USB Logo

USB LogoUSB Logo PNG

The USB logo is strong and dynamic. It seems to pull and indicate the port where the power cord should be inserted. The schematic representation has made the symbol an understandable instruction.

USB: Brand overview

Founded:1996
Founder:USB-IF
Headquarters:
Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.

USB is the abbreviated name of the computer connector, meaning Universal Serial Bus. Its development and improvement belong to the USB Implementers Forum (USB IF) – a non-profit organization founded by IT giants like Intel and Microsoft. In 2020, 20 billion devices with these connectors were sold.

Meaning and History

USB Logo History

The logo of the most famous universal connector in the world was created in 1995 by USB IF, which was founded to promote, develop, and increase the recognition of the port. The intended symbol was to reflect the simplicity and universality of the technology. The resulting emblem remains constant despite the emergence of various standard variations. It is easily memorable and understandable in any language, which is important since USB is used worldwide.

What is USB?

Modern technology for connecting power and devices to gadgets using a universal connector. Introduced in 1995, it simplified working with computers, tablets, phones, and laptops thanks to cooperation between manufacturing companies in adopting a single standard for connectors.

1996 – today

The emblem has no inscription, but it features three lines branching out from a single point. They are a symbol of data transfer. The number three signifies the three possible types of connection for which the connector is applicable. At the end of each line, there is a symbol of the connected device.

  • The circle represents peripheral data input devices that consume little energy and are powered exclusively by the computer, so their line is the shortest. This includes a mouse or keyboard.
  • The arrow symbolizes electrical output or input devices like a scanner or printer.
  • The square symbolizes data exchange devices capable of receiving and transmitting information. The most well-known in this segment is the flash drive.

The point from which the lines originate represents the USB connector. Thanks to a uniform standard, various types of devices can be connected to the computer. Today, it is the most common type of connector, and a single point conveys its uniqueness, exclusivity, and demand. Although more advanced systems have already been developed, USB will continue to prevail in the market for many years.

The gradual branching of lines from a single trunk conveys the idea of a serial bus, along which information is transmitted in pulses one after another along a single path. It also indicates the merging of numerous existing types of connections into one, demonstrating the universality of the technology.

The three lines may also refer to the three port variants: Type-A, Type-B, and Type-C, differing in the number of pins, shape, and data transfer speed. The square may represent Type A (rectangular), the arrow Type B (beveled), and the circle Type C (oval).

Interestingly, the logo was designed to resemble the trident of the water god Neptune, which symbolizes power and authority.

Font and Colors

The color of the image is black. However, on most devices, it is an embossed print of the same color as the cord material. The dark shade signifies the global spread of technology and its predominance over all others. It matches the color of cables and buses.

USB color codes

BlackHex color:#000000
RGB:0 0 0
CMYK:0 0 0 100
Pantone:PMS Process Black C