USB-IF Completes Media Agnostic USB Specification

New specification allows wireless devices and docking stations to communicate over the USB protocol without a physical USB connection

BEAVERTON, Ore. – March 18, 2014 – Today the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) announced the completion of the Media Agnostic (MA) USB v1.0 specification. This specification is now available for download on the USB-IF website.

The MA-USB specification is designed to enable devices to achieve wireless gigabit transfer rates while leveraging existing USB infrastructure. The specification allows wireless devices and docking stations to communicate over the USB protocol, without the need for a physical USB connection. MA-USB supports multiple media types, including Wi-Fi® operating in 2.4 and 5 Ghz; WiGig operating in 60Ghz; WiMedia UWB radios operating between 3.1-10.6Ghz, and other existing or new wired or wireless media types that want to use the USB protocol as the transport. MA-USB is compliant with SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.1 and USB 3.0) and Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0).

The USB-IF utilized the WiGig® Serial Extension (WSE) v1.2 specification from Wi-Fi Alliance® as the initial foundation for the MA-USB specification. Products that incorporate MA-USB as an underlying ingredient technology can identify MA-USB support with the USB-IF’s ingredient brand “Powered by MA-USB™.” Use of the ingredient brand will require that products pass the USB-IF certification program for MA-USB. Products that are “Powered by MA-USB™” give consumers more flexibility to wirelessly connect their USB-enabled devices.

“We share a commitment with the USB-IF to enhance wireless connectivity,” said Edgar Figueroa, president and CEO of Wi-Fi Alliance. “The completion of MA-USB supports our efforts to deliver wireless data, display and audio applications, all while providing the best user experience.”

The MA-USB v1.0 specification along with the MA-USB Adopters agreement is now available on the USB-IF website. Visit the USB-IF website for more information.

About the USB-IF

The non-profit USB Implementers Forum, Inc. was formed to provide a support organization and forum for the advancement and adoption of USB technology. The USB-IF facilitates the development of high-quality compatible USB devices through its logo and compliance program, and promotes the benefits of USB and the quality of products that have passed compliance testing. Further information, including postings of the most recent product and technology announcements, is available by visiting the USB-IF website at www.usb.org.

About Wi-Fi Alliance®

Wi-Fi Alliance® is a global non-profit industry association – our members are the worldwide network of companies that brings you Wi-Fi®. The members of our collaboration forum come from across the Wi-Fi ecosystem and share a vision of seamless connectivity. Since 2000, the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ seal of approval designates products with proven interoperability, industry-standard security protections, and the latest technology. Wi-Fi Alliance has certified more than 18,000 products, delivering the best user experience and encouraging the expanded use of Wi-Fi products and services in new and established markets. Today, billions of Wi-Fi products c arry a significant portion of the world’s data traffic in an ever-expanding variety of applications. www.wi-fi.org