The “USB Type-C” is not a new term to consumer electronics. It has been on the market for more than four years and you probably use it every day. But still, this is a totally new solution to the field of industrial automation. Let’s dig into the details, advantages and possible industrial applications of USB-C technology.

With just a single USB Type-C cable connected to your device, power, video input and touch panel signal are all able to operate simultaneously through the same cable. This simplifies the typical two to three cables that are needed to connect 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 the system design and reduce the cost and development time.

Why deploy industrial USB-C solutions?

The USB Type-C technology offers a new generation of convenience for the world of industrial connectivity.

• Faster data transfer: USB-C also builds on the new USB 3.1 standard that allows new speed advantages and transmits the data at 10 Gbps. Compared to the USB 3.0 that can support only 5 Gbps, this is a huge leap ahead.
• Saving the hassle of multiple cables: Alternating mode makes it possible to integrate a single cable to deliver data, audio, video and up to 100 watts of power delivery. The one cable design saves the hassle of having multiple cables, especially in places with space restrictions. Reducing the clutter of cables to manage opens up new possibilities for system design.
• More flexibility for system design: USB Type-C provides unprecedented inter-operability and ease of use. With USB Type-C it is possible to make devices more compact than ever before. It offers flexibility for embedded system designers especially working on mobile computing solutions, tablets and building automation.

The system with USB Type-C connector onboard is suitable for tight fitting places where too much cabling causes inconvenience such as in truck cabins or kiosks. The ability to connect your industrial device to other peripherals with just one cable makes the whole industrial system neat and tidy. Whether you are working on military, health care, building or industrial automation, this is a choice worth considering.

The automobile market has already discovered benefits of new technology. The monitor with only one USB Type-C connector works in a digital cockpit in modern trucks and cars to display high performance video. With only one connector, the display is very sleek and light, and is able to display media, and aggregate sensor data of the in-vehicle system. With the system hub, Alternate Modes deliver entertainment content to the rear seats. The applications of the USB Type-C technology are now endless.

Even though the USB Type-C is relatively new for industrial embedded systems design, it is definitely a growing trend. Be the first to introduce the new technology to your industrial embedded solution. Are you ready to take the plunge?