The C2C caberQU is a compact USB-C cable tester board designed to validate USB-C to USB-C cables across a wide range of configurations and use cases.

This tool is particularly useful for IT professionals who need to verify cable quality beyond basic connectivity. It applies voltage to individual pins and detects continuity on the opposite end. With 25 LEDs, the board displays pin behavior across multiple modes, including USB 2.0/1.1, USB Power Delivery, USB 3.0/3.1/3.2, Alternate Mode, Debug Accessory Mode, and Audio Adapter Accessory Mode. A detailed manual is included to explain connectors, operating modes, and pin layouts.

Examples for IT managers:

1. USB cable verification — An IT manager dealing with a pile of USB-C cables can quickly test each one and identify its capabilities. This helps ensure the correct cables are used for specific devices, reducing performance issues and compatibility problems.
2. Hardware troubleshooting — In environments such as data centers or technical workspaces, cable faults can cause unpredictable behavior. Using the C2C caberQU board helps isolate issues like broken pins or incorrect wiring and reduces diagnostic time.
3. Inventory management — Managing stock of USB-C cables can be difficult due to inconsistent labeling. The C2C caberQU board allows verification of cable specifications before deployment, helping teams avoid purchasing or distributing unsuitable cables.

V1 vs. V3 — Which one to choose?

There are two versions of the C2C caberQU board available, V1 and V3, with minor differences:

• V1 includes a standard battery; V3 uses a higher-quality branded battery
• V3 supports use with a protective case
• V1 does not include hanging holes for storage
• V1 features slightly different printed graphics on the PCB

Functionally, both versions perform the same task. They include the same manual and provide identical LED behaviors for testing.

Why was this board created?

USB-C cables exist in many variations, which makes it difficult to determine what a specific cable actually supports. Using the wrong cable can result in slow data transfer, charging issues, or device incompatibility. USB-C also requires precise pin mapping, grounding, and resistor configurations, which increases complexity.

Why is this a better way to test cables?

Determining whether a cable supports a specific use case can be difficult without specialized tools. Broken pins make troubleshooting even harder because failures are inconsistent. The C2C caberQU simplifies this by visually displaying pin behavior. By flipping the USB-C connectors, corresponding LEDs illuminate according to USB-C specifications. The package includes the PCB, a CR2032 battery, and a detailed manual. The USB-C cable itself is not included.

No external power source is required. The included CR2032 battery powers the board when a cable is connected and should last for an extended period under normal use.

Please note that this product is considered a prototype, is not certified, and is intended primarily for development and testing purposes. Minor quirks or unexpected behavior are possible and are part of its experimental nature.

The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) was established in 1995 by companies including Intel and Microsoft to develop and promote USB standards. USB 3.0 (later branded as USB 3.1 Gen 1) was introduced in 2008 and increased data transfer speeds to up to 5 Gbps, while maintaining backward compatibility with USB 2.0 devices.

There is no affiliation or affiliate relationship with this product, but it can be sourced here: C2C caberQU USB-C cable tester, typically priced around $30 USD.