2.2.3 METHODS OF DATA TRANSMISSION
Topics from the Cambridge IGCSE (9-1) Computer Science 0984 syllabus 2023 - 2025
OBJECTIVES
​Understand the universal serial bus (USB) interface and explain how it is used to transmit data
ALSO IN THIS TOPIC
2.1.1 METHODS OF DATA TRANSMISSION
2.1.2 METHODS OF DATA TRANSMISSION
YOU ARE HERE | 2.1.3 METHODS OF DATA TRANSMISSION
2.2 METHODS OF ERROR DETECTION
2.3 ENCRYPTION
TOPIC 2 KEY TERMINOLOGY
TOPIC 2 ANSWERS
TOPIC 2 TEACHER RESOURCES (CIE)
UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS
The Universal Serial Bus (USB) is an industry standard for connecting devices to computers and other computing devices. It was developed to provide a standardized and efficient method of connecting a wide range of devices to a computer.

The USB interface provides a standardized way of transmitting data between devices, allowing different devices to communicate with each other and with a computer. When a USB device is connected to a computer, the computer recognizes the device and assigns it a unique address. The computer can then communicate with the device by sending and receiving data packets over the USB connection.

The data is transmitted in packets over the USB cable, with each packet consisting of a header, payload, and trailer. The header contains information about the type of data being transmitted, the length of the data, and the address of the device being communicated with. The payload contains the actual data being transmitted, while the trailer includes error detection and correction information.

In addition to data transmission, the USB interface also provides power to connected devices. This means that many devices, such as flash drives and smartphones, can be powered through the USB connection, eliminating the need for an external power source.

Overall, the USB interface provides a flexible and efficient method for connecting and communicating with a wide range of devices. It is widely used in personal computers, consumer electronics, and many other applications.

BENEFITS OF USB:
  1. Versatility: USB is widely used and supports a large range of devices, from mice and keyboards to external hard drives and smartphones.
  2. Convenience: USB devices can be easily connected and disconnected, without the need for tools or complicated setup procedures.
  3. Power supply: Many USB devices can be powered through the USB connection, eliminating the need for an external power source.
  4. Speed: USB provides high-speed data transfer rates, allowing for fast transfer of large amounts of data.
  5. Standardization: USB is an industry standard, which ensures compatibility between different devices and operating systems.
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DRAWBACKS OF USB
  1. Limited range: USB signals can only travel short distances, typically up to 5 meters.
  2. Limited power supply: Some USB devices may require more power than the USB connection can provide, requiring an external power source.
  3. Fragility: USB cables and connections can be easily damaged or broken, causing data transfer problems or complete failure of the device.
  4. Compatibility issues: Although USB is an industry standard, compatibility issues can still arise between different devices and operating systems.
  5. Security risks: USB devices can be a security risk, as they can easily transmit malware or viruses to a connected computer. To minimize this risk, it's important to use trusted devices and regularly scan for malware.
  1. What is the purpose of the Universal Serial Bus (USB) in computer systems?
  2. How does USB differ from other data transmission methods?
  3. What is the maximum distance that a USB connection can span?
  4. Can USB devices be powered through the USB connection? If so, what are the limits?
  5. What are some common security risks associated with using USB devices?
  6. How does USB ensure compatibility between different devices and operating systems?
ALSO IN THIS TOPIC
2.1.1 METHODS OF DATA TRANSMISSION | Data Packets
2.1.2 METHODS OF DATA TRANSMISSION | Serial, Parallel, Simplex, Duplex
2.1.3 METHODS OF DATA TRANSMISSION | The Universal Serial Bus
2.2 METHODS OF ERROR DETECTION | Parity Checks, Check Sum, Check Digit, ARQ
2.3 ENCRYPTION | Symmetric and Asymmetric Encryption
TOPIC 2 KEY TERMINOLOGY
TOPIC 2 ANSWERS
TOPIC 2 TEACHER RESOURCES (CIE)
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GCSE Computer Science, Cambridge GCSE Computer Science, Universal Serial Bus, USB, data transfer, computer peripherals, USB standards, USB connectors, plug-and-play, power supply, USB devices, data transmission, computer hardware, computer science concepts, communication protocols