, and they can even do networking and so much more. And it’s also used to charge devices such as cell phones, and desktops on laptops will have several USB ports.

USB Connector
Guide

Learn about the different types of USB cables, connectors,
and ports.

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Protocols & Transfer Speeds

Learn about the different types of USB cables, connectors,
and ports.

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USB
Isolation

Learn about the different types of USB cables, connectors,
and ports.

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Why USB?

USB has gained in popularity over many of its predecessors like serial and parallel ports for many reasons. Here are a few that make USB a popular choice for connectivity:

  • Plug and Play – USB devices can be plugged right into the port and are ready for use once the driver software is loaded.
  • Speed – USB 1.0 can transfer data up to 1.5 MB/Sec, USB 2.0 can reach speeds of 60 MB/Sec. USB 3.0 can reach speeds of 625 MB/Sec (also known as SuperSpeed), while USB 3.1 (SuperSpeed+) can reach speeds of up to 2.5 GB/Sec.
  • Cost Effective/Expandable – USB hubs and cables are extremely inexpensive making the ability to build an infrastructure very affordable. By using hubs and cables, as many as 127 USB devices can be connected to one port.
  • Hot Swappable – USB devices can be connected and disconnected without first turning the power off.
  • Noise Immunity – For applications like remote or industrial I/O, the use of USB devices moves sensitive data conversion circuitry out of the noise filled PC environment and places it up to 5 meters away at the other end of the USB cables.

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