Types Of In Line Adapter

An adapter can be used in many different ways. 'Adapter' is a generic term used to describe any device that performs the general function of being a mediator between devices. A network adapter, power adapter, ethernet adapter, USB adapter or a barrel, hose or coupler adapter all have one thing in common. They are used to join together devices that are otherwise incompatible or cannot be fitted together. Hence, adapters are of immense use in any given field.

What is an In Line Adapter?

Any device is given the prefix of in line when it is literally 'in line' with the functioning of other devices. This is exactly what an in line adapter does. It is a type of adapter that is made to allow devices to connect or communicate with each other, without causing a change or disturbance in the flow of the basic material through the devices. This could be flow of electricity, internet or TV signal, radio signals, or materials such as fuel, paint, water, etc.

The job of an in line adapter, therefore, is to merely allow the flow to continue through devices that otherwise would not have been able to communicate to each other. Let us now move on to understanding the types of in line adapter available.

Types of In Line Adapter

Given the plethora of areas where it can be put to use, there are so many different types of in line adapter. Some of the popular ones are:

USB In Line Adapter: This type of in line adapter is used when there are a number of devices that need to be charged via USB, in the absence of a computer. One one end, it connects to a power source and on the other end, it has multiple USB ports. This in line adapter is quite useful especially during travel. Sometimes, electrical and USB adapters are combined, such that one adapter will have USB ports as well as power sockets. Sometimes this type of in line adapter also comes with a surge protector built into it.

Audio In Line Adapter:You may have some music player devices such as MP3 players, iPods, WMA players, etc. that you do not want to use with headphones while traveling in a car. In such a scenario, an audio in line adapter can be used to connect the music source to your car's stereo and allow the music to be played through the speakers.

In Line Y Adapter: This type of in line adapter is also a very useful one. A Y adapter is, as the name suggests, a Y shaped cable. It allows one device to be connected at one end and two at the other end. A simple application of this device is in telephone headsets. A headset adapter fitted with a Y cable allows for people to listen in to calls in a hands-free fashion, without having to use a speaker function.

There are just a few types of in line adapters that can be put to a variety of uses. Such types of in line adapters may be purchased from local stores or on the internet as well.