The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) has released the USB4™ specification, a significant update to the next-generation USB architecture that builds on the existing USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 architectures. The USB4 architecture is based on the Thunderbolt™ protocol standard, which Intel Corporation has delivered to the USB Promoter Group. It increases USB's maximum aggregate bandwidth and allows for various data and display protocols to run simultaneously.
In March 2019, the USB Promoter Group announced the creation of the USB4 standard. It is now officially released by USB-IF and may be downloaded at USB-IF website www.usb.org.
What is USB4?
Universal Serial Bus 4, according to Wikipedia, marketed as USB4 and sometimes referred to as USB 4.0, is a new technical specification of the Universal Serial Bus data connection standard, released on 29 August 2019 by the USB Implementers Forum.
USB4 allows sharing a single, high-speed data link with multiple devices dynamically. USB4 devices must support 20 Gbit/s data transfer rates and, optionally, the rates of 40 Gbit/s (USB4 version 1.0). In contrast to prior USB protocol standards, USB4 mandates the exclusive use of the USB-C connector and USB Power Delivery specification.
USB4 architecture is based on USB 3.2 specification. It also incorporates elements of the Thunderbolt 3 protocol; however, interoperability with Thunderbolt 3 products is mandatory only on selected USB4 device types.
Key characteristics of the USB4 solution include:
- Two-lane operation using existing USB Type-C® cables and up to 40Gbps operation over 40Gbps certified cables
- Multiple data and display protocols that efficiently share the maximum aggregate bandwidth
- Backward compatibility with USB 3.2, USB 2.0 and Thunderbolt 3
As the USB Type-C connection has expanded to serve as the external display interface for many host goods, the USB4 standard allows the host to properly scale allocations for display data flow. Even though the USB4 standard adds a new underlying protocol, compatibility with current USB 3.2, USB 2.0, and Thunderbolt 3 hosts and devices is maintained; the resulting connection scales to the best mutual capabilities of the devices connected. For further information, you can go to the USB-IF website www.usb.org.
About USB-IF
The non-profit USB Implementers Forum, Inc. was formed to provide a support organization and forum for the advancement and adoption of USB technology as defined in the USB specifications. The USB-IF facilitates the development of high-quality compatible USB devices through its logo and compliance program, and promotes the benefits of USB and the quality of products that have passed compliance testing. Further information, including postings of the most recent product and technology announcements, is available by visiting the USB-IF website at www.usb.org
USB4™, USB Type-C® and USB-C® are trademarks of USB Implementers Forum. Thunderbolt™ is a trademark of Intel Corporation.
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