1.7 Overview of Wired and Wireless Connection Types Flashcards
What is USB?
Primary wired connection for mobile devices. Used for high-speed communication, charging, and syncing with computers.
What is USB Type-A?
Standard rectangular connector found on most computers for peripherals.
What is Mini-USB?
Older, bulkier connector, previously used in mobile devices, now mostly obsolete.
What is Micro-USB?
Common for older mobile devices, compact but largely replaced by USB-C.
What is USB-C?
Newer standard, reversible design, supports faster data transfer rates and power delivery. Capable of transmitting multiple signals, such as DisplayPort, HDMI, and Thunderbolt.
What are the advantages of USB-C?
USB-C supports faster charging, higher data throughput, and better versatility, making it the standard for many modern devices.
What is OTG (On-The-Go)?
A USB feature allowing mobile devices to act as a host and connect to peripherals (e.g., flash drives or keyboards).
What is Lightning?
Apple’s proprietary 8-pin connector for iPhones/iPads.
What are the advantages of Lightning?
Lightning connectors support higher power output for faster charging and offer a reversible design for easier plug-in.
What is the compatibility of Lightning?
Found on iPhones and iPads, replaced in many Apple devices by USB-C (as of 2023 in newer iPhone models).
What are the disadvantages of Lightning?
Proprietary to Apple, limiting compatibility with non-Apple devices.
What is DB-9 (DE-9)?
Older serial communication standard (RS232 signals). Used to connect older devices like modems, switches, and routers.
What is a USB-to-DB9 Adapter?
Required for laptops and desktops that lack serial ports, allowing communication with legacy devices.
What is the RS232 Standard?
Often used for direct device-to-device communication, primarily in industrial settings.
What is NFC (Near Field Communication)?
Used for close-proximity data transfers (e.g., mobile payments, device pairing, ID access).
What is the range of NFC?
Operates within a very short range (~4 cm), making it ideal for secure, localized transactions.
What is the difference between Passive and Active NFC?
Passive NFC tags don’t require power (e.g., access cards), while active NFC uses power for bidirectional communication.
What is Bluetooth?
Popular for wireless peripherals like earbuds, headsets, and car audio systems.
What are Bluetooth Versions?
With newer versions (like Bluetooth 5.0), you gain improved range, faster data transfer rates, and better power efficiency.
What are profiles in Bluetooth?
Various Bluetooth profiles exist for specific functions, such as HFP (Hands-Free Profile) for audio headsets and A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality stereo audio.
What is a Wi-Fi Hotspot?
Turns mobile phones into hotspots, allowing other devices to connect to the internet via 802.11 Wi-Fi, using the phone’s cellular network.
What is the functionality of a Wi-Fi Hotspot?
Mobile devices can share their cellular data connection with other devices by acting as a Wi-Fi access point.
What are carrier limitations regarding Wi-Fi Hotspot?
Some mobile carriers restrict hotspot usage or require additional fees to enable it.
What is Thunderbolt?
Although not as common on mobile devices, Thunderbolt technology (supported via USB-C) allows very high-speed data transfers and is commonly used in laptops and other high-performance systems.
What is Wireless Charging?
Becoming increasingly common in mobile devices, wireless charging uses Qi technology to charge devices without a physical connection.
What is Infrared (IR)?
Some mobile devices still have infrared ports, often used as remote controls for TVs and other home appliances.
