USB-C ports have been around for more than a decade in consumer electronics and they are now being used in industrial computing hardware. With the ability to transmit both data and power on the single cable, USB-C ports simplify system design and facilitate high speed data communication for complex applications like machine vision.
What exactly is USB-C and how does it work?
USB-C is an industry-standard connector that can transmit data, video and audio signals, and even PCI-Express signals. It supports much higher power transmission than USB-A or other USB connectors. The USB-C connector was developed by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), the group of companies that has developed, certified and shepherded the USB standard over the years. The USB-IF counts more than 700 companies in its membership, among them Apple, Dell, HP, Intel, Microsoft and Samsung.
With just a single USB Type-C cable connected to a device, power, video input and touch panel signal are all able to transmit simultaneously. This simplifies the typical two to three cables that are needed to operate a display to just one.
The higher speed supported by the connector and the protocol also allows HD video streams to be easily transferred for machine vision applications. Higher performance data transfer and power distribution all-in-one can significantly reduce the complexity of industrial system design.
Why deploy industrial hardware with USB-C?
The USB Type-C technology offers a new generation of convenience for the world of industrial connectivity.
The benefits include:
- Reversible connector design. It eliminates the frustration of trying to plug-in a connector the wrong way. The reversible connector design is beneficial in industrial environments where users may be working in low-light conditions or with limited visibility.
- A variety of protocols and data transfer standards, including USB 3.1, USB3.2 and even Thunderbolt 3. Its compatibility allows for faster data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps, making USB-C an attractive option for industries that rely on high-speed data communication. USB-C can deliver higher power levels, supporting devices that require more energy without the need for separate power sources.
- Flexibility for system design. Another advantage of USB-C is its capability to support alternate modes, which enable a single port to handle multiple functions. For instance, USB-C can be used for video output, allowing users to connect displays and external monitors directly through the same port used for data transfer and power. This multifunctionality streamlines connectivity in industrial setups, reducing the number of required ports and cables, which can lead to a cleaner and more organised workspace.
Why more industrial applications will use USB-C
A system with USB-C ports is ideal for tight-fitting spaces such as in vehicles, control cabinets and kiosks where too many cables are an inconvenience. The ability to connect an industrial device with other peripherals via just one cable keeps environments tidy. Whether it’s automation, embedded systems, building automation, smart city, industrial IoT or industrial automation, USB-C connectors can improve system design and simplify wiring.
The automotive market has already discovered the benefits. Panel PCs or industrial monitors with a USB-C connectors are used in modern trucks and cars to display high-performance video. With only one port, the display is very clear whether displaying video media, in-vehicle sensor data or maps.
The USB-C port is a growing trend in industrial computing design. CyberVisuell has included a USB-C port in its latest industrial computing hardware, including the TBOX fanless PC series and PPC All-in-one touch Panel PC series, available from ESIS. Be the first to deploy this new technology into your industrial projects – contact us now to discuss your requirements!
ESIS Industrial Electronics offers a range of industrial computing solutions, including rugged tablets, data loggers, industrial displays, integrated computing platforms and programmable interfaces for direct PLC integration. Talk to us about solutions to keep your business operations running efficiently.
Article courtesy of Taicenn.
