At GCT, we have developed a comprehensive portfolio of USB products over the past 20 years. The standard was originally introduced to connect peripheral devices to host computers. As a rule, computers used USB Type-A connectors while peripheral devices used the USB Type-B format. Although the standard USB Type-B connector can still be found on large devices such as printers, the need for ever smaller devices resulted in the introduction of the microUSB 2.0 Type-B connector, which has grown in popularity. So much so that the EU made it the standard IO for charging almost ten years ago and, as such, it remains the engineer’s connector of choice.

There is a rise of devices requiring change only functionality. A good example is consumer technology, such as headphones and speakers, which are quickly moving to wireless data transfer. Since its introduction four years ago, developers have been exploring the feasibility of using USB Type-C. Its fast charging capability, small size and reversible form factor are highly attractive features for development engineers. However, up until now, the additional cost of the PCB receptacle has been a barrier.

To address this, our engineering team has worked closely with these engineers to develop a charge only version. By sacrificing the SuperSpeed differential pair contacts, 8 in total, the modified 16-pin construction of the GCT USB4085 USB Type-C provides all the required full charge capabilities with streamlined USB 2.0 functionality. It gives engineers the real option of improving the charging capability of their designs at a price that is well within reach.

"Its fast charging capability, small size and reversible form factor are highly attractive features for development engineers. However, up until now, the additional cost of the PCB receptacle has been a barrier"