The Critical Role of Jacket Letters in In-Wall Ethernet Cables
The fire rating letter on in-wall Ethernet cables is crucial, not the CAT rating, affecting where and how cables can be run.
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Why Cat7 Cables Are a Waste of Money: A Guide for Home Users
Cat7 cables are often overhyped and often less effective than cheaper alternatives like Cat6A or Cat6.
Exploring the Lifespan and Performance of Cat5e Ethernet Cables
Gregory Gibson's homelab continues to run on Cat5e, despite the availability of newer Ethernet categories. He tested the performance of Cat5e cables and found them surprisingly robust.
Understanding HDMI Cables: A Comprehensive Guide
When buying HDMI cables, focus on the specifications of your device rather than the price, as the digital nature of HDMI data means that the price doesn't affect the quality of the output.
Confused about cables? This free Mac app can reveal their secrets
There’s a lot to love about USB-C cables, but trying to keep track of what my cables can actually do drives me nuts.
Ethernet Cables: Understanding Solid-Core vs. Stranded for Effective Wall Installation
When running Ethernet cables through walls, the choice between solid-core and stranded cable is crucial for durability and performance.
The Risks of Free USB-C Cables: A Tech Guide
Free USB-C cables often come with your new devices, but they often lack the quality and specifications you expect. Here's a tech guide to help you understand the risks and make informed decisions.
Understanding the Limits of USB-C Cables: A Comprehensive Guide
High-frequency signals in USB-C cables suffer from significant signal loss over distance, making truly long cables impractical. Active solutions are available but come with their own set of challenges and costs.
The Importance of e-Marker Chips in USB-C Cables: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the importance of e-marker chips in USB-C cables is crucial for ensuring your devices receive the best performance and safety. This guide explains how to identify e-marker chips and their significance.
Five Cables USB-C Can't Replace: XLR, HDMI, Optical, and More
While USB-C has become ubiquitous, there are still several specialized cables that offer features not available in USB-C.
Understanding Your Laptop's USB-C Ports: What They Can Do and How to Check Their Capabilities
Learn how USB-C ports differ and how to test their capabilities to ensure they meet your needs for data transfer, video output, and charging.
The Power of HDMI-CEC: How to Control Your Home Theater System More Efficiently
Discover how HDMI-CEC can streamline your home entertainment setup, reducing the need for multiple remotes and enhancing your viewing experience.
4 Ethernet Cable Layout Tests: Which Ones Actually Slowed My Network?
Gregory Gibson, an IT specialist and technical writer, tested four common household cabling scenarios to determine which ones actually impacted his network speed. The results were unexpected.
How to Choose the Right USB-C Cable for Your Devices
USB-C cables have become the standard for charging and data transfer, but not all cables are created equal. Learn how to choose the right one for your devices with our guide.
Optimizing Your Mesh Wi-Fi Network: A Guide to Faster and More Reliable Connections
Learn how to improve your mesh Wi-Fi network by switching to wired backhaul, reducing speed penalties and enhancing overall performance.
Bose QuietComfort 2 Headphones Review: Comfortable and Versatile
Bose's QuietComfort 2 headphones offer a balanced design between comfort and noise cancellation, though they lack some advanced features.
5 Reasons Your Wi-Fi Is Slow Even Though Your Internet Is Fast
Your fast internet doesn't guarantee fast Wi-Fi. Learn how to optimize your router placement, Wi-Fi bands, and devices to improve performance.
Why Your HDMI 2.1 Cable Isn’t Working with Your HDMI 2.0 TV
HDMI 2.1 cables can fit HDMI 2.0 TVs, but they don't offer new features. Understanding your TV's capabilities is crucial.
Quick and Easy 3D Prints: Tools for Everyday Use
Rob LeFebvre shares his favorite quick 3D prints that save time and money, from guitar picks to AirTag holders.
Why VGA Cable Outlasted Its Successors: A 1987 Connector's Enduring Legacy
A 1987 VGA cable has outlasted its successors, including DVI, HDMI, and DisplayPort, due to its simplicity and reliability.
The Screen Team: Educating Kids and Adults on Complex Tech Topics Through Engaging Content
A TVO series aims to demystify tech subjects like AI, data storage, and self-driving cars for young and old alike, featuring tweens hosts and expert insights.
5 Ways to Maximize Your Smart TV's USB Port
Discover how to use your smart TV's USB port for media playback, photo frames, firmware updates, and more.
How Packet Tracer Revolutionized My Networking Understanding
Packet Tracer transformed my approach to networking by allowing me to simulate real-world scenarios without physical hardware.
5 Mistakes I Wouldn't Repeat When Wiring My Home Network
Wiring a home network teaches valuable lessons, but some mistakes can be costly. Here are five I'd handle differently.
The Versatile Cat6 Cable: Expanding Its Capabilities Beyond Internet
A single Cat6 cable can handle internet, HDMI, USB, power, and more, making it the most versatile in the house.
Why I Wouldn't Put USB Ports in My Walls and Neither Should You
USB outlets are slow, unreliable, and should be avoided. Use a plain outlet with a replaceable charger instead.
The HDMI Ethernet Channel: A Forgotten Potential for Home Networking
HDMI's proposed Ethernet Channel failed due to TV manufacturers' lack of internet connectivity, but its potential remains today.
Why CCA Cat6 Cable is a Bad Investment: The Hidden Dangers Behind Drywall
CCA Cat6 cables, though cheap, can be a fire hazard behind drywall. Learn how to spot and avoid them.
Why Your Laptop’s USB-C Port Might Not Be as Versatile as You Think: A Comprehensive Guide
Discover the hidden hardware divide and the importance of matching the right port and cable for optimal performance.
Building a Dolby Atmos Home Theater: Lessons Learned and Best Practices
Improving your Dolby Atmos setup requires careful consideration of room treatment, equipment, and calibration to ensure a seamless experience.