USB and Peripheral Connections

Overview

• USB (Universal Serial Bus) is a common method for connecting peripherals to computers (e.g., mouse, keyboard, printer).
• Evolution through USB 1.1, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB 3.2, and USB-C.

USB Versions

USB 1.1

• Low Speed: 1.5 Mbps, 3-meter cable length
• Full Speed: 12 Mbps, 5-meter cable length

USB 2.0

• Speed: Up to 480 Mbps
• Cable Length: 5 meters

USB 3.0

• Also Known As: SuperSpeed USB
• Speed: 5 Gbps
• Common Cable Length: 3 meters

USB 3.1

• Renamed USB 3.0 to: USB 3.1 Gen 1 (SuperSpeed USB, 5 Gbps)
• New Standard: USB 3.1 Gen 2 (SuperSpeed Plus, 10 Gbps)

USB 3.2

• USB 3.2 Gen 1: Formerly USB 3.0/3.1 Gen 1, 5 Gbps
• USB 3.2 Gen 2: Formerly USB 3.1 Gen 2, 10 Gbps
• USB 3.2 Gen 1x2: 10 Gbps using two Gen 1 lanes
• USB 3.2 Gen 2x2: 20 Gbps using additional lanes

Connectors

• USB 1.1/2.0: Standard A, Standard B, Mini B, Micro B
• USB 3.0 Connectors: Enhanced for higher speeds
• USB-C:
  • Reversible connector
  • Supports multiple signals (data, video)
  • Slightly larger than Micro B

Thunderbolt

Thunderbolt Versions

• Thunderbolt 1: 10 Gbps per channel, 20 Gbps total
• Thunderbolt 2: Channels aggregated, 20 Gbps total
• Thunderbolt 3: USB-C connector, 40 Gbps total

Features

• Supports data and power on the same cable
• Can be used over copper (3 meters) or fiber (60 meters)
• Daisy chain up to six devices

Legacy Serial Connections

• RS-232: Used 9-pin and 25-pin connectors
• Common Uses: Serial communication with devices, configuring devices via serial consoles

Summary

• USB has evolved through various standards, increasing speeds and altering connectors.
• USB-C and Thunderbolt have introduced more versatility and power delivery in connections.
• Legacy connections like RS-232 are still in use for specific applications like serial console access.