What is the maximum data transfer rate of USB 2.0?

The maximum data transfer rate of USB 2.0 is accurately identified as 480 megabits per second. This specification indicates the upper limit of data that can be transmitted through a USB 2.0 connection, allowing for rapid data transfer between devices such as external hard drives, flash drives, and peripherals.

USB 2.0, also known as High-Speed USB, was a substantial improvement over its predecessor USB 1.1, which had a maximum data transfer rate of 12 megabits per second. The advancement to 480 megabits per second significantly enhanced the performance and usability of USB-connected devices during its time and remains relevant for many applications today.

In contrast, the other options present speed ratings associated with different USB standards or are inaccurately low. For example, 5 gigabits per second is recognized as the maximum speed for USB 3.0, while 1.5 gigabits per second corresponds to USB 1.1's low-speed mode. Lastly, 10 megabits per second is not a standard speed for USB technology. Understanding these values helps to distinguish the capabilities of different USB versions effectively.