What Is USB?

USB stands for Universal Serial Bus. It is an industry-standard interface that enables communication and data transfer between electronic devices and computers.

USB utilises a standardised connector and protocol to facilitate the connection and exchange of data between devices. It allows peripherals such as keyboards, mice, printers, external storage devices, and smartphones to be easily connected to computers and other host devices.

USB connectors come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific purposes and data transfer speeds. Common types include USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, and Micro USB. USB-C, known for its reversible design and high-speed data transfer capabilities, has become increasingly popular in modern devices.

• Versatility: USB supports a wide range of devices, making it a versatile interface for connecting peripherals, external storage, audio devices, and more.
• Plug-and-Play: USB devices can be hot-swapped, meaning they can be connected and disconnected from a computer without needing to restart the system.
• High-Speed Data Transfer: USB technology has evolved to support increasingly faster data transfer rates, with newer versions such as USB 4.0 and USB 4 2.0 offering significant improvements in speed over older iterations, with maximum transfer rates of 40 Gb/s and 80 Gb/s respectively.
• Power Delivery: USB can also provide power to connected devices, allowing them to charge or operate without the need for additional power adapters in many cases.

USB is widely used in various electronic devices, including computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, printers, cameras, audio interfaces, and other consumer electronics. It has become the standard interface for connecting peripherals and transferring data in both personal and professional settings.