For decades, Canadian boardrooms, classrooms, and collaboration spaces have been defined by a tangle of cables, connectors, and adapters. HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, and proprietary connections have all competed for space in meeting rooms. However, the era of fragmented connectivity is coming to an end. USB-C is quickly becoming the backbone of AV technology, and it’s already changing how we wire and spec rooms.
At Century AV, we’re watching this connectivity shift unfold in real time. We’re helping organizations like yours stay ahead of the curve.
The Rise of USB-C in AV and What Makes USB-C Different?
First, let’s clarify what USB-C is: USB-C is a plug (or connector if you prefer). However, it can be confusing when we’re talking about data transfer and USB. So, let’s clear that up starting with data transfer via USB-C cable/plugs.
USB-C Data Transfer
- When USB-C is plugged into a USB 3.1 port: Data transfer rate up to 10 Gbps.
- When USB-C is plugged into a USB 3.2 port: Data transfer rate up to 20 Gbps.
USB-C Plug Form Factor
USB-C isn’t new—it’s been powering laptops and mobile devices for years. However, it has only recently gained traction in professional AV. Why? Because it delivers what every integrator and end-user wants:
- Full video, audio, data, and charging over a single cable. Note: not all equipment is setup for this expansion but the form factor is making its way into industry standards over time.
- High bandwidth for demanding applications.
- Universal compatibility across devices.
This combination eliminates the headaches of mismatched adapters and simplifies cabling for end-users.
The Evolution of USB Standards
To understand why USB-C is such a game-changer, it helps to look at how the technology has evolved:
- USB 1.0 & 2.0 – Early generations, mainly for keyboards, mice, and storage.
- USB 3.x – Increased speeds and more device compatibility. This iteration of USB brought faster transfer rates, but used the same USB plug we are all familiar with.
- USB-C (introduced in 2014) – Smaller, reversible connector capable of handling video, audio, data, and power. This change was the plug form-factor and did not necessarily change any data transfer rates but was the first step towards a universal plug form-factor standard.
- USB4 (2019 onward) – Another leap in transferring data, USB4 brings Thunderbolt 3 compatibility, 40Gbps speeds, and support for multiple simultaneous data protocols. USB4 runs exclusively over the USB-C connector type.
Where HDMI and DisplayPort were designed primarily for video, USB-C was built to handle everything. That’s why it’s quickly gaining traction not only in consumer electronics but also in enterprise AV environments.
USB-C
- What it is: A connector type (the physical plug and port shape).
- Key point: USB-C doesn’t define speed, power, or protocol—it just defines the shape and wiring of the port. A device with USB-C could support anything from USB 2.0 speeds all the way up to Thunderbolt 4, depending on the electronics behind it.
USB4
- What it is: A protocol/standard that defines how data is transferred.
- Key point: USB4 is based on Thunderbolt 3 technology and supports higher speeds (20–40 Gbps), dynamic bandwidth sharing between data and video, and backwards compatibility with USB 3.x and 2.0.
The Relationship
- You can think of USB-C as the doorway and USB4 as one of the possible “languages” spoken through that doorway.
- Not every USB-C port supports USB4. Some might only support USB 3.2 or even just USB 2.0.
- Conversely, USB4 requires USB-C as its connector type.
What Makes This Port Different?
USB-C is more than just another port. It’s a versatile standard that combines multiple functions into one sleek connector:
- High-definition video – Supports resolutions well beyond 4K.
- Crystal-clear audio – Single-cable AV delivery.
- Fast data transfer – Up to 40Gbps with USB4/Thunderbolt 4.
- Power delivery – Up to 100W to charge laptops and peripherals.
It means a single USB-C cable can replace the clutter of HDMI cables, power adapters, USB hubs, and network cables. For businesses, that simplicity translates into time saved, fewer IT tickets, and a more professional user experience. Of course, it only works as good as the port it plugs into, so the shift across all devices will take time, but the path has been set.
USB-C Plug and Cable Type vs. Legacy Connectors
Here’s how USB-C stacks up against the connectors it’s replacing:
| Connector | Video | Audio | Data Transfer | Power Delivery | Ease of Use |
| VGA | Analog only | No | No | No | Outdated, bulky |
| HDMI | Yes | Yes | Limited (CEC only) | No | Common but single-purpose |
| DisplayPort | Yes | Yes | Limited | No | Popular for PCs, less for laptops |
| USB-C | Yes (4K+ / 8K) | Yes | Up to 40Gbps | Up to 100W | One cable for all |
This table highlights why businesses are eager to make the switch. USB-C eliminates the need for multiple ports, ensuring devices can connect seamlessly.
The Challenge: An Industry in Transition
Despite its advantages, USB-C isn’t yet universal. Some manufacturers still rely on HDMI or DisplayPort as their primary output. Others add USB-C ports but fail to standardize power delivery or data support. For IT and AV teams, this means more complexity—not less.
That’s why a well-planned integration strategy is crucial.
The Global Push Toward USB-C
The move to port standardization isn’t just a trend—it’s being mandated in some regions. For example, the European Union has passed legislation requiring USB-C as the standard charging port for electronic devices by 2024. Major laptop and mobile manufacturers are following suit, meaning the average workplace will see more USB-C-only devices every year. (European Parliament News, 2022)
Research firm IDC projects that by 2026, over 80% of laptops shipped will rely primarily on USB-C ports. It means organizations that don’t prepare now will soon face compatibility issues as employees bring in new devices that can’t easily connect to outdated AV systems. (“USB-C – Embracing the New Standard”, 2024)
Of course, the path to universal adoption is never smooth. Right now, many organizations find themselves in hybrid environments:
- Some laptops have USB-C only.
- Others still rely on HDMI or proprietary docking stations.
- Meeting rooms may have legacy displays and switchers.
The result? Delays, confusion, and an increase in IT support requests. It is precisely the problem that Century AV helps solve with carefully designed USB-C integration strategies.
USB-C Solutions: Lightware Leading the Way
Image courtesy of Lightware, used with permission.
When it comes to USB-C solutions for enterprise AV, Lightware is at the forefront. At Century AV, we’re big believers in Lightware technology because it’s designed for the reality of today’s mixed environments while preparing organizations for the future.
Two standout solutions include:
- Taurus UCX – Perfect for modern meeting rooms. It’s a universal switcher that supports both USB-C and legacy connections, ensuring every user can plug in and collaborate without delays.
- UBEX – A powerful AV-over-IP solution that leverages USB-C for live-performance environments like video walls, auditoriums, or broadcast applications.
These products deliver on the promise of seamless, scalable, and future-ready connectivity. These products bridge today’s hybrid environments and tomorrow’s universal standard.
The Business Case for USB-C and USB4 Integration
Migrating to USB-C isn’t just about following a trend. The move to USB-C and USB4 standardization delivers measurable business benefits:
- Reduced Meeting Delays
- No more hunting for adapters. Meetings start on time, improving productivity.
- Lower IT Support Costs
- Fewer connection issues mean fewer service tickets and less downtime.
- Future-Proof Investments
- As more devices ship with USB-C, your infrastructure is ready to support them.
- Professional Image
- A clean, reliable AV setup reflects well on your organization in client-facing settings.
- Simplified Infrastructure
- Fewer cables, fewer devices, and fewer points of failure.
Why Work with Century AV?
The technology is powerful, but successful adoption requires more than just plugging in a new switcher. Century AV brings:
- Consultative expertise – We design solutions around your workflows, not just your hardware.
- Hands-on installation – Our team manages integration so your staff doesn’t have to.
- Trial opportunities – Through our Litewear Free Trial Program, you can test USB-C integration in your environment before committing.
- Long-term support – From maintenance to upgrades, we’re with you for the full lifecycle of your AV systems.
What Comes Next?
USB-C and USB4 are no longer the future—they are the present. With adoption accelerating worldwide and manufacturers standardizing their devices, businesses that delay the transition risk being left behind.
Century AV makes it simple with Lightware Taurus solutions and a risk-free trial program that lets you see the benefits firsthand.
👉 Book your free consultation today and start future-proofing your AV systems.
References
- Will. 2022. “Long-Awaited Common Charger for Mobile Devices Will Be a Reality in 2024 | News | European Parliament.” Europa.eu. October 4, 2022. https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20220930IPR41928/long-awaited-common-charger-for-mobile-devices-will-be-a-reality-in-2024.
- “USB-C – Embracing the New Standard.” 2024. JPL Telecom. December 2, 2024. https://www.jpltele.com/news/usb-c-embracing-the-new-standard/.
- “Effortless Meetings with Lightware USB-C Docking Station.” 2025. Lightware.com. 2025. https://www.lightware.com/en/product-family/taurus-smart-dock.
