Cables

Apple-specific cables are designed to transfer data, images, audio and video signals from one Apple device to another. There are also power cables and chargers that only fit Apple devices and possibly even selected generations of device, so always ensure you check compatibility.

These cables are designed for the specific ports of various generations of iPhone, iPads and Mac laptops. They feature USB, USB-C or Thunderbolt, Lightning or MagSafe connectors.

HDMI is one of the most popular standards for connecting displays to PCs and laptops along with consumer electronics such as TVs, projectors, Blu-ray players and receivers. Originating in 2002, since then it has evolved into various revisions, adding support for progressively higher resolutions, refresh rates and audio quality.

These adaptors convert HDMI connections into other types of digital interface such as DisplayPort, DVI and USB.

USB cables transfer data such as text, images, AV signals from one device to another. They may either have the same connectors at each end or convert between different types of port. Originating in 1996, since then USB has evolved into various revisions, adding support for progressively higher transfer rates.

These USB 4.0 cables support throughput at up to 40Gbps using the USB-C connector.

Ethernet network cables featuring RJ45 connectors are compatible with all common network enabled devices such as as PCs, workstations, servers, network switches and routers to create networks. Originating in 1980, since then Ethernet has evolved into various revisions, adding support for progressively higher transfer rates.

CAT-6A cables can support up to 10GB/s throughput at 500MHz over a maximum distance of 100m.

Extension leads offer the flexibility of longer length cords or multiple sockets, or both. More importantly many contain surge protection technology to guard against power spikes that may damage connected devices.

PDUs or power distribution units are designed for rack environments where many devices are connected to a centralised power source protected by a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) and cable management is essential.

USB is the most common bus used to connect a huge variety of external devices to PCs, laptops and servers. It is not only used by peripherals such as keyboards and mice, but also storage devices such as external drives, smartphone and tablets and more.

These mains sockets feature USB ports - either USB-A, USB-C or a combination of both, enabling you to easily charge multiple devices such as smartphones and tablets at once.