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What is a Sync Cable?

Daniel Liden
Daniel Liden

A sync cable is a cable used to synchronize data contained on two devices. Usually, one of the devices is a laptop or desktop computer and the other is some kind of small mobile device, such as an MP3 player, cell phone, or personal digital assistant (PDA). It is easier to store and organize large amounts of information on a computer than on a small mobile device. As such, it is usually necessary to synchronize the stored and organized information with a cable. Often, that is the only method of information input for portable devices.

Universal serial bus (USB) cables are the most commonly used cables for synchronization. USB ports and cables are used to carry information and energy to and from a great variety of devices; most modern computer peripherals and mobile devices connect to a computer with this type of cable. Because almost all modern computers have USB ports, it is very common for a mobile device to use a USB sync cable. In many cases, the cables used for various devices are actually interchangeable as the same kinds of ports exist both on the device and on the computer.

A sync cable is used to connect a portable device to a computer, in order to transfer or backup data.
A sync cable is used to connect a portable device to a computer, in order to transfer or backup data.

In most cases, a device's sync cable can also be used to charge the device. Mobile devices tend to be battery powered because it is inconvenient to plug them into an outlet, and it makes them less mobile. It is convenient to charge them while they are synchronizing with the computer, so these cables are designed to accomplish both tasks at the same time. Charging, though, takes significantly longer than synchronizing does, so it is usually necessary to keep the mobile device plugged into the computer for some time after all of the data has been synchronized. Usually, the maker of the mobile device or other third party will produce an attachment for the cable that allows the user to plug it directly into the wall.

External hard drives connect directly to computers with a sync cable, usually through a USB port.
External hard drives connect directly to computers with a sync cable, usually through a USB port.

This type of cable can come in a variety of different forms. Some are of very high quality and are quite durable, but tend to be relatively expensive, while others are very cheap and thin but often do not last very long. There are cables that are made to be particularly portable, such as the retractable variety, in which the cable is usually stored rolled up but can be unwound and retracted when needed. Some mobile devices now support wireless synchronization, which may eventually replace sync cables.

Discussion Comments

Monika

@sunnyskys- I firmly believe that one day soon most devices will be built to sync wirelessly. It seems like the logical next step in technology development. I think as more devices have this capability it will eliminate the need for things like USB to AV cables and the dreaded brand specific syncing cables.

However I've never heard of any device that can charge wirelessly so maybe those brand specific cables won't completely go away. What would be nice is a truly "universal" cable that worked with all portable devices.

sunnySkys

@Azuza- You're right, those Apple sync cables sure are annoying. I wish I could use a regular USB cable to charge and sync my iPad. I'm constantly losing my Apple sync cable. I think I've bought at least three replacements since I purchased my iPad.

However Apple isn't the only company that requires their devices to sync using a specific cable. Microsoft requires specific cables for a lot of their devices as well. Off the top of my head I know my Zune requires it's own special Zune sync cable. (Yes I own an iPad from Apple and a Zune from Microsoft. I know that's practically sacrilege in the tech world!)

Azuza

I think it's so great USB cables can be used to sync so many different devices. I guess that's why they are called "universal".

I remember when almost every cell phone had a different type of charger, even phones from the same brand. These days most phones use a USB charger and getting another one is pretty inexpensive. My personal favorite is the dual USB charger which you can use to plug 2 separate devices into one USB port.

Now if only all the "i" devices didn't require a different kind of sync cable everything would be great!

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    • A sync cable is used to connect a portable device to a computer, in order to transfer or backup data.
      By: Maxim Tupikov
      A sync cable is used to connect a portable device to a computer, in order to transfer or backup data.
    • External hard drives connect directly to computers with a sync cable, usually through a USB port.
      External hard drives connect directly to computers with a sync cable, usually through a USB port.
    • A USB cord is required to connect an iPod to a computer.
      By: sixdun
      A USB cord is required to connect an iPod to a computer.
    • Some new devices rely on USB 3.0 sync cables for fast transfers of information.
      By: Shawn Hempel
      Some new devices rely on USB 3.0 sync cables for fast transfers of information.