2.3.4 Adapter Cables - Notes
When a cable cannot directly connect a PC port to a peripheral, you use an adapter cable. Adapter cables have different connector types on each end.
Types of Adapter Cables
| Type | How it works | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Active | Uses circuitry to convert the signal | Different protocols, such as digital HDMI to analog VGA |
| Passive | Only changes the connector shape, with no signal conversion | Same signaling standard, such as USB-C to USB-A |
Common Adapter Types
- Video adapters: HDMI to VGA, HDMI to DisplayPort, HDMI to DVI
- USB adapters: between USB connector types such as USB-C to USB-A
- USB hubs: one USB port in and multiple USB ports out
- USB-C to other outputs: USB-C to HDMI, USB-C to Lightning, and similar adapters
Key Thing to Remember
Digital-to-analog conversions, such as HDMI to VGA, always require an active adapter. A passive connector cannot do the conversion because the signal itself has to be changed.
Key Things to Remember
- Adapter cables connect devices with different connector types.
- Active adapters perform signal conversion.
- Passive adapters only change the connector shape.
- HDMI to VGA is a common example that requires an active adapter.