USB Charging - Are You Using the Correct Cable?
Summary: This 2-3 minute article explains the importance of using the correct charging cables to charge your devices safely. Contact GEEKAID Computer and Network Support, the IT experts, at https://www.geek-aid.com/ to discuss your system and ensure you are using the correct cables to charge all your devices.
USB Differences: Data Cable vs. Charging Cable
Most users of IT devices have experienced the frustration of trying to keep up with changes in cables for their tech. Many have purchased new devices, only to find their old charging cables don’t work with them. Faster charging, data transferring and higher battery capacities are welcome enhancements to the overall IT experience. However, using the wrong USB cable for the wrong device could have devastating consequences. The problem is that all USB cables are not created equal. USB-A ports on computers (what most people think of when they think of USB connections) were not invented to take power and speed afforded by USB-C cables and USB-C devices. It’s great that USB-C devices can charge faster. However, using the wrong cable could burn out your device. The reality is that charging cables are made only for charging and data cables can do both charging and data transfer.
The difference between USB cables is that data cables are thicker because they have four wires – two for charging and two for data transfer. Whereas charging cables only have two electrical wires – one positive and one negative. Although the cables look almost identical, it is hard to differentiate between them. Here are three ways to find out:
- Check the Specs – Sometimes, cable specifications will be included in the enclosed instructions. However, reaching out to the manufacturer’s customer support team is an excellent way to be sure what kind of cable you’re using.
- Check Cable Thickness – Again, a four-wire cable will be thicker and indicate both charging and data transfer capabilities.
- Check for Unusual Heat – USB-C cables with 3 Amp output may charge faster. Still, if you’re using your laptop and its USB-A port can only accommodate 2 Amps, resistance will increase to the point of causing heat or, worse, damaging both devices. A Golden Rule of Thumb to follow: If cables or devices are unusually hot, something is wrong and you should disconnect them immediately.
Case Study
A marketing manager for a company in New York City was running late to get to a sales conference in Atlantic City. While preparing for the day, she grabbed a USB-C cable out of her suitcase and used it to plug her phone into her laptop while she took a shower. When she came out, she checked her cell phone for messages and noticed it was a little hot. She didn’t think much of it and continued getting ready to leave. Finally, she disconnected her phone and packed up her laptop to attend the conference.
Everything seemed fine until the manager opened her laptop to take notes and found it hanging up every time she started to boot it up. As presentations were made, she did her best to take notes on paper or her phone. However, near the end of the afternoon sessions, her phone was on low battery and when she returned to her hotel, her laptop and cell phone were both malfunctioning. When she returned to New York and hired professional IT experts to repair her devices, she discovered she had been using the wrong USB-C cable all along and had burnt out internal components over time.
Business IT Services
Unfortunately, many people take cable compatibility for granted. They operate under the false assumption that if a cable fits, that is all one needs to know. Damaging and costly mistakes waste time and money. It is essential to know when it is time to engage the assistance of professional IT Consulting Services. IT professionals can get and keep your system running smoothly and securely from the start. A modest investment in professional IT assistance is a smart way to protect computers, networks, mobile devices and all your data while freeing up your time to concentrate on more important tasks.
GEEK-AID® Computer and Network Support provides world-class IT consulting services and specializes in customized network design and support, computer repairs, installations, updates, and maintenance for homes and small to midsized businesses. GEEK-AID®'s team of experts is comprised of top specialists in different areas of IT services, serving clients on-site and remotely for Macs, PCs and all your connected devices, including new ones that are part of the ever-expanding IoT. They can answer all your IT questions, from “Am I using the correct USB-C cable?” to “When do I need to upgrade my company’s hardware?” More importantly, when your home or business computer goes down, they will perform on-site computer repairs if required. And the GEEK-AID® team doesn't clock out at five o'clock on Friday. They are available to you 24/7, remotely or in person, to ensure your computers, network and data stay up-to-date, healthy and secure. As your business grows, expands its network and adds more devices such as smart controls, smart devices, wireless access and remote access, your network's cybercrime vulnerability and need for cyber security will grow, too. In addition to maintaining the hardware, software and security, employee training and regular IT support should be ongoing. New users and devices will require additional training to use those devices efficiently and securely. Inter-related concerns include hardware and software installation and maintenance, repair, cyber security and network protection. These concerns must be addressed consistently and proactively to best support the seamless operation of your system, minimizing costly and time-consuming mistakes.
Call (877) GEEK-AID (877-433-5243) to discuss how they can install, repair, maintain and secure your home or SMB computer network and all its devices.