Computer Cables, Adapters and Accessories

Sort by connector first

This department is organized around what needs connecting. Begin with the two ports you have. For a cable, check the connector standard on each end, the version it supports and the length. For an adapter, note which side is input and which is output, since many video adapters only work in one direction. Cables and adapters can look alike yet carry different things, so read the listed standard rather than the shape. Go to Cables & Cords when both ends match and Adapters, Converters & Splitters when they do not.

Fans, lighting headers and power protection inside the case

Cooling parts follow a few physical standards. Case fans come in 80, 92, 120 and 140 mm frames, and the screw spacing differs for each size. Three-pin fans are speed-controlled by voltage and four-pin PWM fans by signal. Addressable RGB lighting (ARGB) uses a 5 V three-pin header, while plain RGB uses 12 V with four pins, and swapping them can damage the LEDs. Surge protectors and backup power are rated in watts or volt-amperes, so add up your load first.

Questions about Computer Cables, Adapters and Accessories

How do I tell which side of an adapter is the input?

Check the listing for the connector on each end, named in order. Many video adapters are one-way, such as DisplayPort to HDMI, and will not work reversed. Gender, male plug or female socket, must also match the cable or port you plan to connect.

Can a 140 mm fan replace a 120 mm fan?

Only if the case or radiator has 140 mm mounting positions. Many cases accept both through slotted holes, but the hole spacing differs between sizes. Check the fan's mounting spec and thickness, since 25 mm is the common depth and slim fans are thinner.

What is the difference between RGB and ARGB fans?

RGB fans use a four-pin 12 V header and show one color across all LEDs. ARGB fans use a three-pin 5 V header and control each LED separately for effects. The plugs look similar, so check which your motherboard offers before connecting.