Type-C Port in Computer Network

Type-C (or USB-C) is a 24-pin USB connector system. This is distinguished by its two-fold rotationally symmetrical connector. The USB Type-C Specification 1.0 was published by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). It was finalized in August 2014. A device that implements USB-C does not necessarily implement USB Power Delivery, USB 3.1, or Alternate Mode. 

The USB-C connectors connect to both hosts and devices. This has replaced various USB-B and USB-A connectors and cables with a standard meant to be future-proof. It is a 24-pin double-sided connector and is slightly larger than the micro-B connector. It measures around 8.4 millimeters (0.33 in) by 2.6 millimeters (0.10 in). The receptacle features four power and four ground pins, two differential pairs for high-speed USB data, four shielded differential pairs for Enhanced SuperSpeed data in which two transmit and two receive pairs, two Sideband Use (SBU) pins, and two Configuration Channel (CC) pins. 

The plug has only one high-speed differential pair, and one of the CC pins is replaced by VCONN which powers electronics in the cable while the other is used to actually carry the Configuration Channel signals. These signals are used to determine the orientation of the cable that also carries USB PD communications. For connecting an older device to a host with a USB-C receptacle a cable or adapter with a USB-A or USB-B plug or receptacle on one end and a USB-C plug on the other end is required. 

Features of Type-C ports: 

Reversible Connector: The Type-C connector has a reversible design, which means that it can be inserted into the port in any orientation. This makes it more convenient and easier to use.

High-Speed Data Transfer: Type-C ports support high-speed data transfer rates of up to 10 Gbps, which is significantly faster than USB 2.0 or 3.0 ports.

Power Delivery: Type-C ports can provide power to devices that support it, up to 100 watts. This feature allows for fast charging of devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

DisplayPort Support: Type-C ports also support DisplayPort technology, which allows for the connection of external monitors, projectors, and displays.

Audio Support: Type-C ports support audio connections, which means that devices with Type-C ports can connect to speakers, headphones, and microphones without the need for additional adapters.

Multi-Protocol Support: Type-C ports support multiple protocols, including USB, Thunderbolt, and HDMI. This allows for more flexibility in connecting different devices.

Compatibility: Type-C ports are designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops. This makes it easier to use and more versatile than other types of ports.

Advantages of a Type-C:

1. It’s small. The port is half the width and one-third the height of a standard USB connector and only slightly larger than Apple’s Lightning or the micro-USB connectors. 
2. It’s reversible. Unlike older USB cable, it doesn’t matter which side is up with a Type-C plug i.e. you can insert it either way. 
3. It’s fast. Type-C ports can transfer data using the zippy speeds of the latest version of the USB protocol which is up to 10 gigabits per second. 
4. It’s powerful. The new connector can provide up to 100 watts of power which is enough to power a laptop. 
5. It’s flexible. Via adapters, users will be able to connect older devices to Type-C ports which means even devices that use non-USB technologies, like DisplayPort, VGA, and Ethernet. 

Disadvantages of Type-C:

1. Many devices still do not support USB Type-C. Being the most versatile connector there are still some devices that are not coming with USB Type-C support. 
2. Users and exposed to some security threats: Some recent studies showed that the new USB Type-C ports are very thin in terms of security. Malware like BadUSB can enter laptops through firmware in the cable without the user knowing. 

Comparison of USB Type-C and Other USB Connectors

Connector Type	Reversible Design	Data Transfer Speed	Power Delivery	DisplayPort Support	Audio Support	Multi-Protocol Support	Compatibility
USB Type-C	Yes	Up to 10 Gbps	Up to 100W	Yes	Yes	Yes	Wide range of devices
USB 2.0	No	Up to 480 Mbps	Up to 2.5W	No	No	No	Limited
USB 3.0	No	Up to 5 Gbps	Up to 4.5W	No	No	No	Limited
USB 3.1	No	Up to 10 Gbps	Up to 100W	No	No	No	Limited

Note: USB 2.0 and 3.0 connectors are the standard USB connectors that were commonly used before the introduction of USB Type-C. USB 3.1 connectors also exist, but they are less common than Type-C connectors.