USB4 version 2.0, first announced last month, includes an official specification document for developers to follow. USB-IF (USB Implementer’s Forum), the governing body of USB, new document (opens in new tab) At the same time, we are unveiling a new “USB 80 Gbps” certification logo that can be used on USB cables and devices that reach speeds of 80 Gbps.
USB 4 (technically USB4, but usually spelled with a space) was announced in 2019, supporting connections up to 40 Gbps and offering cross-compatibility with Thunderbolt 3 and 4. , up to 120 Gbps in one direction (40 Gbps downlink) to power high-definition monitors.
Using the bandwidth of USB4 v2.0, this standard is fully compatible with DisplayPort 2.1 and can power up to 4K displays at up to 240 Hz or up to 10K displays at 60 Hz without the need for compression. increase.
“This updated technical specification extends the speed and data protocol performance of USB4, enabling manufacturers to develop products that can offer end users USB 80 Gbps in addition to the existing USB 40 Gbps and USB 20 Gbps. It will be a statement.
USB4 version 2.0 works with both existing USB4 40Gbps passive cables and new active 80Gbps cables. In addition to being compatible with DisplayPort 2.1, the USB-IF says it will “tightly work” with PCIe 4.0.
Given that the original USB 4 specification was announced in 2019 and we’ve seen USB 4 branded products in the last few months, it could be a year or two before USB4 v2.0 devices hit the market. I don’t think so. However, when USB4 v2.0 devices are released, they may see a new USB 80 Gbps logo on their packaging and ports.
USB-IF has told Tom’s Hardware several times that consumers don’t need to worry about version numbers when purchasing products. Instead, the group advertises to manufacturers the maximum speed of all their USB products, using monikers and logos such as USB 5 Gbps, USB 10 Gbps, USB 20 Gbps, USB 40 Gbps, and now USB 80 Gbps. want to advertise.
Products that have gone through the organization’s official certification process can use the “Certified 80 Gbps” logo on their packaging.
Other devices and even computers that support 80 Gbps connections can use the 80 Gbps port logo if they are certified.
Certified cables carry the 80 Gbps, 240 W logo if they can output 240 watts, and the 80 Gbps, 60 W logo if they can output 60 watts.
Keep in mind that most USB products are not certified, so you may not see these logos when 80 Gbps devices and cables come along. The USB-IF also wants manufacturers to mention speed and output in their marketing materials, but only mention USB 4 v2.0, USB 4, or USB 3.2 without mentioning Gbps. You will still see the list of products you have.
To help you understand all the version numbers, we have a detailed USB description and special details about USB 3.2 and USB 3.1.
