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I always assumed a USB cable between two devices is just a collection of wires. I recently saw some pictures when shopping for cables indicating they have internal circuitry.

Could someone clarify if USB3.0 cables are only wiring or is there an active device within the A end?

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  • \$\begingroup\$ Which kind of USB3 cables or what internal circuitry you mean? There are many kinds of USB3 cables. \$\endgroup\$
    – Justme
    Commented Jan 13, 2022 at 23:13
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    \$\begingroup\$ Some USB-C cables have identification chips in them so that the connected devices can determine if the cable is meant for high power (>3A). \$\endgroup\$
    – user1850479
    Commented Jan 14, 2022 at 1:01

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Depends on what you mean by usb cable.

Standard USB A/B cables, no they should just be wires. USB C to USB A/B cables can have resistors for signaling for power. USB C with high current carrying capabilites have EMark circuits to enable the high current capabilities.

There are any number of non-standard cables that have built in circuits as well. Usb to USB network cables, or USB cables with leds or lighting, for example.

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  • \$\begingroup\$ There are also active USB extension cable that are able to exceed the maximum cable length. \$\endgroup\$
    – DoxyLover
    Commented Jan 14, 2022 at 7:47

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