The physical USB interface of an Android device allows it to connect to a computer to share data, such as songs, videos, and photos. This USB interface might change from manufacturer to manufacturer and also from device to device. For example, some devices use mini-USB while some others use micro-USB and USB Type C. Apart from this, some manufacturers use their own proprietary formats, such as EXT-USB, EXT micro-USB, and so on. The first step in acquiring an Android device is to determine what kind of device cable is required.
There are different types, such as mini-USB, micro-USB, and other proprietary formats. The following is a brief description of the most widely used connector types:
|
Connector type |
Description |
|
Mini - A USB |
It is approximately 7 x 3 mm in size, with two of the corners on one long side lifted out. |
|
Micro - B USB |
It is approximately 6 x 1.5 mm in size, with two corners cut off to form a trapezoid. |
|
Co-axial |
It has a circular hole with a pin sticking up in the middle. There are different sizes in this category, varying from 2 to 5 mm in diameter. Widely used with Nokia models. |
|
D Sub-miniature |
It has the shape of a rectangle with two rounded corners. The length of the rectangle varies, but the height is always 1.5 to 2 mm. Used mostly by Samsung and LG devices. |
Next, let's have a quick look at how to install device drivers.