🔌 USB, HDMI, Ethernet: understanding the main computer connectors

In everyday digital life, cables and connectors are used regularly without always knowing what they are really for. Yet these elements are essential for connecting devices, transferring data, or accessing the Internet. In this new article in the IT Concepts section, three essential connectors are introduced: USB, HDMI and Ethernet.

🔵 USB: the most versatile connector

USB (Universal Serial Bus) is probably the most widely used connector in the world.

It is used to:

• transfer files;
• connect peripherals;
• charge electronic devices.

Some examples:

📱 Charging a smartphone

⌨️ Plugging in a keyboard or mouse

💾 Connecting a USB flash drive

🖨️ Connecting a printer to a computer

Today, several versions exist:

• USB-A (the classic format)
• USB-B (often used on printers)
• USB-C (the newest, the most widespread and the one used in the EU)

💡 Key point: USB is mainly used to carry data and electricity.

🖥️ HDMI: for image and sound

HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) is used to transmit high-quality digital image and sound.

It is commonly found between:

• a computer and a monitor;
• a games console and a television;
• a TV set-top box and a television.

Some examples: