May I assume that since the new iPad Pro uses a USB-C connector one can use any USB-C to USB cable for charging, etc? No special approved cable like the Lightning connector needed.
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USB-C cables
- Thread starter IBMJunkman
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Negative, Ghostrider.
https://gizmodo.com/a-google-engineer-is-publicly-shaming-crappy-usb-c-cabl-1742719818
https://gizmodo.com/a-google-engineer-is-publicly-shaming-crappy-usb-c-cabl-1742719818
cruisin
macrumors 6502a
You don't need an official Apple cable (finally!), but USB C is currently a mess where different types of USB C are treated mostly the same.
For example, not every cable can manage the 100W power delivery option used by laptops (or even the medium power levels like the 29W used by the iPad) as some are barely managing 10W. OnePlus infamously made their first USB C cable a basic USB 2 cable but with USB C plugs. One cable test by Google even destroyed the testing machine, the cable was that bad.
This doesn't even cover Thunderbolt 3 that uses USB C plugs. A situation where every Thunderbolt cable is also a USB C cable, but not the other way around.
Until the USB C situation settles down a bit try to use name brand cables. Not only will they be descent the boxes will say what the cables can do.
For example, not every cable can manage the 100W power delivery option used by laptops (or even the medium power levels like the 29W used by the iPad) as some are barely managing 10W. OnePlus infamously made their first USB C cable a basic USB 2 cable but with USB C plugs. One cable test by Google even destroyed the testing machine, the cable was that bad.
This doesn't even cover Thunderbolt 3 that uses USB C plugs. A situation where every Thunderbolt cable is also a USB C cable, but not the other way around.
Until the USB C situation settles down a bit try to use name brand cables. Not only will they be descent the boxes will say what the cables can do.
OK, how about buying the Apple USB-C to USB dongle then using a USB3 A to USB3 A cable plugged into it for charging?
cruisin
macrumors 6502a
It will work.
You can also get a USB A to USB C cable that does the same thing and you will skip having to deal with adapters. Anker is my go-to as they give warranty on their products.
Or you can just use the cable that came in the box and just get a extra for travel.
You can also get a USB A to USB C cable that does the same thing and you will skip having to deal with adapters. Anker is my go-to as they give warranty on their products.
Or you can just use the cable that came in the box and just get a extra for travel.
I know I can get a USB-C to USB A but the above messages had dire warnings. So I figured the Apple USB-C to USB A female is safe but short. And a USB3 A to USB3 A would be safe with the apple adapter.
I like 12+ foot cables.
I like 12+ foot cables.
TrueBlou
macrumors 601
The Apple route you’re talking about would of course work.
That there are a ridiculous amount of crappy USB-C cables is certainly true. It’s been true of all USB cables, USB-C just seems to be fairing worse from the low quality no-names than before.
But, stick to good cables and you won’t have a problem whoever you buy them from. Third party manufacturers such as Anker make quality cables, without the severe wallet dent.
But as with anything there’s a simple rule of thumb to go by. If a price looks too good to be true, it usually is, so avoid it.
That there are a ridiculous amount of crappy USB-C cables is certainly true. It’s been true of all USB cables, USB-C just seems to be fairing worse from the low quality no-names than before.
But, stick to good cables and you won’t have a problem whoever you buy them from. Third party manufacturers such as Anker make quality cables, without the severe wallet dent.
But as with anything there’s a simple rule of thumb to go by. If a price looks too good to be true, it usually is, so avoid it.
That will mean slow charging, ~10w max. You’ll need to stick with the Apple USB-C or equivalent USB-C to get fast charging.
I have heard the term fast charging and understand what it means but how does the cable allow or not allow the capability?
It can get a bit complex, but at a high level, the circuitry (e-marker) inside USB-C cables authenticate back to the charger to indicate how much voltage the cable can safely pass to the device. Some cables don't have e-markers, some are wired incorrectly internally (leaving devices prone to damage), etc. There are also distance limitations, and other technical requirements for a USB-C cable to be safe and certified by the USB org. Getting any random USB-C cable exposes you to a safety hazard and risk of damaging/destroying your new iPad, so I recommend doing more research before you buy.
Here's a more technical discussion: https://plus.google.com/+BensonLeung/posts/HBWyVBmdVzw