After X-raying and wiggling 194 cables (which adds up to 6, 056 meetings of copper and connecting pins), they found four loose wires that perform crucial command, control and pyrotechnic functions.

CNN: Challenger explosion

Author readings, question and answer sessions and community reading projects are other ways to use the wires for connecting.

FORBES: How Skype's Group Video Calling Could Help Publishers

With one connecting wire and a one-page owner's manual -- and no external speakers or wires -- these are the simplest home theater systems ever invented.

ENGADGET: ZVOX intros three new Z-Base models, lowers the pricing soundbar

However, if your vehicle doesn't have a factory-fitted USB port, connecting your MP3 player can often result in a maze of wires, inferior sound quality, and no remote control function.

ENGADGET: Ford USB Music Box adds mass storage playback, smartphone charging to AUX-enabled receivers