What You Need to Know About USB-C

The biggest players in technology are moving toward adopting USB-C and the Power Delivery standard in their latest devices. That means we can charge all our favorite tech (laptops, phones, speakers, smart watches, etcetera, etcetera) using the same cord, with the same connector.

USB-C can charge bigger devices than the USB we’re used to, and it charges faster too – about 70% faster actually.?While these advancements are great, understanding how Type C works for our unique devices can get a little confusing. We’ve put together some quick explanations and helpful hints to help you get the most out of your USB-C charge.

SUPER FAST CHARGING AND POWER DELIVERY

Power Delivery (PD) is a fast charging protocol. It’s a standard that USB-C charging aligns, so that everyone’s devices are compatible and have the same basic functionality. It’s kind of like how ‘Qi’ is the universal standard for wireless charging. It’s a common language that allows technology & chargers to speak together and a common standard to which they’re tested.

OTHER NOTES ABOUT USB-C AND POWER DELIVERY

• With the launch of USB-C PD, charging power levels have increased up to a robust 100 Watts and 3 amps of power. And it’s this increase in power delivery that allows a USB-C cord to charge more power-demanding tech, like laptops, monitors, and even some printers.
• Because USB-C connectors were specifically designed with Power Delivery in mind, they’re able to carry this new higher wattage without being damaged or overheating.
• USB-C PD is smart. It delivers the power needed to charge a specific device as fast as possible without delivering too much, for optimal charging every time. How does it know? Well, the PD communicates with a device to determine how much power can be pulled from the charger, so it will never overpower or damage your tech.

HOW MUCH POWER DO YOU REALLY NEED?

We know that USB-C PD can deliver up to 100 Watts of power, but is understanding how much power a device needs important? Yes—sort of. You’ll want to check the specs on any device before you buy, because not all USB-C ports are created equal. That means plugging into a 60 Watt charger when you only need 15 Watts is completely fine, but using too small of a charger means you may not be able to charge as fast as you’re used to. The good news is, because USB-C is smart, you can’t overcharge your device.

Obviously, outliers exist, but this chart gives you a pretty good idea of the kind of wattage your device needs to get a good charge.?

BYRNE IS ON BOARD

We understand that USB-C is positioned to be the new industry standard—which is why we already offer this universal interface in many of our products. We’ve integrated USB-C into a variety of desktop and mobile power units, and it’s even available as an interchangeable “chiclet,” allowing you to customize nearly any Byrne power unit with a USB-C option. Shop all the USB-C Byrne has to offer here or configure your own USB-C power solution here .

Watch Byrne’s latest video here for more information on new USB-C chiclet options, smart charging, and how to choose which charge is best for you.

Want to learn even more? Head over to shop.byrne.com .