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Showing posts from July, 2025

Cat8 vs Fiber Optic: Which Cable is Better?

  In the ever – evolving world of networking, choosing between   Cat8   and   Fiber Optic cables   can be a tough call. Let’s break down their key differences to help you decide which is better for your needs.   Speed and Bandwidth Cat8 Cat8 Ethernet cables  are designed for high – speed data transfer. They can support speeds of up to 40 Gbps. However, this top speed is only achievable over relatively short distances, typically around 30 meters. It’s a great option for high – speed local area  networks (LANs)  in places like small data centers or large office floors. Fiber Optic Fiber optic cables , especially  single – mode fibers , are in a league of their own when it comes to speed. Single – mode fiber can handle speeds of 100 Gbps or more over distances of 10 kilometers and beyond. Multi – mode fiber, while not as good for long distances (topping out at around 550 meters for some high – speed applications), can still support speeds o...

USB A vs B vs C: How to Pick the Right Connector

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  In the world of electronics,   USB   connectors are everywhere. But with the variety of options like USB A, B, and C, how do you choose the right one? Let’s break it down. USB A Shape and Size :  USB A  is the rectangular – shaped connector we’ve all seen. It’s relatively large compared to newer options. You’ll find it on most older computers, laptops, and common peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and  printers . The size and non – reversible design mean you need to be careful about which way you insert it. Data Transfer Speeds : It supports USB 2.0, offering data transfer speeds of up to 480 Mbps. This is sufficient for basic tasks like transferring files or connecting a mouse. However, for high – resolution video streaming or fast data backup, it falls short. Some USB A connectors also support  USB 3.0 , which can reach speeds of up to 5 Gbps.   USB B Shape and Size :  USB B  connectors have a square shape with beveled corners. The...

USB4: The Complete Guide [2025]

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  Introduction USB4  is the latest iteration of the Universal Serial Bus (USB) standard, bringing significant improvements in data transfer speeds, compatibility, and functionality. In this guide, we’ll explore the key features of USB4, how it compares to previous standards, and its applications in various devices.   Key Features of USB4 1. High Data Transfer Speeds USB4  supports data transfer rates of up to 40 Gbps, which is a significant upgrade from previous  USB standards . This high speed enables faster data transfer for applications such as external storage devices, high-resolution displays, and high-performance computing. Standard Maximum Data Transfer Rate USB 2.0 480 Mbps USB 3.0 5 Gbps USB 3.1 10 Gbps USB 3.2 20 Gbps USB4 40 Gbps 2. Compatibility USB4 is backward compatible with previous USB standards, including  USB 2.0 ,  USB 3.0 , and  USB 3.2 . This means that you can use your existing USB devices with USB4 ports, although you may n...

HDMI ARC vs Optical: What are the Differences?

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  In the past, a coaxial cable was used to transmit audio and video. But then it was gradually replaced by HDMI and digital optical. It is known that the quality of audio can largely affect your experience. With the birth of HDMI ARC, you may struggle to choose HDMI ARC or digital optical. To better understand the differences between   HDMI ARC   and   digital optical , you need to dive into our article.   What is HDMI ARC? HDMI ARC means Audio Return Channel, first introduced in  HDMI 1.4 standard.  Before the introduction of HDMI 1.4, the HDMI port only allows for one-direction transmission from source equipment to displays. HDMI ARC allows for bi-directional transmission, so you never need an extra audio cable. Audio and video signals are transmitted from the source device to the display, then the audio signal will be transmitted by HDMI ARC back to the A/V receiver. For example, if you use the  standard HDMI cable , you need to use one HDMI ca...

Is Thunderbolt 5 Backward Compatible? What You Need to Know

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  In September 2023, Intel announced Thunderbolt 5, a new high – speed interface standard that has tech enthusiasts buzzing. One of the most pressing questions on everyone’s mind is: is Thunderbolt 5 backward compatible? The short answer is a resounding yes, and here’s what you need to know. Compatibility with Previous Thunderbolt Versions Thunderbolt 5 is compliant with the USB4 V2 standard, which is great news for existing Thunderbolt users. This compliance allows it to be backward compatible with earlier versions of Thunderbolt, namely Thunderbolt 3 and  Thunderbolt 4 . For example, if you have an external hard drive with a Thunderbolt 3 connection, you can easily plug it into a Thunderbolt 5 port on your new computer. However, it’s important to note that the data transfer rate will be limited to the capabilities of the Thunderbolt 3 device. Thunderbolt 3 typically has a maximum data transfer rate of 40 Gbps, so when connected to a Thunderbolt 5 port, the transfer speed wil...

What is DisplayPort 1.4?

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  For years,  DisplayPort  has been the preferred high-end data and audio connection for gamers and workers running monitors at resolutions and high refresh rates, like 4K at 144Hz. With a higher data rate than   HDMI 2.0 , it’s been far better at handling more complicated data streams, and that remains the case in 2022.   HDMI 2.1   might be able to compete, but supporting devices are still hard to come by since they are limited to high-end GPUs and displays. There is a new DisplayPort standard in the works too –  DisplayPort 2.0  – but aside from that,  DisplayPort 1.4  is the best you can get. Though years old, it still boasts top features and specs among connectors.Only the supremely modern alternatives can stand up to it and even hope to compete. What is DisplayPort 1.4? DisplayPort 1.4  is a digital display interface developed by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA). The DisplayPort 1.4 standard was...