Expert Advice
Check out our Expert Advice from real Maplineers to get the lowdown on what to look for when you're shopping for electronics and their accessories. There is a ton to know – from all the different types of USB-C specifications to what makes a great TV bracket and how a lithium battery works. We've boiled it all down into easy to read and watch reviews, guides, comparisons and explainers.
Why Isn’t My HDMI Cable Working? Common Issues & Fixes
HDMI cables are essential for connecting your TV, gaming console, laptop, or streaming device to displays and monitors. But when your HDMI cable isn't working, it can be incredibly frustrating — especially when your screen suddenly says “No Signal” or you’re getting no picture or sound.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most common HDMI cable issues, explain how to fix them, and help you determine if the problem lies with the cable, the port, or your device settings.
How to Diagnose & Replace Faulty Cables: A Complete Guide
Whether it’s your phone not charging, your screen flickering, or your internet dropping, a faulty cable is often the hidden culprit. Knowing how to diagnose and replace a cable can save you time, frustration, and even prevent hardware damage.
Top 10 Most Useful Cables Everyone Should Own
Whether you're working from home, gaming, travelling, or simply charging your devices, having the right cables on hand is essential. The modern home is full of tech devices—from laptops and smartphones to smart TVs and security cameras—and each one depends on reliable cable connections to function properly.
In this post, we’ll break down the top 10 most useful cables everyone should own, why they matter, and how they help you stay connected. Whether you're setting up a home office or just want to be prepared for everyday tech needs, this list will help you stay powered, synced, and ready.
What is the Longest HDMI Cable Length?
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cables are essential for transmitting high-quality audio and video signals between devices such as TVs, monitors, gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and home cinema systems. While most users have no issue with standard cable lengths, some scenarios — such as home theatre setups, office conference rooms, or digital signage installations — require significantly longer cables. This leads to a common and important question: What is the longest HDMI cable length you can use without compromising signal quality?
Does a Longer Ethernet Cable Affect Speed or Not?
When setting up a wired internet connection, one question often pops up: Does the length of an Ethernet cable affect internet speed? It’s a fair concern, especially if your modem is far from your workstation. Let’s break down the facts and clear up any confusion about cable length, speed, and performance.
Everything You Need to Know About USB-A Hubs
Everything You Need to Know About USB-A and USB-C Extension Cables
Ethernet Cables Explained: The Basics Of Network Cabling
A Complete Guide To DisplayPort Technology
A Complete Guide To HDMI: Everything You Need To Know
A Guide To Jack Plug Sizes & Cables
USB A vs USB C: Differences, Benefits, And More
How to care for your cables
Confused About Cable Types? Here's Everything You Need to Know
How do I understand the different USB cable types?
Let’s be honest, working out the different types of USB connections can be a nightmare. From charging your phone to connecting a laptop and monitor, it can be tricky to know exactly what you need.
Luckily, Maplin are on hand to help you out!