USB 3.0

It has been over a year since Intel and the USB Implementers Forum finalized the details of USB 3.0. Since that time, we haven't heard much about it, until now. This year at CES, USB 3.0 is finally coming to life. With many companies beginning to develop USB 3.0 hardware, it is safe to say that you will soon begin to see USB 3.0 (also known as SuperSpeed USB) showing up in computers and devices. Since this new technology is on it's way, I thought I would give you the scoop on just how awesome USB 3.0 will be.

What is USB 3.0 (SuperSpeed USB)?

USB 3.0 is the next step in USB technology. With new devices coming out every day, there is a need for a faster technology to transfer data to your computer. Some devices such as Blu-ray players and very large external hard drives simply need to transfer data faster than what USB 2.0 is currently capable.

How Fast is USB 3.0?
USB 3.0 is up to 10 times faster than USB 2.0. For example, if you have a 1GB flash drive, it would take 33 seconds to transfer the entire contents to your computer using USB 2.0. Using USB 3.0, it will only take just over 3 seconds!! If you have an HD movie that is 25GB, it would take 13 minutes on usb 2.0. It will only take 70 seconds with USB 3.0.

When Can I Get USB 3.0?
USB 3.0 is just now getting off the ground. Here at CES, the representatives told us that they have only approved 70 products so far, but many more are coming quickly. You should start to see USB 3.0 computers and devices appearing this year.

What happens to my USB 2.0 stuff?
No need to worry here. The makers of USB 3.0 made sure that all of the USB 2.0 devices will work on USB 3.0 ports. If you get a new computer that has USB 3.0, you will still be able to plug in your 2.0 equipment. You will only get 2.0 speeds from the 2.0 devices, but at least they will work without costly upgrades.

So, as I'm sure you can see, USB 3.0 is a very exciting technology. It will not only pave the way for faster data transfer now, but also provide a high speed protocol for future devices that may demand more bandwidth.

~Gary