Have you ever found yourself in the frustrating situation of connecting a USB Type-C cable to extend your display, only to be met with silence? This common dilemma often stems from the limitations of the USB ports in use. In response to this issue, Microsoft is taking proactive steps to enhance the reliability of USB connections.
New Standards for USB Type-C Functionality
According to a recent announcement on the Microsoft USB Blog, writer Ugan-Sivagnanenthirarajah elaborated on the motivations behind this initiative and the strategies Microsoft plans to employ. The company is rolling out a new system aimed at ensuring that all USB ports function seamlessly, particularly for devices adhering to the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP).
To achieve this, Microsoft mandates that all WHCP-compliant hardware equipped with USB Type-C must incorporate USB-IF-certified silicon. This requirement ensures that every USB-C port on a certified PC can deliver efficient and consistent charging through USB Power Delivery. Furthermore, all Type-C ports must support DisplayPort Alt-Mode, facilitating the connection of additional monitors, and must be validated using Microsoft’s proprietary USB controlling drivers.
For a port to earn the USB4 certification, it must meet several criteria: achieving a maximum data speed of 40 Gbps or higher, providing up to 15 W of power to accessories (with 7.5 W allocated for tablets), supporting PC charging, accommodating a minimum of dual 4K displays at 60 Hz, and ensuring compatibility with both PCIe and Thunderbolt 3.
The testing process for these standards is conducted through Microsoft’s Hardware Lab Kit (HLK). Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), silicon vendors, and accessory brands are required to run these tests and submit their findings to Microsoft. If any issues arise during testing, certification is paused until the problems are rectified in either hardware or firmware.
Microsoft’s drive to establish these standards comes in light of the confusion surrounding USB ports on modern PCs. As noted by the company, “manufacturers can implement ports that look identical but differ wildly in functionality,” leading to potential misunderstandings for consumers. This initiative aims to clarify the capabilities of USB Type-C ports and provide confidence when purchasing WHCP-certified devices.
While this move may serve as a strategic public relations effort for Microsoft, especially following recent workforce reductions and protests at its Build conference, the emphasis on standardization in USB technology is a welcome development for users navigating the complexities of modern connectivity.
