Why Are There Multiple Types of Computer Cables Instead of One Universal Type with a Switch to Change Functions?

Every peripheral and interconnection in consumer computers, from the very first personal computers to modern devices, often opts for proprietary cables rather than common standards. Each has unique power and data requirements, much like the variety of vehicles on the road today. While initiatives like the Universal Serial Bus (USB) aim to address this by providing a common, versatile connection, the reality is more complex.

The Complexity of Peripherals and Interconnection Standards

As technology evolves, so do the needs and requirements of peripherals and components. Older computers often had dedicated ports for specific functions, such as parallel (printer) ports, PS2 keyboards and mice, serial ports for communication, MIDI interfaces, and VGA for displays. Each had its own protocol and functionality, which made them proprietary and non-interchangeable.

The Rise of USB and Its Limitations

The USB protocol was designed to address these issues by providing a universal interface for data and power delivery. Reversible Type-C connectors have taken USB to a new level, offering high bandwidth, power up to 100 watts (W), and up to 20 volts. Despite its advantages, USB faces limitations when it comes to certain peripheral requirements. For example, devices like audio peripherals and gaming displays often need specific connectors to ensure optimal performance and signal quality.

Reasons for Keeping Proprietary Connectors

While USB aims to be the go-to standard, some devices and peripherals are still connected via proprietary interconnects for specific reasons. This can be due to:

Monetary and Retention Purposes: As with Apple’s use of proprietary connectors, companies may adopt them to retain customer loyalty and ensure compatibility with their ecosystems. Custom Requirements: Some peripherals and devices have unique needs that existing standards don’t meet. Incorporating full USB chipsets would be unnecessary or impractical.

Physical and Functional Constraints

The choice of cables isn’t just about standardization. There are real-world constraints to consider:

Signal Degradation: Higher bandwidth and power demands can introduce signal degradation, especially over long distances. This limits the use of USB for certain applications. Power Consumption: The cost and energy efficiency of integrating high-power delivery capabilities into every device make it impractical for full-sized computers to rely solely on USB power.

Trends and Future of Connectivity

Looking ahead, we may see a shift towards wireless protocols and consolidation of current standards. For example:

Wireless Protocols: As wireless technologies mature, we might see most devices transition to wireless connections. This trend is already evident in the increasing use of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for peripherals. Screen Display: Increasing bandwidth on USB could eventually lead to the replacement or consolidation of display ports like HDMI and DisplayPort. USB Type-C already supports display synchronization, but further advancements could solidify this standard.

In conclusion, while USB aims for a universal solution, the complexity of peripheral requirements and the constraints of current technology mean that multiple types of computer cables will continue to exist. As technology continues to evolve, expect to see a blend of traditional and emerging standards to meet diverse user needs.