Nowadays, more and more mobile phones are using type c (or USB c) interface data cables. Although all type-cs look the same, there are actually many different types.

At the most basic level, type-c only refers to this specific USB plug, along with some cable wiring specifications. So type-c only tells you what the line looks like, and it does not describe any specific speed, capability, or supported data protocols. It is basically designed as a more modern and futuristic plug. The type-c plug has more pins, so it can do more "things", and the plug is symmetrical, so there is no need to be afraid of inserting it backwards.

In addition to appearance, we also need to consider some of its parameters, such as power and data transmission rate. Although it does not describe any specific speed or power function, it still has the smallest specifications. For example, all Type-C cables should support at least 3 amperes of current and 60 watts of power. Moreover, since both ends of the type-c cable are the same, it must be connected so that it can send data and power in the same way, which is called a "dual role".

This is different from previous USB cables, where the "host" end (such as your computer) typically has USB A connectors, while the "device" has other connectors such as Micro USB, Mini USB, or USB B.

Let's take a look at the different possible speeds of type-c cables. Some people may already be familiar with USB 3.1 or "super speed" USB, which supports speeds up to 10Gb. Obviously, type-c is not any of these things. Similarly, type-c is just a connector, while USB 3.1 is the data transmission standard. On the contrary, type-c cables can use one or more of the USB standards. This can be the USB 2.0 interface, 3.0, 3.1 Gen1, or 3.1 Gen2. It will have different maximum speeds based on the USB speed level it uses. This means that even if Type-C is the latest brand new connector, its speed may be the same as a regular USB 2.0 cable, only 480Mbps. Of course, it may also support USB 3.1. So when buying a line, pay attention to the parameters.

Let's take a look at the current and power again. Some charging cables can reach 5 amperes and 100 watts, which is much higher than the standard 3 amperes and 60 watts. However, not all type-C cables or devices can achieve this. If cables, chargers, and devices all support power supply, type-c also has some special features. For example, charging a device as large as a monitor does not require additional plugs to the wall, and all data and power are transmitted through type-c cables.

In addition, power transmission is not only about sending power, it also conveys information about connecting devices. Because if the cable or device does not support power supply, the power supply will default to only sending 3A, but if it sees that it supports power supply, it needs to know more information, such as how much power is used. In addition, the transmission of power can utilize the "dual role" capability of type-c, so a port can serve as a power input or output, and even switch between modes. That's why in the latest Mac computers, you can charge them by plugging cables into the type-c port, all of which can also be used to power the device itself.

Let's take a look at the different protocols supported by type-c, called "standby mode". Currently, there are four, DisplayPort, ThunderBolt, HDMI, and MHL. MHL is used to connect smartphones and televisions. The micro USB commonly used for mobile HDMI adapters uses MHL. As before, any given type-c cable may or may not support these protocols, although these protocols may not necessarily use type-c. Obviously, both DisplayPort and HDMI have their own interfaces, but ThunderBolt 3 will specifically use type-c. There are actually two types of ThunderBolt 3 cables. There is an "active" cable with 40Gbps and a passive cable with 20Gbps.

This is a very tricky issue, as each 'backup mode' has different compatibility with USB Typec schemes. Isn't it very chaotic? Forget it, we don't care about it either. Just plug it in and it will work. I hope the standards will be unified in the future.