USB stands for "Universal Serial Bus." It was created to make the connections between computers and outlying devices simpler. Since its development in the 1990s, it has become a household/office item because of its low cost of implementation, ease of use, and, most importantly, its compatibility with various platforms and operating systems. Very few computers nowadays are built without a USB port. It is the chosen interface for almost all office and home peripherals like modems, hard drives, speakers, cameras, etc. These cables were first introduced by tech companies to provide a uniform connection standard for transferring electricity and data. 

Now, there are several types of USB connectors:

• USB-A
• USB-B
• USB-C
• USB Micro-A
• USB Micro-B
• USB Mini-B (5-Pin)
• USB Mini-B (4-Pin)
• USB 3.0 A
• USB 3.0 B
• USB 3.0 Micro B
• USB-A to Micro-B
• USB Mini-B (FujiⓇ)

Let’s learn more about USB-A, USB Micro-A, USB Micro-B, and USB-A to Micro-B. 

• USB-A

USB-A is most commonly found on host computers. Almost all personal computers and laptops have one USB-A port, if not more. 

USB-A cables have a rectangular connector with an opening on one side and a plastic wedge on the other half. This allows you to connect one device. These cables have a flat, rectangular interface, which holds the connection in place using friction, making it easy for users to connect/disconnect. These cables use flat contacts instead of round pins, as they can put up with continuous attachment/removal. 

Now, let’s see micro USBs. The smallest type of USB cable is called a micro USB cable, which comes in two connection types. These come in handy when you cannot use Mini or standard USB connection ports. They provide the same performance as their standard-sized counterparts. 

• Micro-A USB

Micro-A USB cables differ from the standard USB connection and is most commonly seen in On the Go (OTG) devices. You do not require a computer to act as a mediator when you build a connection between two devices using a Micro-A USB cable. 

These cables come with a rectangular-sized female connector. Its identifying marks are a compact 5-pin design and a white receptacle. Micro-A USB cables are compatible with Micro-B USB tech.  

Micro-A USB connectors can be found on GPS units, digital cameras, and cell phones. These cables support a high-speed transfer rate of 480 Mbps. 

• Micro-B USB

Micro-B USB connectors can be found in smartphones and other small electronic devices. These cables are available with male and female connectors, making it easier for you to use devices with different connection types. Usually, female connectors can be found on smartphones, while the cable comes with a male connector. 

Micro-B USB connectors are half-hexagonal in shape because the connectors and ports have tapered edges. These cables consist of a black-colored receptacle and a portable 5-pin design. 

USB Type-A To Micro-USB

The USB-A cable’s other end is made up of a Micro-USB A or Micro-USB B connector and thus can accept either connection. This cable is designed exclusively for USB On-The-Go devices. These connectors are identified by their distinct gray-colored receptacle and compact 5-pin design. You won’t find this on any cable, as they only exist as a receptacle for On-The-Go devices. 

The items that can commonly use this cable are Bluetooth speakers, e-reader devices, small gadgets like reading lights, and so on. 

SF Cable stocks all kinds of USB cables, hubs, and couplers, so you can meet all your USB needs easily. Browse the eStore for all things cables, and contact us to know more.

Source: https://www.sfcable.com/blog/understanding-usb-a-and-micro-usb-conn...