USB-IF Published USB4 Specs

USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), the support organization for the advancement and adoption of USB technology, announced the publication of the USB4 Spec, an update to deliver the next-gen USB architecture that complements and builds upon the existing USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 architectures.

The USB4 architecture is based on the Thunderbolt protocol spec recently contributed by Intel Corporation to the USB Promoter Group. It doubles the maximum aggregate bandwidth of USB and enables multiple simultaneous data and display protocols.

The development of the USB4 Spec was first announced in March 2019 by the USB Promoter Group. It is officially published by USB-IF and available for download.

Key characteristics of USB4 solution include:

• Two-lane operation using existing USB Type-C cables and up to 40Gb operation over 40Gb 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 connector has evolved into the role as the external display port of many host products, the USB4 spec provides the host the ability to optimally scale allocations for display data flow. Even as the USB4 spec introduces a new underlying protocol, compatibility with existing USB 3.2, USB 2.0 and Thunderbolt 3 hosts and devices is supported; the resulting connection scales to the best mutual capability of the devices being connected.

The upcoming USB Developer Days 2019 will include detailed technical training covering the USB4 spec and the latest for USB Type-C, USB Power Delivery, and USB-IF branding strategies.

Read also:
USB Promoter Group Announced USB4 Spec
Defining next gen USB protocol architecture and doubling bandwidth to extend USB Type-C performance
March 12, 2019 | Press Release