Usb Cables

[KARL]

I have seen USB adaptor cables, for example normal male to mini male advertised on eBay as being for specific use with named items, such as a camera, a GSP device, a mobile phone, each named as a distinct model. What baffles me is that the same seller will have separate postings dedicated to the model in question, always using the same photo and, apart from the device referred to, the same description. I have always been under the impression that these cables are always identical in the way they are wired for data transfer purposes and that they are in fact universal - particularly when all pins are wired up as opposed to perhaps leaving one or more out in very rare applications. What is the actual situation ?

[gingejbee]

Isn't it just a way for a seller to cover more bases...some people will like to know (before buying) that a cable will be suitable for specific items. Others (perhaps more clued up?) know that the "universal" cable does the job they want.

[ivor4781]

usb can have different size plugs, my camera /sat nav / and one of my mobile are all different sizes

[CrapAtCryptics]

More likely the multiple listings for different devices are there to score more hits from buyers. Other than lead quality ie gold plated etc or USB 2 or 3 compatibility they should all fit each other.

[bhg481]

I have one device which needs to use the lead which came with it (I can't remember which). I think, in general, people do a search for eg, USB lead for Canon camera, so it pays sellers to include the name of the device in their advert. It also helps clarify the situation when there are USB mini, USB micro, USB A etc available if the ad specifies it's the right one for a particular situation.

[mushroom25]

//USB cables are USB cables //
mmmm. maybe - but it's not as straightforward as that:-
https://www.cnet.com/news/usb-type-c-cable-problems/
last week one of our worker's LED head torches blew up while it was being charged; the expert who examined it said the cause was use of an incorrect USB cable.

[Old_Geezer]

Interesting. I just got a refund for a charger specified for a Google Pixel C tablet, that didn't work. The tablet would show charging for about a second, then not. I chose the charger BECAUSE it specified it was for that tablet. I specifically looked for that so there was NO CHANCE of frying the tablet. Maybe it too was miswired. Should be a criminal offence to mislead like that: hopefully it already is.