USB Type-C is a new USB connector shape that is able to utilize the capabilities of USB Power Delivery and USB 3.1 for faster data transmission over a USB connection. Most users will recognize the traditional USB Type-A connectors, which have long been the standard for USB connection. This is because although USB technology has progressed through USB 1, USB 2, and USB 3, the connector has stayed the same. A growing demand for USB integration with smaller devices, such as smartphones and digital cameras, has resulted in a wide array of different USB connectors being introduced, including micro USB and mini USB connectors.
USB Type-C connection takes the functionality of all the different types of USB connections and consolidates them into one standardized USB connection. Type-C connectors are 60% smaller than the traditional Type-A connector, are more durable, and are the same size and shape from device to device. Type-C also supports a variety of different protocols which allow for HDMI, VGA, DisplayPort, and more to be used through Type-C via an adapter to allow a variety of displays from one single USB port. Type-C cables can be used for power charging as well and offer bi-directional power, meaning that aside from charging a peripheral device, when applicable, a peripheral device could also be used to charge a host device. In addition, Type-C is the first USB connector with a reversible design, meaning that users never have to fumble around trying to plug it in right-side-up ever again. Type-C is regarded as a super-speed cable and can handle up to 10Gbps as well as support the delivery of video with resolution of up to 3840x2160.
Despite being a versatile connector, USB Type-C‘s actual capabilities are ultimately determine by the underlying USB technology being used. USB 3.1 (Gen. 1) provides a bandwidth of 5Gbps, which is more than ten times faster than the previous USB technology. Larger power supply is also supported, allowing the supply of up to 60w of power to peripheral or mobile devices. In addition, USB 3.1 (Gen. 1) is backwards compatible, meaning that even older USB peripherals can still be used by plugging them into an adapter.
KVM (Keyboard, Video, and Mouse) Switch is a hardware device that allows users to control multiple computers from one keyboard, video monitor, and mouse. Formerly, KVM Switch technology connected multiple computers via USB Type-B connections. With the introduction of KVM Switch with Type-C however, users can now utilize KVM Switch with their Type-C compatible devices, such as Macbook and Chromebook.
KVM Switch is a practical way for users to switch between Windows and Mac operating systems. A single keyboard, monitor, and mouse make it particularly useful when working on two computers but with insufficient room for multiple peripherals. KVM Switch with Type-C allows users to integrate all the benefits of USB 3.1 Type-C into their KVM Switch control to create a more productive workspace. Control from one set of peripherals also allows for more efficient, more comfortable, and less cluttered user-friendly management of multiple devices.
KVM Switch Type-C is easy to use as well. A Type-C cable and Type-B cable are used to plug the computers that will be used into the back of the monitor to connect them with KVM Switch. The keyboard and mouse that will be used with KVM Switch are to be plugged into the back of the monitor as well. KVM Switch allows users to switch control from one computer to another, with the KVM routing signals between the computers and the keyboard, monitor, and mouse. KVM Switch only works while in PBP (Picture By Picture) mode and a shortcut can be accessed from the touch panel on the front of the monitor.