Safety hazards of inferior chargers and data cables: the truth you need to know

In the fast-paced modern life, mobile phones, tablets and other electronic devices have become "human organs". However, many people buy chargers or data cables of unknown origin for cheapness or convenience, but they don't know that these seemingly ordinary accessories may hide fatal risks - at the least, they may burn the device, and at the worst, they may cause fire or even explosion. This article will reveal the true face of inferior charging products and help you stay away from safety hazards.

1. Three "invisible killers" of inferior chargers

1.1 Short circuit and overload: the fuse of fire

Inferior chargers often use inferior capacitors, resistors or false power (such as nominal 5V/2A, but actually only supports 1A).

Consequences: The internal components overheat during charging, resulting in short circuit or overload, which may instantly ignite the plastic shell or surrounding items.

1.2 Unstable voltage: a chronic poison for equipment

Cheap chargers lack voltage stabilization chips, and the output voltage fluctuates violently (such as a sudden increase from 5V to 9V).

Consequences: Long-term use will damage the battery life and even burn the motherboard chip.

1.3 No grounding protection: The risk of electric shock increases sharply

In order to reduce costs, inferior chargers often omit the grounding wire or use inferior insulating materials.

Consequences: The metal shell is charged during charging, and if it encounters a humid environment, it may cause an electric shock accident.

2. "Hidden traps" of inferior data cables

2.1 Cutting corners on the core: Charging becomes a "burner"

The copper core diameter of inferior cables is insufficient (for example, the standard is 24AWG, and inferior products may only be 28AWG), which increases resistance.

Consequences: The cable body heats up during charging, which may melt the outer skin or cause combustion.

2.2 No shielding layer design: signal interference and leakage

In order to save costs, inferior data cables often omit aluminum foil shielding or braided mesh protection.

Consequences: Electromagnetic interference causes a decrease in charging speed, and it is easy to cause leakage risk due to wear.

2.3 Fake fast charging protocol: hurts the battery and the wallet

Some counterfeit data cables forge fast charging logos (such as fake USB-C PD protocol), but actually only support basic charging.

Consequences: Long-term "fake fast charging" will cause battery overcharging, bulging, and even explosion.

3. How to avoid inferior accessories? Look for these 4 key points

3.1 Reject "three no products"

Regular products must be marked with brand, model, input/output voltage and current, and certification marks (such as CCC, CE).

3.2 Give priority to original or certified brands

Data cables certified by Apple MFi, Huawei SuperCharge, etc. have been strictly tested and their safety is guaranteed.

3.3 Look at the details to distinguish authenticity

Charger: The plug is smooth and burr-free, and the weight is moderate (too light may lack components).

Data cable: The solder joints at the interface are neat, and the cable body is soft but not easy to deform.

3.4 Beware of low-price traps

A qualified 20W fast charging charger costs about $14, and products priced below $7 are likely to be cut corners.

4. Common Questions

Q: Can the data cable still be used if the outer skin is damaged?

Stop using it immediately! Damage will cause the internal wires to be exposed, increasing the risk of short circuits and electric shock. It is recommended to temporarily wrap it with insulating tape and replace it as soon as possible.

Q: How to determine whether the charger is overloaded?

Touch test: After charging for 20 minutes, if the surface is hot (over 50°C) or emits a burnt plastic smell, the power should be turned off immediately.

Q: Are cheap data cables definitely unsafe?

Not absolutely, but low prices are often accompanied by low quality. It is recommended to choose certified affordable brands (such as UGREEN and PISEN) rather than unmarked "street goods".

Poor-quality chargers and data cables are like "time bombs" that threaten the safety of life and property at any time. Instead of gambling on safety to save a few dozen yuan, it is better to choose compliant products and let technology truly empower life. Remember: safety is no small matter, and a careful choice may avoid a disaster.