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Mar 14, 2025

What is the USB PD protocol? What is the difference between Type-C and traditional USB interfaces?

I. Definition and origin of the USB PD protocol

The USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) protocol is a communication protocol developed by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). It is designed to achieve fast charging, power transmission, and high-speed data transfer through the USB Type-C interface. It was initially created to meet the demand for higher power output from smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices, as the traditional USB power supply (such as the standard 5V voltage for USB 2.0/3.0) could no longer satisfy the charging requirements of these devices.

 

II. Analysis of the core parameters of the USB PD protocol

Power output: The USB PD protocol supports voltages of 5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, and 20V, and currents of up to 5A, providing a maximum charging power of 100W. Compared with traditional USB charging standards, USB PD can offer higher power output, thus enabling faster charging speeds and higher charging efficiency.

Intelligent negotiation: USB PD communicates between the power adapter and the device through the configuration channel (CC) to negotiate the required voltage and current. After the device is plugged into the power adapter, the CC pin begins communication, the device requests the required power configuration, and the adapter responds by providing the corresponding power.

Bidirectional power supply: USB PD supports bidirectional power transmission, allowing devices to act as both power providers and power receivers. This means that devices can charge each other, increasing the flexibility of device usage.

Multi-device support: USB PD can power multiple devices simultaneously, improving charging efficiency. This is very practical for users who need to charge multiple devices at the same time.

 

III. Comparison between Type-C interface and traditional USB interface

Interface type comparison

Interface type

Features

Type-C interface

Supports reversible plugging, smaller size, more convenient for device design.

Traditional USB interface(such as Micro-USB, USB-A)

Does not support reversible plugging, relatively larger size.

Data transfer speed comparison

Interface type

Data transfer speed

Type-C interface

Supports high-speed data transfer standards such as USB 3.1, USB 3.2, and USB4, with a maximum speed of up to 40Gbps.

Traditional USB interface

USB 2.0 has a maximum speed of 480Mbps, and USB 3.0 has a maximum speed of 5Gbps, which is relatively slower.

Power supply capability comparison

Interface type

Power supply capability

Type-C interface

Supports the USB PD protocol, capable of providing up to 100W of power output.

Traditional USB interface

Typically only provides 5V/0.5A or 5V/1A power supply capability, unable to meet the charging requirements of high-power devices.

Appearance design comparison

Interface type

Appearance design

Type-C interface

More slender, suitable for the design needs of ultra-thin devices.

Traditional USB interface

Relatively bulky, less suitable for ultra-thin devices.

 

IV. Purchase recommendations

Consider device compatibility: If your device supports the USB PD protocol and Type-C interface, choosing the corresponding charger and data cable can provide faster charging speeds and higher data transfer efficiency.

Power demand: Choose the appropriate power output based on your device's requirements. For high-power devices such as laptops, it is recommended to choose Type-C interface devices that support 100W power output, such as: https://www.sztigerstrong.com/adapter/laptop-power-adapter/usb-hd-1080p-business-webcam.html .

Portability: Type-C interface devices are usually smaller and more portable, suitable for users who often need to carry them out.

Multi-device compatibility: If you need to charge multiple devices simultaneously, choosing Type-C interface devices that support the USB PD protocol can better meet your needs, such as: https://www.sztigerstrong.com/adapter/laptop-power-adapter/8-in-1-wireless-usb-charging-station.html .

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