Need help understanding USB cables


Looking to connect a streamer to a DAC via USB (A to B). I am reading that some cables separate the power from the signal portions of the cable but the DAC is powered, so what should I be looking for in a cable?

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You can test easily to see if your DAC requires the 5V power from the USB cable. You can block the 5V line (pin one) of the USB A plug with a small piece of card stock. The system will either work or not. If it works then the construction of the cable (regarding the power line) doesn’t really matter.

The required handshaking is done by the ground line, pin 4. That must always be connected, at least for a moment upon turn-on.

You mostly benefit from pushing power to a DDC etc. If you don't draw any power don't bother.