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HARDWARE ARCHIVES // INTERCONNECT

[ SUBCATEGORY DIRECTORY // 7 LEAF LISTINGS // 138 PART RECORDS ]

Browse cables subcategories

Each dedicated leaf listing links to its individually documented cable and adapter records.

[ COMPONENT RECORD // CABLES & ADAPTERS ]

Cables &
adapters.

Cables and adapters carry power, data, video, audio, and control signals. Connector shape is only one clue: pinout, direction, protocol, version, wire gauge, shielding, and active electronics determine whether a connection is safe and functional.

Original schematic illustration of cable connector types
SCHEMATIC // CONNECTORS NOT TO SCALE

CLASS RECORD: computer internal and external cabling. Never assume two visually similar or physically fitting power cables share a pinout.

Reference specifications

PowerATX/EPS, PCIe GPU, SATA power, Molex, barrel, USB-C PD, and proprietary laptop connectors. Voltage, current, polarity, and wire gauge must match.
DataSATA, USB, Thunderbolt, Ethernet, legacy ribbon cables, and proprietary headers use different protocols and electrical limits.
DisplayHDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, VGA, and USB-C modes differ in directionality, bandwidth, audio, adapters, and supported features.
ConstructionLength, shielding, conductor gauge, bend radius, active retimers, certification, and cable quality influence reliability and supported rate.

Safe selection

  • Use the PSU manufacturer's exact-model cable compatibility chart; never reuse a modular cable from another PSU without verified pinout identity.
  • Check adapter direction (for example, source-to-display is not necessarily reversible), supported signal modes, and power-delivery rating.
  • Inspect for bent contacts, melted housings, cracked insulation, fraying, and excessive connector tension.
  • For high-speed or high-current service, use certified products and follow official bend-radius, installation, and current limits.
  • Photograph both ends and document pinout, wire colors, shield/drain, cable part number, length, and tested function.

Sources & further reading

  1. USB-IF — USB specifications and USB Type-C documentsPrimary standard references for USB connectors, data, and power.
  2. HDMI Licensing Administrator — HDMI specificationsOfficial technology and capability reference.
  3. VESA — DisplayPortDisplay interface information; check exact cable and device capabilities.