Can I Use My Camera's USB Cable for a GPS?

USB A to Mini-B cables are the most common connections for cameras.

Universal Serial Bus, or USB, cables have three main types of connections: A, B and Mini-B. As long as the connections match the device, the cables are interchangeable. The USB cable that comes with a camera can be used with a GPS.

USB A

USB A connections are the most common.

The USB A connector is long, flat and rectangular. It fits in computer hubs and certain other devices with a USB A connection. It is found on nearly all USB cables.

USB B

USB B connectors are used for external computer devices.

The USB B connector is a square-shaped connector, smaller than the USB A. It is used for devices such as external CD and hard drives, scanners and printers. The USB B connector is usually attached to a USB A connector.

Mini-B

USB A to Mini-B cables are the most commonly used.

Many other devices, such as digital cameras, cell phones and GPS devices, are too small to accommodate a full USB B port. Instead, they have a Mini-B port that takes a smaller trapezoidal connector.

References

• DataPro: All About USB