I was tearing apart a mouse for repairs and noticed that the small plug for the USB connection had a fifth connection. This connection had a much thicker wire than the other four.
I assume it is connected to the metal sheath on the male end of the connector, but what does it actually do?
Best Answer
It's a shielding ground, usually made of copper braid. It stops stray signals from leaking in or out of the cable.
It should usually be connected at at least one end. I've seen conflicting advice over exactly how it should be connected to minimise noise and avoid ground loops.