Netspark's Blog

Mar 08 2019

USB4 planning in progress

USB4 is already far in progress when it comes to definition of it’s
specifications. All specification details shall be manifested in the
second half of 2019 so that devices and cables can be released in
2020. Compatibility downwards to USB2.0 will be guranteed.

While USB3.2 has recently been made public, there’s yet the problem with the naming scheme. Only the type of plugs has changed in USB3 and USB3.1. in USB3.2 there’s only an improvement of speed.

USB4 will also have just some minor improvements:

Key characteristics of the USB4 solution include:

Two-lane operation using existing USB Type-C cables and up to 40 Gbps operation over 40 Gbps certified cables
Multiple data and display protocols to efficiently share the total available bandwidth over the bus
Backward compatibility with USB 3.2, USB 2.0 and Thunderbolt 3

With over 50 companies actively participating in the final stages of review of the draft specification, the USB4 specification is on track to be published around the middle of 2019. Coincident with the release of the USB4 specification, the release of an updated USB Type-C Specification will be made to comprehend USB4 bus discovery, configuration and performance requirements.The update to the USB-C specification is needed so that USB4 hosts can discover and correctly serve USB-C and USB3.1 devices. Also detection and correct activation of Thunderbolt-based devices is in focus as Intel has pulled further development of the slightly different Thunderbolt implementation. They encouraged the USB foundation team to implement features of Thunderbolt into USB4 specification and development and thus opened full access to the Thunderbolt knowledge base. This is another step to an unified connection concept with one unified bus system and protocol type which should make it easier to connect different types of hardware to a computer with high speed transfer (up to 40Gb/s with USB4).

Intel has made it’s position clear for USB4:

Releasing the Thunderbolt protocol specification is a significant milestone for making today’s simplest and most versatile port available to everyone. By collaborating with the USB Promoter Group, we’re opening the doors for innovation across a wide range of devices and increasing compatibility to deliver better experiences to consumers.

Jason Ziller, General Manager, Client Connectivity Division at Intel.

Also Microsoft is already planning ahead with USB4:

USB4’s high throughput and advanced features enable new scenarios in consumer, enterprise, and intelligent edge markets, while maintaining interoperability with existing USB and Thunderbolt 3 devices. We are excited to work with our partners in the ecosystem to bring USB4 to market and showcase its benefits.

Roanne Sones, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft OS Platforms.

So whatever will come next, the standard will be released soon.

March 8, 2019 Netspark - 1599 posts - Member since: May 9th, 2011 No Comments »

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