Below are a list of common data cables you will encounter.
For decades, this was the most common connector thought of whenever “USB” was mentioned. It is flat, totally rectangular, and can only be inserted one way into a USB-A port. It is still commonly used for peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and webcams.
This is used to connect USB peripherals. The B-style interface is squarish and has beveled corners on the top ends of the connector. Most commonly found with USB printers and USB hubs. Also known as a USB A to B cable, because the other cable end is a male USB-A plug.
The next generation of USB connectors has a flat, rounded symmetrical design and can be plugged into any USB-C port at either end. These are commonly used with modern cell phones, monitors, computer docks, and Mac/PCs. USB-C is capable of carrying video, data, and charge all in one connector.
A very common high-speed connector in the AV world. Found on almost every monitor, computer, or media device manufactured in the past few decades. It is flat and has an almost trapezoidal bevel.
Another common connector in the AV world is used primarily for monitors and media devices. Sometimes mistaken for USB-A due to its flat rectangular shape, but DP has small locking pins on top and a distinctive bevel on one side that sets it apart.
A video connector is commonly used with Macintosh computers.
More information
Please reach out to the Help Desk staff if you have any other questions about data cables.