USB-C in 12-Inch MacBook Adds Limitations but Opens Up Possibilities

- September 25, 2012

apple's newest macbook 1 of first computers take advantage of usb type-c specification, finalized in august of 2014. usb-c uses small reversible connector that's similar in size lightning connector, larger.

in addition delivering power apple macbook (it's capable of delivering 100 watts @ 20 volts), usb-c has displayport alternate mode connecting monitors, cables, docking stations, , more, plus supports usb 3.1 data transfers 5gbps (apple using gen 1 usb 3.1) , has support vga , hdmi connections. it's able deliver bi-directional power, meaning lets macbook charged , through same port, lets macbook charge other devices.

usb-c upgrade usb-a, standard usb ports many of used on our computers, , usb-b. usb-b used many of in portable devices take advantage of micro-usb, commonly found in peripherals printers. in addition impressive data , power transfer rates, usb-c has benefit of being easy plug devices, lightning cable.

apple's adoption of usb-c might seem of annoyance because requires users buy expensive adapters , adjust new connection, it's huge step forward company opens possibility of whole range of new apple-compatible accessories , devices.

usb-c first non-proprietary charging system apple has introduced. macbooks use magsafe , ios devices use lightning connectors, both of designed apple, giving apple strict control on how they're used.

apple lets product developers incorporate lightning connectors and ports through mfi (made iphone) certification program, company not have magsafe licensing program , has not allowed hardware manufacturers create products use magsafe connection in macbooks.

forces manufacturers create items macbook backup batteries use actual connectors apple's ac adapters, grafted onto products. apple has not looked kindly on practice in past, , has levied lawsuit against @ least 1 company using method create hardware macbook.

usb-c port in macbook, apple not have control on products developed it, paving way whole range of accessories not possible before, backup batteries.

future of usb-c bright, adopters, usb-c experience might frustrating because notebook has single usb-c port. apple sells adapters, adapters include 1 usb-c port, meaning it's not going possible macbook buyers charge devices , use product lacie's new usb-c porsche design mobile drive @ same time using usb-c port.

one of apple's new usb-c adapters

presumably manufacturers @ work creating hubs include multiple usb-c ports use myriad products going use new specification, currently, wanting use usb-c storage drive have decide between charging , accessing data or using older usb-a port data transfers.

usb-c brand new technology, apple embracing it, won't long before see tons of companies racing produce usb-c compatible products. apple undoubtedly spur competitors adopt standard well. may not long before we're able charge whole range of our devices single cable, ending days of having carry around magsafe chargers, usb cables, micro-usb cables, lightning cables, , more.

article link: usb-c in 12-inch macbook adds limitations opens possibilities