USB-c will not reverse flip.

Both USB-C and Lightning plug-connectors can be connected to a compatible iPad either way-up. The plug itself is designed to be completely reversible.

If you have a USB-C or Lightning cable that only works one-way - and not the other - the cable is defective and must be discarded. Never attempt to use a defective or damaged cable with your iPad - as you may cause considerable (i.e., expensive) damage to the iPad; a cable, by contrast, is relatively cheap and easy to replace.

If you continue to experience difficulties having replaced the cable, you would be best advised to visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad and cable(s):

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

The 4th Generation iPad does not have a USB-C connection. It has a Lightning connection and came with a lightning to USB-A cable. This cable on the computer side can only be inserted on way into your computer and cannot be inserted the other way and you won’t need to mark it because it simply will NOT let you plug it in when flipping it over. The lightning side of it that plugs into your iPad can plug in either way and shouldn’t matter which way you plug it in. However, if it’s not working when you plug it in one way, then you either have something wrong with that cable and can try a different one, or you have something wrong with the port on your iPad which would require your iPad being serviced. You can try a different cable in either instance and if it works then you know it was the cable. If it doesn’t work, then you know that it’s the port on your iPad and it’s going to need serviced.

If it’s the latter of the two and the port needs serviced, you can get in touch with Apple Service and they will be able to assist you with the next steps and the cost to getting this repaired.

sharonmarie56 wrote:

My 4th generation iPad:

The fourth generation iPad does not use USB-C! It uses the original USB port, which is not symmetrical.

iPad (4th generation) - Technical Specifications

If your use of other compatible Power Adapters have not resolved the issue, this reasonably supports the likely hypothesis that your cable is faulty or otherwise defective.

Should the problem persist with a new Apple charging/data-cable, you would be best advised to have the technicians at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store or AASP assess and test your iPad. If you have benefit of a current warranty or active AppleCare plan, the problem will be resolved at either no or minimal cost to you.

If the plug has been exposed to moisture, in particular if if the connector was not completely dry when being used, the connector is certain to have been damaged. USB-C connectors are not designed to tolerate any moisture; they are certainly not water resistant.

In addition to the contacts that can be damaged by moisture, the plug itself contains electronic components.