Now we can talk about the official birth of micro-USB. His appearance on the mobile device market was not difficult to predict. Due to miniaturization, the previous contact types of communication are gradually being replaced by more compact ones. The transition to the new serial I / O port connector has already been supported by the largest companies around the world. But why do mobile device manufacturers continue to use seemingly outdated forms of information exchange? After all, there are already contactless methods of data transfer, for example, IrDA or Blue Tooth.
To answer these questions, you need to consider how the micro-USB connector works. It consists of a 5-pin. Two of which are wires for the exchange of information. Next comes the power, and a protective screen. Compared to its predecessor, it has become much smaller, but the principle of its work has remained the same.
This port is powered by constant voltage (+ 5V), and its presence in the line reduces possible interference with the transmission of information. The same function is performed by the protective screen. Moreover, the presence of power allows the use of a micro-USB connector for chargers.
This is the main advantage of micro-USB over wireless communication devices. This is primarily a great noise immunity, and the ability to use this port as a constant voltage source to recharge the battery.
The operation of the serial I / O port is controlled using a special controller. A good prospect in increasing the speed of data exchange is to increase the clock frequency of the device. That is, miniaturization of the connector is not the last step in the development of this type of communication.
Compared to wireless devices, it should be noted that IrDA communication is very sensitive even to direct sunlight or to a nearby device with a similar operating principle. Even turning on the camcorder or the remote control from the TV may interfere with its normal operation.
BlueTooth wins in distance when transmitting data (several tens of meters) and is better protected from interference than its predecessor (IrDA), due to the higher operating frequency. But still loses to the wired connection in noise immunity and data transfer speed.
To connect a mobile device with a personal computer, you can use the micro-USB adapter, as a rule, they can always be purchased at
specialized stores. Or it comes with the device. Only the moment that structurally new connectors are available in Micro-A and Micro-B versions should be taken into account. That is, before purchasing it is necessary to check compatibility.
As a rule, the micro-USB cable has a short length, this is due to a parameter such as noise immunity. During operation, it must be located away from mains wires or other sources.
Apparently, the new connector has good prospects and will take root in the mobile device market for a long time. It has good operational characteristics, and in some parameters overtakes alternative forms of communication.