What is USB 3.0?
USB 3.0 is a revision of the original “Universal Serial Bus,” which allows for data transfer from one device to another, and from a “mother device” such as a computer or a game console to a flash drive version of the USB. These connectors are small and convenient and frequently serve a wide range of uses. In addition to its versatility of use, these cords are universally compatible with many different devices.
The Difference Between USB 2.0 and USB 3.0
Even though they may look the same, USB 3.0 made some major improvements from USB 2.0. Firstly, the 3.0 offers a much higher file transfer rate of up to 4.8Gbps. This is ten times faster than that of the USB 2.0. It also accommodates a higher power in the “bus” of the USB, which allows it to be used with more powerful devices and lets devices such as phones and iPods charge more quickly. USB 3.0 is also much more power-efficient, and allows computers and game consoles to save power when idle. It also is more accommodating to bulk transfers – meaning that one can transfer both large files and a large number of files without a problem. Another very important improvement is that you can use a longer cord with USB 3.0 because of the improvement electrical qualities of the cable. Lastly, USB videois much easier because of the enhanced bandwidth. Before, it was a hassle and the pictures didn’t come out right. But now, with the increased transfer rate, the device isn’t pushed so hard (USB 2.0 struggled with devices such as Blu-Ray players and webcams.)
Backwards Compatibility
The USB 2.0 is a very popular data bus and is widely used with a wide array of devices. It could even be considered a universal standard. Therefore, with the advent of the 3.0 it is understandable that it would be an issue if the two weren’t compatible. However, this isn’t a problem because an awesome feature of USB 3.0 is that it is backwards compatible with virtually all USB 2.0-compatible devices.
Why the Change?
Some would claim that USB 2.0 was good enough and that it was unnecessary to improve upon it. It is true that sometimes the USB 3.0 is overpowered – but this is never a problem. If anything it is a benefit because it allows for far better power management in the system. With the ever-increasing modernity of technology, it became essential to work on things as basic as the USB cord. And with this, allows for accommodations with the future of electrical equipment.
Devices that Use USB 3.0
Just as with USB 2.0, there is a large array of devices that enable the use of USB 3.0 cables and USB adapters. Because of its high transfer rates and powered bus, it is suitable for flash drives and cords when you are trying to transfer really big files, a lot of different files, or even both. It can be used with computers, game consoles, Blu-Ray players, DVD/CD players and much more. Practically any device that involves data transfer can enable the use of the USB 3.0 cord.