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USB-C 3.0 Highspeed Hub with 2-ports

elessargr , 12-18-2024, 08:22 PM
Hello everyone,
I am new to the world of PCB so please bare with me if I ask any stupid questions.

I am working on a project that I would need to use a USB-C 3.0 (to the host/lapto) with two downstream USB ports. (one 3.0 and one 2.0).
Power would be provided to the PCB though the USB-C to the host.
I was able to find this https://www.ti.com/lit/ug/tidu428/tidu428.pdf?ts=1734553136810 but they utilizing USB-A connectors instead of USB-C.

The main question I have is,
If I have a USB-C 3.0 connection to the host do I need to use a USB MUX?
The USB-C cable should be able to operate when plugged-in to the PCB on both directions.
So if I loop the pairs together (like A2/B2, A3/B3, etc) this would not work and require a USB MUX as addition?

I can share the schematic I have already if needed.

Appreciate any help you guys can provide.
Thanks again!

ElessarGR
QDrives , 12-18-2024, 10:38 PM
First of: USB-C is the connector, USB 3.0, 3.1, etc. is the standard.

"*I would need to use a USB-C 3.0 (to the host/lapto) with two USB ports. (one 3.0 and one 2.0). *" -- Do you mean a hub with two downward ports?
"*The USB-C cable should be able to operate when planed to the PCB on both directions.*" -- "planed"?? You mean plugged-in?
https://www.edn.com/providing-usb-type-c-connectivity-what-you-need-to-know/
elessargr , 12-18-2024, 10:40 PM
hi QDrives!
Yes downwards ports (client).
https://www.lcsc.com/datasheet/lcsc_datasheet_2304140030_Texas-Instruments-TUSB8020BPHPR_C179675.pdf
elessargr , 12-18-2024, 10:41 PM
Ops sorry yes I meant plugged-in! Good catch let me correct it
elessargr , 12-18-2024, 10:51 PM
okay so from the edn article if I understand correct the USB MUX is not mandatory and it depends what the use case is every time.
Like in my case I dont look for DP or above classic/normal power transfer tot he downstream ports.
So even if USB MUX is not installed the USB-C cable regardless the orientation should work.
Am I correct?
QDrives , 12-18-2024, 10:59 PM
I have never done USB 3, C or other hubs.
All I know is that I often see a mux in the schematics as well. But this is mostly here and they have problems...
elessargr , 12-18-2024, 11:13 PM
Until now I have seen it one or two time on some schematics and because I am a newbie on this world hence why I ask. You guys definitely are more knowledgeable than me on the PCB and schematics!

Lets see if anyone else know about this 🙂
QDrives , 12-18-2024, 11:35 PM
Would it be a cost problem if you add the mux?
elessargr , 12-18-2024, 11:58 PM
I believe by slightly.
I have a prototype that for some reason doesnt work and try to understand if this is the issue.
Also if I add this USB MUX not sure how much space I would need since I try to compress the PCB as much as I can and if it would complicate more the design.
QDrives , 12-19-2024, 12:04 AM
Well... it makes it more complicated and it takes space.
Did you have a mux on the prototype?
The mux is needed to make the USB C connector work in both 'polarities'.
elessargr , 12-19-2024, 09:30 AM
No on the prototypes I haven't used a USB MUX. Currently it doesn't work in any orientation I place the cable in.
Tried a USB-C (host) to USB-C (PCB) and a USB-A (host) to USB-C (PCB).

So doing some research and reading online to see if I can figure it out. Hence why I thought that maybe someone from here would have the expirience with USB 3.0 highspeed and USB-C connector 🙂
QDrives , 12-19-2024, 08:04 PM
If your proto hub without mux is not working in any way, you better first find out why.
Adding a mux will only make things more complicated.
elessargr , 12-19-2024, 08:15 PM
My prototype does not have a mux.
QDrives , 12-19-2024, 08:21 PM
Sorry, meant to write "without mux".
elessargr , 12-19-2024, 08:54 PM
oh, yeah this is what I am trying to find out but I dont have the knowledge or expertise on this kind of subject 😅
elessargr , 12-19-2024, 09:24 PM
I think if I need a USB3 MUX it should be in the orange area.
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