A:AnswerIf by you mean charging your Chromecast or other USB powered HDMI devices, then yes. Other than that, the USB interface to view photos is meh. Then again, it's probably easier to buy a chromecast and just cast your photos to the screen.
A:AnswerYou will need an HDMI cable and a fiber optic cable for the sound if your cable box has a connection for it. It takes all the guest work out of figuring out where to plug in your audio cable. All my cables cost me less than $15.00 online. Also, the power core is only five feet. So make sure you planned ahead and get an extension cord if you will be mounted it on the wall and your wall outlet is not within reach.