USB-C Connections and Audio-Video over IP Technology
In the realm of AV content sharing over Ethernet, USB-C connectors and AV-over-IP networks form a perfect match, creating a connection utopia. The unique blend of flexibility and capabilities makes USB-C an excellent choice for AVoIP applications.
"USB-C can be used in multiple ways," explained Samuel Metivier, Director of Applications Engineering at USB-C signal extension solutions for AVPro Global Holdings. "It can facilitate the transfer of USB signals, act as an intake for DisplayPort video, or even function as a conversion point for AVoIP video signals into USB Video Class [UVC] devices."
Point-to-point connections between AVoIP network nodes and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) devices are where USB-C truly shines, as stated by Ted Wolfe, CTO of Symetrix. "USB-C's high data rates, ability to carry various AV and control protocols, and the increasing demand for standardized connectors make it the preferred choice for point-to-point connections."
Quality plays a significant role in the successful implementation of USB-C connections. A good USB-C cable should have a robust build quality, not be excessively thin, and display the USB-IF logo to exhibit the cable's capabilities. The best USB-C cables should support at least 100 watts of power delivery and include a smart E-Marker chip for optimal performance.
As you observe the Pro AV world, you'll find USB-C being utilized in a multitude of installations due to its versatility. Computer connectivity is a prominent use case for Symetrix, with USB-C often employed to connect Teams and Zoom devices to integrated audio systems or BYOD devices. AVPro Global Holdings frequently encounters USB-C usage for interactive touchpanels, all-in-one video displays, and even KVM switchers in smaller mini PCs for UCC rooms. Extron experiences a comparable situation, with USB-C primarily used in UCC spaces that require video output and USB data connections for room USB cameras and microphones during Teams or Zoom meetings.
The combination of speed, power delivery, versatility, protocol compatibility, and simplicity makes USB-C incomparable to any other connector in terms of ease of use. According to Symetrix's Ted Wolfe, "This unique combination provides an ease of use that no other connector can match." Extron's Joe da Silva adds, "USB-C simplifies the interface connections needed at a conference table or lectern, offering real cost-saving solutions that reduce installation costs and operational needs for AV systems in any space."
While USB-C dominates the Pro AV landscape, it's important to compare it with other connection options. Compared to USB-A and Micro USB connectors, USB-C offers more capabilities due to USB-C's format including up to 15 additional pins. This extra real estate allows USB-C to support connection-orientation negotiation, SuperSpeed USB data, and power delivery over a single cable. As for Apple's Lightning connector, it is reversible but doesn't support USB-C high-speed data rates, and requires adapters to transition to other connector types. Thunderbolt uses the USB-C connector, but offers a higher performance standard than USB. It is fully backward compatible with USB, so a device that supports Thunderbolt can also support USB video, data, and power capabilities. In comparison to HDMI, Metivier states, "Using the USB-C in the DisplayPort Alternate Mode with Multi Stream Transport allows for up to four extended monitors to be sent over the same cable. In my opinion, this added flexibility could be crucial for some applications versus HDMI’s single display support."
In conclusion, USB-C offers a more versatile, powerful, and standardized connection option for AV over IP applications compared to HDMI, Lightning, and Thunderbolt. Its ability to handle power, multiple data types, high-speed data transfer, wide device compatibility, and audio streaming capabilities make it an ideal choice for AV network setups, simplifying and future-proofing the infrastructure.
When discussing the utility of USB-C in AV over IP applications, Samuel Metivier from USB-C signal extension solutions for AVPro Global Holdings noted that USB-C can function as a conversion point for AVoIP video signals into USB Video Class [UVC] devices, making it a versatile option for various installations.
Ted Wolfe, CTO of Symetrix, emphasized that USB-C's high data rates, ability to carry various AV and control protocols, and the increasing demand for standardized connectors make it the preferred choice for point-to-point connections in Pro AV installations, including UCC rooms, interactive touchpanels, all-in-one video displays, and KVM switchers in mini PCs.
