How to check if a USB-C cable is e-marked

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To check if a USB-C cable is e-marked, you can use a USB-C tester or software tools that analyze the cable's specifications. E-marked cables are designed to support higher power delivery and data transfer rates, making them essential for charging and data-intensive applications.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin checking if your USB-C cable is e-marked, ensure you have the following:
  • •A USB-C cable you want to test.
  • •A USB-C tester or a compatible device with software that can read USB specifications.
  • •A computer or mobile device to install any necessary software.
  • •Basic understanding of USB-C specifications.

Method 1: Using a USB-C Tester

This method is straightforward and provides immediate results. A USB-C tester can quickly determine if a cable is e-marked.
  • •Step 1: Connect the USB-C tester to a power source using a known e-marked USB-C cable.
  • •Step 2: Plug the USB-C cable you want to test into the tester's output port.
  • •Step 3: Observe the display on the tester. If it shows power delivery capabilities and data transfer rates, the cable is likely e-marked.
  • •Step 4: If the tester does not display any information or shows lower power ratings, the cable may not be e-marked.

For Windows 11

If you prefer to use software on Windows 11 to check the cable's specifications:
  • •Open Device Manager by right-clicking the Start button and selecting 'Device Manager'.
  • •Expand the 'Universal Serial Bus controllers' section.
  • •Right-click on the USB-C port you are using and select 'Properties'.
  • •Go to the 'Details' tab and select 'Hardware Ids' from the dropdown. Look for identifiers that indicate e-marking.

For Windows 10

To check USB-C cable specifications on Windows 10:
  • •Press Windows + X and select 'Device Manager'.
  • •Locate 'Universal Serial Bus controllers' and expand it.
  • •Right-click on the USB-C port and choose 'Properties'.
  • •In the 'Details' tab, select 'Hardware Ids' to view the cable's specifications.

Method 2: Using Software Tools

Software tools can provide detailed information about USB-C cables and their capabilities.
  • •Step 1: Download and install a USB diagnostic tool such as 'USB Device Tree Viewer' or 'USBlyzer'.
  • •Step 2: Connect the USB-C cable to your computer.
  • •Step 3: Launch the software and navigate to the USB device tree.
  • •Step 4: Look for the connected USB-C cable and check its properties. If it lists e-marking capabilities, the cable is e-marked.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while checking your USB-C cable, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Device not recognized' - Solution: Ensure the cable is properly connected and try a different USB port.
  • •Issue: 'No data transfer' - Fix: Check if the cable is e-marked; if not, it may not support data transfer.
  • •Problem: 'Inconsistent power delivery' - Workaround: Test the cable with a known e-marked cable to compare performance.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users looking to optimize their USB-C experience:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Windows + R - Opens the Run dialog for quick access to Device Manager.
  • •Command line: 'wmic path Win32_USBControllerDevice get DeviceID' - Lists connected USB devices for further inspection.
  • •Hidden feature: USB Power Delivery (PD) specifications - Use a compatible tester to measure actual power delivery capabilities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For optimal performance, always use e-marked USB-C cables with devices that require high power delivery or data transfer rates.