USB Introduction
Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a standard for connecting computers and various devices, widely used across a range of equipment from personal computers to digital TVs and gaming consoles. In the early days, external devices used different transmission interfaces such as parallel ports, RS232, and PS/2, causing inconvenience. In order to standardize the connection method and enable hot-swapping, USB emerged.
USB offers key benefits including simplicity, versatility, and support for hot-plugging. It requires no dedicated drivers and works seamlessly with a wide range of devices. As USB technology continues to evolve, USB4 now supports transfer speeds up to 80 Gbit/sec including an optional bandwidth boost feature that enables 120Gbps data rates. The USB Type-C® connector adds convenience with its reversible plug, making connections easier than ever.
Overall, USB plays a vital role in enabling seamless, efficient connectivity across consumer, professional, and industrial applications, supporting the increasingly digital and connected world.
USB4® — The New Era of Faster, Smarter Connectivity
USB4 is the latest generation of the USB standard, offering data transfer speeds of up to 80Gbps with an optional bandwidth boost to 120Gbps. . It combines the strengths of previous USB versions while streamlining high-speed data, anddisplay,—all through a single USB Type-C® connector. With support for 4K/8K video, and high-performance peripherals, USB4 sets the new standard for modern laptops, desktops, and mobile devices.
註：USB4 These products must USB Power Delivery 或快速充電並無直接關聯。
USB-IF
The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) is a non-profit organization founded by leading tech companies including Apple, HP, Intel, Microsoft, Renesas, STMicroelectronics, and Texas Instruments. Its mission is to advance USB technology and ensure a reliable, high-quality connectivity experience for users worldwide.
USB-IF plays a key role in:
- Developing USB specifications – Defining technical standards to ensure device compatibility and performance.
- Managing certification and EU conformity programs – Enabling products to undergo compliance testing and earn USB certification and/or USB conformity status.
- Promoting USB technology – Supporting industry adoption through education, events, and global outreach.
USB-IF continues to drive the evolution of USB technology to meet the demands of modern devices and applications. Learn more at the official USB website.
USB Certificaiton Process
(1) Apply for the VID and Register the TID for your product
To obtain USB certification, you or brand owner must have a USB Vendor ID (VID). Once you have access to the official USB-IF website with your account credentials, you can register your product for a Test ID (TID). A valid TID is required before any certification testing can proceed. Please apply for a VID here:https://www.usb.org/getting-vendor-id
(2) Prepare the VIF, documents and test samples
Before conducting USB and USB Power Delivery (PD) certification testing, please prepare the following materials:
- 2 sets or more of test samples
- USB Product Information Form
- USB Cable/Connector Product Information Form
- Vendor Information File（VIF）：
This file declares the capabilities of your product. It must be loaded into the test equipment to compare the device’s declaration and real functions. This is a required file for testing, please ensure the latest version of the VIF is prepared before testing. - If your product is an Embedded Host and requires a specific command to enter test mode, please providethe command in advance..
FAQs
1. How to become a USB-IF member?
Visit the USB-IF official website to complete your membership registration:https://www.usb.org/members
Trademark
USB, USB-C®, USB Type-C®, and USB-IF are registered trademarks of the USB Implementers Forum.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for reference only and does not constitute an official communication from the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). For official information, please visit the USB-IF website at usb.org or contact USB-IF directly.
Get Insight News