I am using this cable to control a USB B electronic device (e.g. a printer). Since self-powered devices (such as printers) do not require a 5VDC 500mA power supply, this cable works great. DO NOT use long USB cables to power small external hard drives as they require 5V 500mA to operate. The DATA lines in the USB cable work great even over long distances (e.g. 30 or 50 feet). This is a very well shielded cable and perfect for my application (IC-7300 radio).