The new Type-C USB connector is the latest addition to the USB connector standards. It offers reversible plugs, direction independent cables, USB3.1 speeds, and 3A charging in a connector only a little bigger than the USB 2.0 MicroB connector. In order to add these capabilities the plugs and connectors have additional configuration pins to allow devices to negotiate their state. Supporting the configuration channel may seem like a difficult challenge but it can be achieved fairly simply for the basic use cases.
In this mode the Type-C device is acting as an UFP (Upstream facing port).
This is the equivalent of devices equipped with either a B, Mini-B or Micro-B socket and majority of hobbyist projects will probably fit into this category.
Luckily this is fairly easy to implement as we can avoid worrying about multiplexing or managing connection states.
The simplest implementation of this is to use two 5.1k pull down resistors on the CC lines.
This allows for detection by other devices when using a USB C-C cable.
The USB 2.0 Data lines can both be connected together at the receptacle as only one pair will be populated in the connector.
The power and ground lines will all want connecting to the appropriate power rails on your board.
The Sideband pins and superspeed pins should be left unconnected in this configuration.
If you wish to have a device plug directly into a Type-C receptacle this can be done much the same as above with a few small differences.
As the orientation of the plug is fixed at your end only one pull-down configuration resistor (5.1k) will be needed (the one attached to A5). This needs to be the correct cc channel as some devices multiplex the USB2.0 data lines.
In addition only one set of USB 2 data pins should be present in the plug (A6 and A7) so there isn’t a need to connect to both pairs like the previous case.
For more detail:Â Using USB Type-C on hobyist projects
About The Author
Ibrar Ayyub
I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.
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