Seeing a bunch of random cords all different sizes and shapes can be intimidating to anyone who does not have the knowledge of knowing which cord is which or better yet, what is used for what. Wouldn’t it be cool to distinguish different roles these connectors play in charging a phone, sharing data, or projecting an image onto something? This can prove as very handy information in our daily lives as we live in a world that is driven by technology.
Difference Between a Micro USB and a Micro HDMI
A micro USB is a miniaturized version of the Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface that has been developed for connecting compact and mobile devices like mp3 players, photo printers, GPS devices, smartphones, and digital cameras. Micro USB connectors come in three different forms. These forms are micro A, a micro B, and a micro USB 3. Whereas, a micro HDMI is a proprietary audio/video interface. It is used to transmit uncompressed video data and compressed and uncompressed digital audio data from an HDMI- compliant source device like a display controller, to a compatible computer monitor, digital audio device, video projector, or digital television. Therefore, the difference between a micro USB and micro HDMI is what they are used for. A micro USB is generally used to charge smartphones, tablets, and e-readers. When in fact, a micro HDMI is used to transmit quality audio and video off of a smaller portable device such as smartphones and smaller tablets.
What is a USB Type C and How Does it Compare to a Micro USB?
The difference between a USB type C and a Micro USB can be seen mainly because of the functionality as well as the physical construction of these connection cables. However, these physical constructions play a significantly smaller role in differentiating between the two. The physical construction is that the micro USB has hooks on one side and can only go into a device in a specific way. Whereas, a type C has no hooks and slightly bigger in size. This allows it to enter into the device through anyway it is put in. Type C uses technology to allow data to be transferred at speeds of 5 to 20Gbps. When it comes to charging, it can use as much as 100W of power. Type C is also designed in such a way that it is one-size-fits-all. This allows it to replace connector cables in game controllers, cameras, laptops, smartphones, or any other devices. Thus, making a USB type C the better option as compared to a micro USB.
How Do You Tell the Difference between a Micro, Mini and regular HDMI connectors?
A regular HDMI connector is commonly used on DVD players, computers, video games, televisions, and other electronic products. It is used to transmit excellent audio and digital data to any of the above-mentioned devices. HDMI has data error corrections that are then used to ensure you have the best audio and video quality available. Simply put, when you’re watching TV or a DVD, you will be doing so in clear view and sound. Just like you would if you were watching the person in front of you. HDMI replaced the outdated cables and antennas that gave you static and sound distortion. Mini HDMI cables are used on DSLR cameras standard-sized tablets. Similarly to the regular HDMI connector, the mini HDMI is expected to provide the same quality resolution in terms of video and audio. Mainly, the difference between the Mini and regular HDMI is the size of the connecting end of the HDMI cable. The Mini is easily used for smaller sized ports found on DSLR cameras, high-definition camcorders, and standard-sized tablets as well as other devices. A Micro HDMI is used on smaller portable devices like smartphones and smaller tablets. The same technology is used to deliver exceptional audio and visual quality, but just on a smaller device. This is extremely impressive. The following shows the physical differences between a Micro HDMI, Mini HDMI, and regular HDMI:
What are the Differences between a Mini USB, Micro USB, and a USB-C?
The Mini USB was introduced into the market in 2005. It was the first miniaturized form of USB and was used for a wide variety of devices such as mp3 players, digital cameras, and mobile phones like Blackberry, Motorola and HTC. It was liked for its convenient small size at around 3 x 7 mm. However, it was not quite as powerful as the original Type-A connector. Another advantage was that it could be plugged in and out 5 000 times without wearing down. The Micro USB was released 2 years later and improved on both functionality and convenience of the Mini USB. The Mini USB works as both a type-A and type-B connector which provides broader value. The Micro-USB is around 6.85 x 1.8 mm. Thus, making it smaller and more convenient. The Micro-USB also provides faster transfer rates. However, the USB-C and Micro-USB can be seen to the matchup. Both of the cables are equipped with the same connector on both sides of a cable. This means that you do not need to hassle with your cords anymore. The connector shapes look similar but, the USB-C is more oval and can be plugged in any direction. Type-C can practically replace a variety of connector cables like printer cables, laptop charging cables, digital camera cables, HDMI cables, smartphone charging cables, gaming console cables, and scanner fax cables. The following shows the physical differences between the Mini USB, Micro USB, USB type C, and another connector types:
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How does Thunderbolt compare to HDMI?
Thunderbolt is the latest peripheral connectivity and high-speed connection technology that supports both HD display and data on a single cable. It is the fastest connection type which is ideal for connecting an external display, monitor, or external hard drive to your computer. Like a USB, it is a plug and play. The Thunderbolt is significantly faster and provides more video bandwidth than an HDMI.
