USB has long been proven to be a dependable, flexible and simple-to-use interface that is a staple for a multitude of applications. Along the way, USB has adapted to offer a variety of formats to fit today’s technology needs. From power delivery to SuperSpeed USB 3.1 Gen 1 and Gen 2, USB has got you covered. Now the interface is taking things to another level with the introduction of USB 3.0 active optical cables (AOC).
Active optical cable technology uses the same electrical inputs as traditional copper cabling, but with optical fiber between connectors. With electrical-to-optical conversion on the cable ends, AOC provides faster speeds and distance performance while also maintaining compatibility with standard electrical interfaces. Building upon the features of AOC, USB 3.0 AOC is made to be compliant with SuperSpeed USB electrical specifications, allowing for easy plug-and-play use and continuous operation between existing a USB 3.0 host, a USB 3.0 powered hub and other USB devices.
These USB cables have an ultra-thin profile and much longer reach than a standard USB cable. In fact, they can reach speeds of 2.2 Gbps at over 100 meters. This allows for USB 3.0 AOC cables to be used in new and different ways USB might not have been able to before, such as with security cameras, industrial and medical machine control systems and in high-def surveillance applications. These cables are capable of speeds up to 5 Gbps, depending on the length of the cable. They also boast low power consumption and minimal EMI/RFI since fiber optic technology is being used.
Though USB 3.0 AOC is not backwards compatible, it will not support older USB standards, there are many other features that make it worthwhile. Overall, USB 3.0 active optical cables can be a great option if you have an application requiring USB connectivity over a long distance that traditional USB cables cannot meet. What is USB-A? And, if you're interested, check out the information on this USB A pinout that we have posted.
To help you with your next high-speed, long distance USB application, check out our active USB 3.0 cables.
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