USB-C for Pro AV Design Guide

A Practical Guide to USB-C and USB Technology

USB – Universal Serial Bus – was initially developed in the mid-1990s as a cable, connector, and communications protocol standard for local connections between computers and electronic devices. It replaced serial, parallel, and other port technologies used by computing devices to connect peripheral equipment such as a keyboard, mouse, printer, etc. The first USB specification was released in January 1996. Over the years, the USB specification has been updated multiple times. These updates improved performance in data throughput, power delivery, and audio and video transport.

While USB technology continues to evolve and grow in popularity, many AV system designers and integrators can find themselves overwhelmed when trying to figure out how to integrate USB devices into projects. To help with this challenge, Extron has created an invaluable reference tool for AV professionals working with USB.

The USB-C for Pro AV Design Guide takes you through the technology, from early inception to current standards that incorporate the USB-C connector. It covers the fundamentals of cables, connectors, and communication protocol standards for connectivity between USB hosts and peripherals. Sections within this guide explain the types of USB connectors, USB-C integration with AV, and design considerations. It also provides system design examples in a variety of scenarios that are typical for USB-C, such as Zoom® and Microsoft® Teams® rooms and esports applications. This handy resource can help you increase the numbers and types of projects you bid on and win.

Extron offers a wide variety of USB connectivity solutions and products that support or include USB ports. Extron USB cables support data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps. For ultimate flexibility, Extron USBC Pro 8K Series and USBC Pro Series active, hybrid optical-copper USB‑C cables simultaneously transmit DisplayPort AV, USB data, and power signals over distances up to 30 feet. Extron USBC-HD and USBC-DP adapter cables are ideal for integrating 4K video sources with USB-C ports that support DisplayPort Alternate Mode into new or existing HDMI or DisplayPort AV systems.

Extron USB switchers, transmitters, hubs, and other products are designed for easy integration in professional AV applications. They are USB 3 compatible and backward-compatible with the previous USB data rate specifications. Multiple models support data rates up to 10 Gbps. All models provide power for connected USB peripherals and feature RS-232 control for ease of integration with other Extron products. These products and more are showcased in this guide to USB-C.