Intel announce Thunderbolt 3 technology
This week, Intel has unveiled ThunderboltTM 3 connectivity that can help professionals create a 4K workspace. Thunderbolt is the new connectivity solution that, along with USB Type-C is set to take over PC connectivity. Thunderbolt™ 3 is the fastest and most versatile connectivity solution as peripherals, displays and docks can be connected using Thunderbolt (and smartphones too). Users can connect to two 4K resolution displays using Thunderbolt 3, can transfer up to 100W power.
Thunderbolt 3 can work in tandem with USB-C and a Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C connection can attain 40Gbps speed. Thunderbolt ports are reversible, fast, can supply power apart from allowing I/O. The 40Gbps speed is double that of USB 3.1 and DisplayPort 1.2 speeds.
“Thunderbolt™ 3 is computer port nirvana – delivering two 4K displays, fast data, and quick notebook charging”, said Navin Shenoy, vice president in Client Computing Group and general manager of Mobility Client Platforms at Intel Corporation. “It fulfills the promise of USB-C for single-cable docking and so much more. OEMs and device developers are going to love it.”
Technology Features
- Thunderbolt™, USB, DisplayPort, and power on USB-C
- USB-C connector and cables (small, reversible)
- 40 Gbps Thunderbolt™ 3 – double the speed of Thunderbolt 2
- Bi-directional, dual-protocol (PCI Express and DisplayPort)
- 4 lanes of PCI Express Gen 3
- 8 lanes of DisplayPort 1.2 (HBR2 and MST)
- Supports two 4K displays (4096 x 2160 30bpp @ 60 Hz)
- USB 3.1 (10 Gbps) – compatible with existing USB devices and cables
- DisplayPort 1.2 – compatible with existing DisplayPort displays, devices, and cables
- Connect DVI, HDMI, and VGA displays via adapters
- Power (based on USB power delivery)
- Up to 100W system charging
- 15W to bus-powered devices
- Thunderbolt™ Networking
- 10Gb Ethernet connection between computers
- Daisy chaining (up to six devices)
- Lowest latency for PCI Express audio recording
