Accurate Technologies
Accurate Technologies

USB 3.0 vs. 2.0

24.02.19 11:21 AM By Steven

ATI’s AE1000 uses USB 3.0, offering faster/better options over its predecessors.

You may be comfortable and familiar with USB 2.0, but ATI is now launching an Automotive Ethernet adaptor (the AE-1000) with USB 3.0. What does this change signify? Well, you can step into the fast lane of data transfer with USB 3.0 – a technological leap that not only outpaces its predecessor by up to 10 times but also revolutionizes syncing and charging, providing an efficient power boost for mobile platforms.


So, let’s explore how this cutting-edge USB technology is reshaping the way we connect and power electronic devices. Firstly – speed. In optimal conditions USB 3.0 is up to 10 times faster on data transfer compared to USB 2.0.


Next, efficiency. USB 3.0 not only synchronizes data faster than its predecessor, but it also charges devices faster (at 900mA per USB 3.0 port,) meaning that it’s an excellent power management technology ideal for mobile platforms.


USB 3.0 is also compatibility agnostic. It’s backward compatible with both USB 1.1 and 2.0, ensuring seamless connectivity across various devices and avoiding unnecessary obsolescence. This enables users to opt for gradual upgrades to external devices, saving the costs of having to immediately replace them.


With regards power efficiency and output, USB 3.0 enhances the overall energy performance of connected devices and boasts an improved current (9A) output compared to USB 2.0’s 0.5A. This equates to 4.5 Watts from a standard 5V output, meaning that connected devices charge significantly faster.


Arguably the largest positive impact of USB 3.0 speeds lies in the efficiency and time savings it brings to various data-intensive tasks, making it an asset for users who prioritize speed and productivity. For example, if a 25-gigabyte Blu-ray film takes approximately 14 minutes to transfer using a USB 2.0 interface a USB 3.0 interface will transfer the same film in just 70 seconds, making it 10x faster.


With these faster speeds, files previously transferred using USB 2.0 can be in a fraction of the time, significantly improving efficiency. This enables USB 3.0 to provide seamless media streaming, with a smoother and uninterrupted experience. Faster data transfer facilitates quicker backups and syncing, reducing the time required for routine data management tasks.


USB 3.0 is capable of higher transfer rates due to utilizing five more pins than previously used in USB 2.0, which allows both the host and device to operate in dual channels. This enables a significantly faster data transfer than was possible using USB 2.0’s single-channel transmission which could only receive or transmit a single signal and often resulted in bottlenecks.


USB 3.0 can transfer up to 5 Gbps. For certain applications, especially those involving external storage or fast data transfer between devices, USB 3.0 may provide sufficient speed without the need for Ethernet infrastructure. This is a key user benefit because setting up USB connections is significantly simpler than configuring Ethernet connections. Typically, USB devices can be plugged in and recognized by a system without requiring additional network configurations.


Ethernet connections typically require additional hardware such as routers, switches, and cables to establish a network. USB 3.0 on the other hand, only requires compatible ports on the connected devices, making it far more user-friendly.


Hence why ATI’s new AE-1000 the incorporation of USB 3.0 offers a simple solution for higher speed devices. Its 9-pin DB connection accommodates Automotive Ethernet with speeds that can be matched by its new USB 3.0 technology without data bottlenecks. This enables the AE-1000 to behave as the perfect intermediate plug and play media converter product for connected devices still operating under 5Gbps, without requiring the complications of an external Ethernet network.

Steven