Snippet: Using the USB-C Port and Adapters on Your MacBook ☇

Apple has posted a rather exhaustive document highlighting USB-C’s role on the new MacBook. It’s fascinating some of the odd little nuances:

• You can also use the USB-C Charge Cable to transfer data between your MacBook and other USB-C devices at USB 2.0 speeds.
• Your MacBook will charge from USB-C power adapters not manufactured by Apple if they adhere to the USB Power Delivery specification.
• The USB-C to USB Adapter supports data transfer at up to 5 Gbps (USB 3.1 Gen 1). […] This adapter requires no power to operate. However, devices that you plug into it might draw power from your MacBook, so you should disconnect it when you’re not using it.
• This [Multiport] adapter will draw power from your MacBook even when the MacBook is asleep. Be sure to unplug the adapter to avoid draining your battery if your computer isn’t connected to AC power.
• These drives aren’t compatible with the Apple USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter or USB-C VGA Multiport Adapter: G-Tech G-DRIVE mobile USB 3.0 Hard Drive, Apple USB SuperDrive manufactured before Fall 2010. See Apple USB SuperDrive compatibility for more information.
• To enable Target Disk Mode, hold down the T button on your keyboard while starting your MacBook. Then connect the USB-C cable. Use a full-featured USB-C to USB-C cable to connect to another MacBook, or a full-featured USB-A to USB-C cable to connect to a Mac with standard USB-A ports.

It’s odd, a bit fussy for now, but will be simpler later on as more adapters and products come onto the market. If Macs are trucks, the MacBook is some sort of weird El Camino/Subaru Brat-type product. This is going to be fun to see this product mature.