Beginning in 2016, Apple laptops have “USB-C” ports instead of  “USB Type-A” ports.

These laptops require adapters (aka “dongles”) for devices which require USB Type-A ports, such as: SD Card Readers, External Hard Drives, Printers, and Flash Drives.

Below is an example of a what a “USB Type-A” port looks like.  It is much larger and more rectangular in shape than a “USB-C” port.

Please note that many camera kits available via the Film and Digital Media Checkout Lab will need a computer with a “USB Type-A” port on it to be able to use the included USB card reader to transfer footage off of the camera and onto personal storage devices.

Film and Digital Media recommends the following adapters (depending on the intended purpose):

For connecting Card Readers, External Hard Drives, or Flash Drives
Apple USB Type-C to USB Type-A Adapter (Manufacturer part #MJ1M2AM/A)

For external video connections requiring an HDMI connection
Kramer USB 3.1 Type-C to HDMI Adapter Cable (Manufacturer part #ADC-U31C/HF)

It is best practice to avoid USB-C adapters that offer multiple ports / connections as they tend to be less stable. Some of these adapters can become very warm during usage, which will significantly compromise data transfer and file integrity on SD cards and/or external hard drives. Exceptions to this recommendation would be higher-end multi-port “docks” which supply external power, such as the CalDigit TS3 Plus Dock or OWC Thunderbolt Dock / OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock.

Last updated: Fall 2020