Take Control of Untangling Connections, 2nd Edition

Link Devices with Cables

Some of the key questions you’ll have about any cable and adapter are:

• What standard(s) does it support?

• What’s the highest throughput I can pass across it, and between which devices can I achieve that?

• What’s the highest wattage power that will pass across it, if it’s a cable that can pass power? (Most can!)

Or, more simply, the plaintive cry I hear all too often: How do I figure out what cable I have?! This section will help.

Note: Adapters are easier, as they are sold to meet specific needs. They’re typically better labeled, too.

The good news is that a truly universal cable has arrived for modern devices: a combination Thunderbolt 4/USB4 cable works with all USB-C connected standards, and the price of new cables ...