# USB 3 Standard Type-B receptacle > a class of legacy USB receptacles that preceded USB-C (“B” indicating the peripheral device end) **Wikidata**: [Q134418905](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q134418905) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/usb-3-standard-type-b-receptacle ## Summary The USB 3 Standard Type-B receptacle is a class of legacy USB interfaces located on peripheral devices, designed prior to the widespread adoption of the USB-C standard. It serves as the "B" end of a connection, distinguishing itself as the device-side input rather than the host. This receptacle class has effectively been replaced by the USB-C receptacle in modern hardware. ## Key Facts * **Classification**: It is a subclass of the USB 3 Standard Type-B connector and the USB 3 Standard receptacle. * **Successor**: This class of receptacle was replaced by the **USB-C receptacle**. * **Function**: The "B" designation indicates it is the **peripheral device end** (e.g., printers, hard drives), distinct from the host (Type-A). * **Standards Body**: Maintained and defined by the **USB Implementers Forum**. * **Speed Variants**: Aliases confirm support for various speeds, including **USB 3.0** (5Gbps), **USB 3.1** (10Gbps), and **SuperSpeed**. * **Related Entities**: This class encompasses specific implementations such as the **USB 3 Standard-B receptacle** and the **USB Powered-B receptacle**. * **Common Aliases**: Also known as the Standard USB Type-B receptacle, USB SuperSpeed Standard Type-B receptacle, and USB SS Standard Type-B receptacle. ## FAQs ### Q: What is the primary function of the USB 3 Standard Type-B receptacle? A: It serves as the input port on a peripheral device (the "B" end), allowing it to connect to a host computer via a USB cable. It is specifically part of the USB 3 standard generation that preceded USB-C. ### Q: What replaced the USB 3 Standard Type-B receptacle? A: The USB-C receptacle is the designated replacement for this class of legacy connectors. ### Q: Is the USB 3 Standard Type-B receptacle a specific plug or a category? A: It is defined as a **class** of legacy receptacles. This class includes specific types such as the standard USB 3 Standard-B receptacle and the USB Powered-B receptacle. ## Why It Matters The USB 3 Standard Type-B receptacle represents a critical phase in the evolution of peripheral connectivity, bridging the gap between the original USB 1.x/2.0 standards and the modern USB-C era. Before the industry consolidated around the reversible USB-C connector, this receptacle class was the standard interface for high-bandwidth peripheral devices, supporting "SuperSpeed" data transfer rates of 5Gbps and 10Gbps. Its significance lies in its role as the "upstream" or device-side connector, distinct from the flat Type-A ports found on host computers. While it is now considered a "legacy" class replaced by USB-C, millions of devices utilizing this receptacle are still in use globally. Understanding this class is essential for maintaining compatibility with older professional hardware, external drives, and docking stations that rely on the USB 3.0 and 3.1 architectures. ## Notable For * **Legacy Status**: It is explicitly defined as a class of "legacy" receptacles that preceded USB-C. * **Peripheral Orientation**: Unlike the host-side Type-A or the universal Type-C, this class is specifically designated for the peripheral device end. * **High-Speed Variants**: The class includes aliases for specific performance tiers, such as "USB 5Gbps" and "USB 10Gbps," indicating its capability for high-speed data transfer during its active lifespan. * **Specific Sub-types**: It covers distinct physical implementations like the **USB Powered-B receptacle**, which offered additional power capabilities compared to standard predecessors. ## Body ### Definition and Classification The **USB 3 Standard Type-B receptacle** is defined as a class of legacy USB connectors. It is a child class of the **USB 3 Standard Type-B connector** and the **USB 3 Standard receptacle**. As a "Type-B" interface, its fundamental role is to serve as the **peripheral device end** of a USB connection. ### Evolution and Replacement This class of receptacles is categorized as "pre-C," meaning it belongs to the generation of USB hardware that existed before the standardization of the USB-C connector. Consequently, the **USB-C receptacle** is listed as the direct replacement for this class. It is also a subclass of the broader **USB Standard Type-B receptacle** category. ### Related Connectors Within this class, there are specific related entities and implementations: * **USB 3 Standard-B receptacle**: A specific legacy implementation within this class. * **USB Powered-B receptacle**: Another specific legacy type within this class, often associated with higher power delivery capabilities. ### Nomenclature and Aliases The receptacle is known by several names that reflect its technical specifications and versions. These aliases include **USB 3.0 Standard Type-B receptacle**, **USB 3.1 Standard Type-B receptacle**, and **SuperSpeed USB Standard Type-B receptacle**. It is also frequently referred to by its speed capabilities, such as **USB 5Gbps Standard Type-B receptacle** and **USB 10Gbps Standard Type-B receptacle**. ### Standards and Governance The specifications for this receptacle class are maintained by the **USB Implementers Forum**. Visual documentation and technical illustrations of the receptacles within this class are archived under the Wikimedia Commons category **USB 3 Standard Type-B receptacles**.