Interview Insights: Exploring the World of Bespoke Cables and More

Chatting with the Big Boss: Insights from Mark Plummer of C2G

You: Hey there, Mark! What's the lowdown on your stint at Legrand and your duties with C2G?

Mark Plummer: Hi there! I've been riding the Legrand wave for a decade now, serving as the VP and general manager of C2G since July 2024. My main responsibility lies with the connectivity and structured wiring business at Legrand | AV under the C2G and On-Q brands.

You: That's cool! I've always wondered, how has C2G progressed throughout the years?

Mark Plummer: Well, C2G's journey started with custom cable manufacturing, think connecting a Sony monitor to a Commadore computer. Since then, we've expansively covered the IT channel to become a top connectivity vendor. We moved to the AV division of Legrand years ago, and have since broadened our expertise into the AV channel. Now, we don't just support other Legrand brands with connectivity, but also strive to provide compatibility with the market's leading brands. Innovation is our focus, as we aim to keep churning out exciting products.

*[Executive Hangout: Crafting Killer Meetings]***

You: So, what's the plan for C2G's 40th anniversary bash?

Mark Plummer: News releases, quirky swag, office decorations...we just need to finalize plans for our party!

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You: I see that C2G offers Performance Series HDMI Cables. What's the difference between premium cables and regular ones?

Mark Plummer: The Premium HDMI Cable Certification program originally testing at authorized centers, and a comprehensive authentication and verification process. It's all about providing consumers with assurance that the cables meet the 18 Gbps specification. Our Performance Series serves both Premium Certified cables and quality non-certified cables. While our non-certified cables are made from premium materials and undergo rigorous in-house testing, the Premium Certified add a measure of certainty, ensuring faultless performance and peace of mind for the customers. We also offer standard HDMI cables for budget-friendly scenarios where 1080p resolutions suffice.

You: HDMI Adapter Rings, zoom! Where are they being used and why are they so popular?

Mark Plummer: Adapter Rings are popular in conference rooms and classrooms where BYOD is welcomed. They allow for laptops to connect to monitors easily. They're also utilized in desktop applications for companies with hotdesking or sharing desks. Our color-coded adapters make identification a breeze. Additionally, Adapter Rings on retractors are trendy for lecterns.

You: USB-C is surging in the market, but has it surpassed HDMI yet?

Mark Plummer: Not quite just yet. USB-C is fantastic – video, data, and power through a single connection, but its reach is limited to 9 feet, making it suitable mainly for desktop uses. In contrast, passive HDMI cables can stretch up to 25 feet, making them preferable for conference rooms, classrooms, and digital signage. HDMI connections are still common on displays. Although more monitors with USB-C are popping up, widespread deployment is expected to take time.

*[USB-C on the Run]***

You: On the flip side, are there any older cable formats still chugging along that might surprise us?

Mark Plummer: You bet! We still move VGA cables, which have defied predictions of an analog sunset for the last 15 years. DVI and DB9 cables are also still requested, a shocking revelation indeed.

You: Is there any ideal cable length for most cable categories?

Mark Plummer: It differs by cable type, resolution/bandwidth, and cable quality. Passive HDMI cables typically span 25 feet. Passive USB 3.2 Gen 1 cables reach 9 feet. For longer distances, active cables or extenders are available. Our active extenders consist of a transmitter and receiver connected with a Category cable, allowing for up to 328 feet of extension.

You: Some cheap docking stations are everywhere; what sets C2G's offerings apart?

Mark Plummer: Quality controls the game. Compatibility challenges the market, with C2G dedicating resources to ensuring seamless performance when you plug in. The price of the docking station depends on required features: for basic needs, an affordable solution may suffice. However, for multi-monitor setups, high resolutions, high bandwidth, or Ethernet, investing in a reliable docking station is crucial.

You: System contractors, listen up! How can you maximize profits with C2G's offerings?

Mark Plummer: Specifying connectivity items earlier in a project helps with bid pricing and avoidance of costly expedited delivery charges. Simplifying the connectivity process by consolidating purchases with C2G may lead to better volume pricing.

Mark Plummer highlighted the iterative growth of C2G, moving from custom cable manufacturing to becoming a top connectivity vendor, while expanding their expertise beyond IT and into the AV channel, with a focus on innovation and providing compatibility with leading brands.
Mark Plummer explained the significance of the Premium HDMI Cable Certification program, assuring consumers that the certified cables meet the 18 Gbps specification, and demonstrated the differences between premium cables and regular ones in terms of testing processes, quality, and consumer assurance.
The use of Adapter Rings, popular in conferencing and hotdesking environments, was explained by Mark Plummer, in conjunction with their advantages, such as easy identification, versatility, and trendiness in certain settings.