How does my Cricut connect to my computer?

Cricut cutting machines connect to a computer with a common, low cost USB cable.

USB cables are so common that you may already have one if you own a printer, digital camera or other device that connects to a computer. If you don't have a friend or relative who has an extra one and need to purchase a USB cable, please let me provide you with some guidance:

1. If you do need to purchase a USB cable, you can find them in the electronics department of many stores including Wal-Mart, Target, Best Buy, Radio Shack and others. USB cables typically cost between $3 and $15 and the price is based on cable length. USB cables typically range from 1 to 16 feet.

2. USB cables are often referred to as "Type A/B" USB Cables. This is because the connection on one end is called "Type A" and the other is called "Type B." Also, as you can see on the right, see that each end looks different.

3. Some USB cables feature gold plated connections. This does not improve performance to any degree that you will ever notice. So, save your money. Also, USB cables are available in different colors but this a decorative feature only.

If you look on the back of your Cricut to the lower left corner area, you will see two pors.
From left to right, the first port is the power connection. The port on the right is the USB cable connection.