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Inside USB-C — Explained

Inside USB-C — Explained

27/08/24

Most nights, I spend time asking random questions on ChatGPT to learn about hardware, electronics, how everyday products are built. Here's one on UCB-C cable (explained in a simple way) ↓

A typical USB-C charging cable is made with 6-7 parts.

  1. The part that goes into computer or phone. It's made with strong Nickel-plated brass pins that are durable, don't rust.. so it keeps working. This pin is encased in hard plastic case (mostly ABS). The case is strong, doesn’t break easily, and keeps the metal safe from your fingers.

  2. Second part is the copper wires. About 4-5 of them. These move power and data. Copper is an excellent conductor of electricity, offering low resistance and efficient power/data transfer. The difference in wire gauge (AWG) reflects the different current and data transmission requirements. 28 AWG for power, 32 AWG for data. The internal wires are twisted together to minimise electromagnetic interference & ensure stable signal transmission.

  3. Then, there's insulation of cable wires, shielding, and cable cover The wires get covered in soft plastic (PVC or TPE) to keep them from touching each other. Then, they get another layer of aluminium foil for shielding. TPE bends easier & is environment friendly. PVC is cheaper. A copper braid is also applied to shield the wires further. Finally, everything gets put inside a strong outer cable cover with a flexible plastic (PVC/TPE/TPU). It protects everything inside from getting hurt. Some types bend easily and last longer, while others are cheaper.

  4. Now it also needs bend protectors (or, strain relief components) -- something that stops the cable from breaking when you bend or twist it. They are moulded at both ends of the cable. This reduces the stress on the internal wires and connectors during bending or pulling.. making the cable last longer. Bend protectors are usually made with tough rubber or TPE.

  5. Lastly, a special rock (ferrite) is used to suppress high-frequency noise and reduce signal noise. This optional component is used mostly in cables intended for high-speed data transfer. It's positioned near connectors and enclosed within the hard plastic case.

Here's a video of how these are made:


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© crafted with care & coffee. please don't copy.

© crafted with care & coffee. Please don't copy.