Once with Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 23419, Microsoft added to settings a dedicated page USB4. On the new USB4 page is available in Windows 11 settings at: Bluetooth & devices > USB > USB4 Hubs and Devices. But, what is USB4 And why is it necessary for additional details for this type of connections?
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In an article Fast, I explained what the differences between the USB-A VS. USB-C, and I said then, as USB-C It supports a wider range of connections and USB standards, depending on the device and connector technology.
When it refers to “USB”, I noticed that many people are confusing between what What does a USB connector mean (the type of cable, with strict design reference), the technology of the type of USB connector and hardware or software compatible with certain USB standards.
What is USB4 and what are the features?
USB4 It is the latest USB interface standard, developed by USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). USB4 does not refer to the type of connector, but to the technology for connecting PC peripherals.
USB4 was launched in September 2019 and came with a significant improvement in the previous USB standards.
Let's see below what are the main USB4 features and why it is necessary for Microsoft to offer in Windows 11 An extended support with exact details about these types of connections.
Compatibility with USB-C
USB4 is designed to operate with the USB-C interface, which is one of the most versatile and used connectivity interfaces. This makes USB4 compatible with a wide range of electronic devices.
In fact, connectors and connecting ports with USB4 support are on the USB-C interface design.
Data transfer speed and multiplexing
USB4 2.0 offers a Maximum data transfer speed up to 80 Gbps. This transfer speed is four times higher than the speed supported by the standard USB 3.2 and eight times greater than USB 3.0. This means that the transfer of large files or the unloading of multimedia content will be done much faster, than on any other USB standard at the moment. (2023).
Due to the high transfer speed, USB4 supports and multiplexing.
USB4 uses a technique called “Multiplexing transfer time” To allow several data flows to be transmitted simultaneously through the same transmission line. This reduces latency and makes the data transfer faster and more efficient.
Fast load with up to 100W
USB4 is an ideal standard for laptops. Provides support for fast charging with high electric power. USB4 can provide up to 100W electric power, which means it can feed and charge electronic devices with higher energy requirements, such as laptops.
There are very new models of laptops on the market where the standard charging port has been replaced with USB-C ports. Apple has been using this type of charging on MacBook, before launching the USB4 standard.
Support for multiple protocols and versions
USB4 is compatible with multiple protocols, including Thunderbolt 3, which means that devices that use these protocols can be used interoperably with USB4.
USB4 is designed to be compatible with previous USB versions. Thus, devices that use previous USB standards will continue to operate with USB4. However, the transfer speed will be limited to the level of the previous USB standard.
USB4 is a good support for DisplayPort and eGPU
Through a USB4 port it is possible to connect an external graphics card (EGPU). USB4 offers native support for DisplayPort, which means it can be used to connect external monitors and other video devices, including external graphics. This makes USB4 an attractive alternative to other video connectivity standards such as HDMI.
The use of an external graphics card through a USB4 port can significantly improve the graphic performance of a laptop or computer desktop, which can be useful for games, multimedia content or productivity tasks that require high performance.
It is important to know that the use of an external graphics card through a USB4 port can be limited by the port speed, so you may not always get the same performance as when using an internal graphics card.
Securities and data encryption
USB4 offers Support for data encryption, which means it can be used to protect confidential data against unauthorized access. This is an important feature for devices that contain sensitive information, such as data storage devices.
Conclusion. What is USB4?
In conclusion, USB4 is a standard USB interface, which offers a wide range of advanced features. From data transfer speed to compatibility with other devices and protocols, USB4 is designed to provide a faster, more efficient and safer use for electronic devices.
USB4 pe Windows 11
Being a Standad used in many applications, for Windows 11 operating systems, it can cause compatibility problems when there are other matters to the computer or laptop.
Arrived at version 2.0, USB4 It produces compatibility problems regarding the connectors used. As I said above, USB4 uses the type of USB 3 connectors, but it can be quite difficult for a user to discover the right cable for this standard and understand the compatibility criteria.
These details about USB4 are currently available only on versions “preview” of Windows 11, but surely Microsoft will introduce them as soon as possible in the final versions.
