Is it really just a mini-USB?

[TravelDave]

When I look at the power cord and sync cord that came with my Hero, they have an odd shape that makes me think they are cords that may be unique to HTC. However, I accidentally plugged it in to the computer with just a standard mini-USB cable (works on my Blackberry, ZEN and Sansa MP3 players, and digital camera). It charged just fine and I was able to move files to the microSD card. So I'm wondering if there's anything wrong with using my mini-USB cables (i.e. do I need to use the funny shaped cables that are made for the Hero).

Hopefully my question makes sense.

Thanks,
Dave

 

[Xyro]

The Hero's cable is an ExtUSB cable, which is mini-USB but with some extra connections for audio when using a headset.

There was a lot of confusion over it in this topic: http://androidforums.com/htc-hero/45198-alternative-htc-hero-charger.html

 

[TravelDave]

Thanks! I see what you mean about the confusion on the other thread.