To a layman, when it comes to cables used in computers for storage, there are just way too many computer cables to keep track of without getting a bit confused in the end. There are several different parts in the computer system which are connected to the system. These different parts can be either directly plugged into the computer system motherboard or most of the time there is a requirement for some sort of storage cable to connect computer parts to the system. These computer parts might include but are not limited to hard drives, digital cameras, mice, keyboards, and other devices. In the market, there are different types of cables available like HDMI cable, VGA cable, DVI cable, Ethernet cable, USB cable, and computer power cord cable.
Which cable do you need? Is it a SATA cable, mini SAS cable, or IDE? Is your USB cable Type A, B, or C, and what do they all do? In the end, the best users do is take help from their tech-savvy mates or try to memorize as much as they can. The exercise can be futile unless you take the time to learn them all, or find a singular source of information that highlights the important points and gives in-depth information. Here is an overview of the most common computer cable types you will encounter when dealing with computer storage.
USB Cables
This is probably the most common and standard cable used to connect universal devices or any personal computers. As of today, every computer peripheral you think of has USB connectivity including, a keyboard, mouse, flash drives, headsets, wireless adapters, and so on.
From short-distance digital communication, transferring data to charging devices like smartphones, Bluetooth speakers, watches, and many more, directly connecting the two devices.
SATA Cables
Serial Advanced Technology or Serial ATA is a connector itself, that is used to connect devices in the computer bus connections in the storage application. These help to connect a range of devices, that includes hard drives, optical drives, and solid-state memory devices. These typically feature seven pins. Furthermore, in a storage assembly, one end of the cable will be connected to the hard drive while the other end is connected to the motherboard.
VGA Cables
Video Graphic Array is used to connect the monitor to the computer, which helps to transmit media from your computer to a VGA-enabled projection device, for instance, a TV or monitor. These have 15 pins in 3 rows of 5 each. Each row corresponds to a different channel.
mini-SAS Cables
There are several variables when choosing a mini-SAS connector or cables. For the functions to be carried out properly, it is important to choose the right assembly. These cables support both internal and external applications. In addition to being used as computer storage cables, mini-SAS cables are used in industries that require data management. The internal connections built through the cable can help to link server processors while external versions help to link storage disks or other devices.
HDMI Cables
High-definition Multimedia Interface cables have pretty much wiped the use of VGA and DVI cables. Since these can be used for transmitting both audio and video signals without compromising on the quality of images. Users can send clear images, unlike VGA and DVI that send the only video. The HDMI cable can be easily connected to connect cable boxes, TVs, DVD players, and other electronic devices. To add more, all types of AV devices can be connected to one standard HDMI cable capable to transmit both audio and video signals at the same point in time.
Ethernet Cables
Ethernet uses a bus or star topology and supports a data transfer rate of 10 Mbps which is used for a wired network. Switches, monitors, PCs, LAN, and much more can be easily connected with the help of an Ethernet cable. The quality of connection established using Ethernet cables is defined by the length and durability of the cable. These are plugged into the Ethernet port present on the motherboard.
