Only one USB-C data cable can realize data exchange between multiple devices, but you can't just buy a USB-C data cable to achieve the function you want.
USB-C and USB Type-C are the same thing
USB-C interface is the abbreviation of USB Type-C, different names for the same interface, don't be confused.
Type-C or USB Type-C is a physical interface standard
USB-C is one of the implementations of this interface
Features of USB-C interface
It is ultra-thin, has no front and back sides, and has fast transmission speed. It can be used for charging, data transmission, video output and other functions.
Ultra-thin: The size of the USB-C interface is 8.4mm x 2.6mm, which is much smaller than the traditional USB-A interface (12mm x 4.5mm), and can be applied to more thin and light devices.
No front and back sides: The USB-C interface adopts a symmetrical design, so you don’t have to worry about plugging it in the wrong way. No matter how you plug it in, it will work normally.
Fast transmission speed: The USB-C interface supports the latest USB 3.1 Gen 2 standard, with a transmission speed of up to 10Gbps, which is twice as fast as USB 3.0 (5Gbps).
Multi-function: The USB-C interface can support multiple functions at the same time, such as charging, data transmission, video output, audio output, etc. You only need one USB-C cable to connect multiple devices.
In October 2022, the European Parliament passed a bill: (1) From the
end of 2024, all new portable smart devices must use the USB Type-C
charging interface; (2) From 2026, USB Type-C will also become the
standard interface for laptop chargers.
Type-A is the most widely used interface standard for computers and electronic accessories. Most mice, USB flash drives, and data cables use this interface, and it is also the largest in size.
Type-B is generally used for external USB devices such as printers, scanners, and USB HUBs.
Type-C has a much smaller size than both Type-A and Type-B. It is the latest USB interface appearance standard. This interface has no difference in the positive and negative directions and can be plugged in and out at will.
U port
Because the appearance is like this, C port data cables with different functions and speeds have different functional restrictions on each pin, which is also the reason for the different Type-C data cable options on the market.
It also supports data transmission, DP video output and USB PD protocol charging functions, and supports more luxurious docking devices. The full-featured USB-C data cable is indeed rich in functions, and one cable can solve many problems. However, for many people, only charging and data transmission are the must-have items of the USB Type-C interface, and other functions are optional. Whether it is a mobile phone manufacturer or a PC manufacturer, they can make choices based on product positioning and cost. This also forms the phenomenon that we may not be able to use all functions at the same time during use.
The USB-C interface on the monitor can support data uplink transmission. I believe everyone has felt the widespread application of USB-C. Now even the monitor is equipped with a USB-C interface, which is convenient for players to connect various display devices and USB devices. The USB-C downstream interface supports PD fast charging; through the USB-C upstream interface, the laptop can also be used to expand the display. When two computers are connected to the monitor at the same time, with the full-featured USB-C interface, KVM switching can be realized, and a set of keyboard and mouse can be used to achieve separate control.