Ribbon cables are flat, flexible cables that consist of multiple wires running parallel to each other. They are commonly used in electronic devices to connect various components, such as circuit boards and hard drives. The design allows for efficient space usage and easy organization of connections, making them ideal for tight spaces. These cables often come in a variety of widths and wire counts, depending on the application. IDE and SATA are examples of interfaces that utilize ribbon cables. Their versatility and ease of use make them a popular choice in both consumer electronics and industrial applications.