A cheap cable can ruin your phone: how to charge properly

The charging cable is the most commonly broken accessory. And it seems that it is also the easiest to replace. But experts say that it can be dangerous to buy the first wire you see.

OBOZREVATEL explains what's wrong with cheap charging cables. How it can turn out. And how to choose the right accessory if you need to replace it.

What problems can arise due to a bad cable

A cheap cable can be made by using inappropriate materials that will break contact with the device and conduct electricity poorly. This can result in:

• failure of the charging socket;
• lack of connection between the phone and the cable;
• battery overheating during charging;
• too long accumulation of energy or its complete absence;
• danger of a short circuit and, in the worst case, a subsequent fire.

How to choose the right charging cable

However, problems can also arise with a high-quality wire if its characteristics do not meet the requirements of the phone battery. Therefore, when buying a new one, always check the output voltage (measured in volts) and current (measured in amperes) – these data should be indicated on the gadget's battery. Even if the battery is not removable, it should have a corresponding sticker with all the technical data. In addition, do not use a tablet cable to charge a smartphone and vice versa.

How to check if it's time to change the cable

Since the quality of a cable's performance is affected by the degree of wear and tear, you need to check it regularly. From time to time, inspect the connector and the wire itself for dents, scuffs, cracks, kinks, etc.

Also, pay attention to whether the phone starts to heat up while charging. If so, start by trying to replace the charger.

Periodically inspect the cable connector and the cable slot for dirt. Dust, lint, animal hair, and any other foreign objects should be removed in time, as they negatively affect the connection of the devices.

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