[jastanton]

I once plugged my usb cable in on the first try. Goes to show you anything is possible!!

Edit: upon further inspection it turns out it was USB-C. Nevermind, all is right with the world :)

[alejohausner]

The real issue that usb cables are four-dimensional[1]. That's why applying three 180-degree rotations will return one to its original orientation.

1. https://www.smbc-comics.com/index.php?db=comics&id=2388#comi...

[diggan]

Something I learned a few weeks ago (after many years of using USB) is that usually cables have the USB logo or marking on the "right side" up. So if you don't know which one is the right side up, the one with the logo should win.

Might help some other lost souls here :)

[bluesroo]

This works until you need to plug something into the back of a computer with vertical ports.

[diggan]

Same with my monitor! I've found that what would be the natural axis towards you usually work, at least both on my TV, desktop computer (because of course you have the chassi on the right) and monitor.

[badwolf]

or the port on your keyboard is upside-down. -_-

[LesZedCB]

i know it's a joke, but the usb logo on the plug is always on top, so you can just orient it 'up' according to the underlying board (up for laptops, and facing left for desktops)

[mod]

Yeah, but then you're just guessing at the orientation of the board, so it's still anyone's guess.

[tambourine_man]

Apple cables have their logo and USB, if I recall correctly, and they always get me confused.

[tabio]

Ok I'll open up my computer case to see which way the board is mounted.

[sudojudo]

He already told you, left is up.

The side of your case that has the motherboard's backplate (where you plug everything in) is the bottom. On the vast majority of towers, the plate is on the right side, meaning left is up.

EDIT: right/left when looking at the front of the case.