# USB Full-Featured Type-C plug > the single plug that replaces all other USB plugs, supporting all USB versions and power levels (up to 240 W in either direction), Thunderbolt, and DisplayPort **Wikidata**: [Q134307518](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q134307518) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/usb-full-featured-type-c-plug ## Summary The USB Full-Featured Type-C plug is a 24-pin reversible connector designed to replace all other USB plugs by supporting all USB versions (1.0–3.2, USB4), power levels (up to 240W bidirectional), Thunderbolt (3 and 4), and DisplayPort. It unifies connectivity standards into a single, versatile interface. ## Key Facts - **Instance of**: USB Full-Featured Type-C connector and USB-C plug - **Official name**: USB Full-Featured Type-C plug (as per USB-IF guidelines) - **Pin count**: 24 pins, reversible design - **Power delivery**: Supports up to 240W in either direction (USB Power Delivery) - **Supported protocols**: USB 1.0–3.2, USB4 1.0, Thunderbolt 3/4, DisplayPort - **Replaces**: USB 3 plug and other legacy USB connectors - **Publication date**: First standardized in August 2014 - **Aliases**: Full-Featured USB-C plug, Full-Featured USB Type-C plug, etc. - **Schematics**: Available from USB-IF and Wikimedia Commons - **Different from**: USB 2 Type-C plug, Power-Only Type-C plug, and receptacles ## FAQs ### Q: What makes USB Type-C Full-Featured different from other USB plugs? A: It replaces all USB plugs by supporting all USB versions (1.0–3.2, USB4), bidirectional power (up to 240W), Thunderbolt, and DisplayPort in a single reversible 24-pin design. ### Q: Can a Full-Featured Type-C plug carry Thunderbolt data? A: Yes, it supports Thunderbolt 3 and 4, enabling high-speed data transfer and video output. ### Q: How does it differ from a Power-Only Type-C plug? A: Full-Featured Type-C plugs support data transfer (USB, Thunderbolt, DisplayPort) in addition to power delivery, whereas Power-Only plugs only provide power. ### Q: What is the maximum power output of a Full-Featured Type-C plug? A: It supports up to 240W of power delivery in either direction (host or device mode). ### Q: Is the Full-Featured Type-C plug reversible? A: Yes, its design allows insertion in either orientation, eliminating the need for orientation markers. ## Why It Matters The USB Full-Featured Type-C plug revolutionized connectivity by consolidating multiple standards into a single, reversible interface. It eliminated the need for separate USB, HDMI, and Thunderbolt cables, reducing clutter and simplifying device connections. Its bidirectional power delivery (up to 240W) supports fast charging and power sharing between devices, while its support for Thunderbolt and DisplayPort enables high-performance data transfer and video output. This standardization has streamlined electronics design, improved user experience, and accelerated the transition to universal connectivity. The plug’s widespread adoption has made it the de facto standard for modern devices, from smartphones to laptops and docking stations. ## Notable For - **Universal replacement**: Replaces all USB, HDMI, and Thunderbolt connectors. - **Bidirectional power**: Supports up to 240W in either direction (USB Power Delivery). - **Reversible design**: Eliminates orientation issues with a single plug. - **High-speed data**: Supports Thunderbolt 3/4 and DisplayPort for video and data. - **Standardization**: First standardized in 2014, unifying connectivity protocols. ## Body ### Design and Specifications The USB Full-Featured Type-C plug features a 24-pin reversible design, supporting all USB versions (1.0–3.2, USB4 1.0), Thunderbolt 3/4, and DisplayPort. It includes pins for power delivery (Vbus), data signaling (D+, D−), and auxiliary functions (SBU1, CC). ### Power Delivery The plug supports USB Power Delivery (USB PD), enabling bidirectional power transfer (up to 240W). This allows devices to charge or power other devices, such as laptops or external displays. ### Data Protocols It supports USB 1.0–3.2, USB4 1.0, Thunderbolt 3/4, and DisplayPort, making it compatible with a wide range of devices. The SBU1 pin enables Thunderbolt and DisplayPort functionality. ### Reversibility The plug’s reversible design allows insertion in either orientation, eliminating the need for orientation markers. This feature enhances user convenience and reduces cable damage. ### Standardization First standardized in August 2014, the USB Full-Featured Type-C plug was developed by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). It replaced legacy USB plugs (e.g., USB 3) and other connectors (e.g., HDMI, Thunderbolt). ### Compatibility The plug is compatible with USB Power Delivery, Thunderbolt, and DisplayPort, enabling high-speed data transfer and video output. It supports all USB versions, making it backward-compatible with older devices. ### Schematics and Pinout Detailed schematics and pinouts are available from the USB-IF and Wikimedia Commons, aiding in design and troubleshooting. The plug’s 24 pins include ground (GND), power (Vbus), data (D+, D−), and auxiliary signals (SBU1, CC). ### Aliases and Naming The plug is also referred to as Full-Featured USB-C plug, Full-Featured USB Type-C plug, and Type-C Full-Featured plug. The official name is USB Full-Featured Type-C plug, as per USB-IF guidelines. ### Differences from Other Plugs Unlike USB 2 Type-C plugs, Full-Featured Type-C plugs support higher data rates and bidirectional power. They differ from Power-Only Type-C plugs, which lack data transfer capabilities. The plug is also distinct from USB Full-Featured Type-C receptacles, which are used in devices rather than cables. ## References 1. [Source](https://www.usb.org/document-library/usb-type-cr-cable-and-connector-specification-release-24) 2. [Source](https://www.usb.org/sites/default/files/usb_type-c_language_product_and_packaging_guidelines_20230320.pdf) 3. [Source](https://www.usb.org/document-library/usb-32-revision-11-june-2022) 4. [Source](https://www.usb.org/sites/default/files/USB4%20Specification.zip) 5. [Source](https://www.usb.org/document-library/usb4r-specification-v20)