USB-A
USB Type A is the most common USB connector. This flat, rectangular connector is often found on computers, chargers, and many cables. USB-A is used to connect devices such as keyboards, mice, and external hard drives to host devices. The connector is held in place by friction and is durable enough for continuous connection, but still easy to disconnect and reconnect. USB-A connectors also come in micro variants for smaller devices.
USB-B
USB Type B is traditionally used for printer cables but has become more common for other devices like mobile printers and external hard drives. The square connector comes in variants like USB Micro-B, USB Mini-B (5-pin), and USB Mini-B (4-pin). With the advent of wireless printing, the use of USB Type B has decreased slightly, but it remains an important connector for many older devices.
USB Micro-B
Micro USB is a smaller version of the USB interface, developed to connect compact and mobile devices like smartphones, MP3 players, GPS devices, and digital cameras. Micro USB connectors come in three forms: Micro A, Micro B, and Micro USB 3. Micro USB 3 resembles Micro B but has an extra pin group to enable higher transfer speeds.
USB Mini-B
Mini USB was introduced with USB 2.0 and is used for smaller devices like digital cameras and older smartphones. Although they are smaller than standard USB connectors, Mini-USB offers similar performance and is plug-and-play compatible.
USB-C
USB Type C is the latest USB connector, designed to replace older USB connectors. It has a reversible, symmetrical interface and is both thinner and more versatile. USB-C supports faster data transfers and can handle higher power outputs to charge devices faster. Its universal design allows it to be used for a variety of devices, reducing the need for multiple cable types.
HDMI-A
HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface and is used to transmit audio and video data in a single cable. HDMI-A is the original connector and is used in devices like TVs, audio receivers, DVD and Blu-ray players, and game consoles. The connector measures 13.9 mm × 4.45 mm and offers high-quality signal transmission.
HDMI-D Micro
HDMI D Micro is a smaller HDMI connector used to connect small, portable devices like GoPro cameras and smartphones. This connector offers HDMI Ethernet Channel technology, which combines video, audio, and data streams into a single cable. HDMI D Micro measures 6.4 mm x 2.8 mm.
HDMI-C Mini
HDMI C-Mini is often used in handheld devices like DSLR cameras and camcorders. This Type C connector is compatible with the HDMI 1.4 specification and is significantly smaller than the standard HDMI Type A connector, but has the same 19-pin configuration. HDMI C-Mini measures 10.42 mm x 2.42 mm.
Lightning
Lightning is an 8-pin connector developed by Apple to replace the older 30-pin dock connector. The Lightning connector can be inserted either way and is used to connect Apple devices like iPhones and iPads to chargers and other accessories. Lightning can be converted with adapters to support other interfaces like USB, HDMI, and SD cards.
DisplayPort
DisplayPort, or DP, is a digital audio and video interface created by VESA. It comes in standard and Mini DisplayPort variants. DisplayPort offers high bandwidth and can handle higher refresh rates than HDMI, making it ideal for high-resolution displays and professional applications. DisplayPort cables can easily be converted to HDMI using adapters.
DVI
DVI (Digital Visual Interface) is a video interface used to transmit digital video content to displays and projectors. DVI comes in three variants: DVI-A (analog only), DVI-D (digital only), and DVI-I (both digital and analog). Although HDMI has become more common, DVI is still used for many computer monitors and some TVs.
VGA
VGA (Video Graphics Array) is an older standard for connecting video devices like monitors and projectors. VGA cables have 15-pin connectors and are still used today, although they are quickly being replaced by newer interfaces like DVI and HDMI. VGA transmits only video signals and is often used with older equipment.
FireWire
FireWire is a plug-and-play connection that automatically detects connected devices and assigns them an address. FireWire devices are hot-pluggable, meaning they can be connected and disconnected while the computer is on. FireWire is often used to connect external hard drives, camcorders, and other high-speed devices.
SATA
SATA (Serial ATA) is used to connect storage devices like hard drives and SSDs
to the motherboard. SATA has replaced the older PATA interface and offers faster data transfer speeds. Nearly all modern computers use SATA for internal storage.
Molex
Molex connectors are used to connect DC power to various devices in a computer, such as hard drives and optical drives. Molex was one of the first manufacturers of these connectors, and their name has become synonymous with this type of connection, although they are made by many companies today.
LAN
LAN connectors are used to connect computers to local networks. There are various types of LAN cables and adapters that enable connection to network equipment like routers, switches, and modems.
For more information about different adapters and to find the right product, visit our category list on the main page. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact customer service for help.