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Anker issues recall and replacements after researcher demonstrates unsafe USB-C cables

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"We're at an interesting crossroads in Android hardware. Manufacturers are switching from MicroUSB for power and wired data to the newer, more capable USB-C standard. But the rush to provide mobile users with hundreds of millions of new cables and chargers creates, well, a rush. We've already seen some USB-C cables and other hardware that have been substandard, sometimes with disastrous results. So civic-minded geeks, including independent researcher Nathan K., have been looking into the performance and power output of popular cables.

It turns out that a specific cable from budget accessory provider Anker might be dangerous, because it "remembers" the voltage for the USB-C power input on some newer laptops like the Chromebook Pixel, then provides that same voltage to phones if not unplugged from a more powerful charging base. USB-C laptops are designed to take 15V-20V power input, but some phones are only designed to take inputs at up to 5V. The differential could damage low-power electronics or, in extreme cases, cause battery explosions or fires.

Here's Nathan's video demonstrating the faulty cable that sends unsafe voltages to devices that aren't designed to accept them. With cables (or at least the USB-C connections on them) now compatible with everything from a tiny wearable to a full-power laptop, it's a serious problem for end users.
"


"Anker further instructing customers to simply throw their faulty cables away."

Anker:
"We are offering all of our PowerLine USB-C A8185011 users a full refund. In addition, we would like to offer a free Anker PowerLine USB-C cable to affected customers once we have improved Anker PowerLine USB-C A8185011."

http://www.androidpolice.com/2016/0...-researcher-demonstrates-unsafe-usb-c-cables/
 
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great.

at first when i saw this thread i figured it would be about the cable catching fire.

instead, the fire could be at the device its plugged into..
 
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Remember when we chatted in a thread about USB Type C before it started showing up on devices, and most that were critical of it spoke of the tiny wires making it less reliable. Well so far all we're seeing is some manufacturer's being errant in wiring them, which will unfortunately probably have the effect of many people assuming USB-C is no good at all due to design, rather than a few rushed mistakes in manufacturing.

As with all new standards the consumer must carefully check for reviews on such products before purchasing. It's always buyer beware, and not just with USB-C.
 
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I really watched the video hoping to see something get bricked. :p
 

Kanan

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I really watched the video hoping to see something get bricked. :p
Hahaha me too was somewhat shocked when he presented his phone but he didnt do it.
 
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