USB cables – also known as Universal Serial Bus cables – provide connection from computers and other host devices to peripherals, such as keyboards, printers, network adaptors and pointing devices. They are also used to provide electrical power to portable devices, such as mobile phones, portable media players, or handheld games consoles via a wall adaptor or computer. To find out more, please visit our ultimate guide to USB cables.USB cables have “A” plugs and “B” plugs, ensuring that only one side of the cable is connected to a power source, to prevent electrical overload. At RS Components, we have USB cables from many trusted brands, including Bulgin, Molex, Roline, StarTech, and our own RS PRO brand, among many others.What are USB Cables used for?USB cables are typical components used to operate a wide range of devices for personal and professional use. USB cables are also used as chargers for portable devices, transferring power to devices such as mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches, and other electrical products.USB extension cables are also available, providing a longer connection between PCs and satellite peripherals, such as printers and scanners that aren’t directly beside the PC unit. USB extension cables can also be useful when the back of a PC unit is inaccessible, allowing forward-facing USB ports on the front of the unit to be used. These extension cables are typically go from a male USB connector to a female USB connector.USB cable are commonly found in the digital and media industries for use in audio and video applications.USB Lead LengthsUSB cables come with various lead lengths from less than 30cm through to 15m and above.Types of USB ConnectorThere are a multitude of variations of USB connectors available, including: USB A, USB B, USB C, Mini USB A, Mini USB B, Micro USB A, Micro USB B, LightningTypes of USB CablesUSB to USB, RS232 to USB, DVI to USB, HDMI to USB, VGA to USB, Lightning to USBIP Ratings for USB CablesIP ratings describe how “waterproof” the cable is. If you are looking for a cable which is water resistant, a rating of around IP40 is suitable. If you require something which is waterproof, you should look at a higher number such as IP67 or IP68.