VBUS

VBUS refers to the 5-volt power supply and data bus found on USB (Universal Serial Bus) connectors and cables. It is a fundamental component of the USB standard, enabling devices to receive power and communicate with a host computer or other USB-enabled devices. The VBUS line carries a nominal voltage of 5 volts DC, which is sufficient to power a wide range of peripherals, from simple mice and keyboards to more power-hungry devices like external hard drives and smartphones.

In addition to power, VBUS also carries the data signals for USB communication. There are typically four wires in a standard USB cable: VBUS, D- (data minus), D+ (data plus), and GND (ground). The D- and D+ lines are used for differential signaling, which helps to reduce noise and allow for higher data transfer rates. The VBUS and GND lines provide the necessary power for the connected device.

The VBUS is designed to be a "hot-pluggable" interface, meaning devices can be connected and disconnected while the system is running without causing damage. The USB standard includes mechanisms for detecting device insertion and removal and for negotiating power requirements. Different USB versions, such as USB 2.0, USB 3.0, and USB-C, have evolved to offer higher power delivery capabilities and faster data transfer speeds, but the core concept of VBUS as the 5-volt power and data conduit remains.