Be informed before you buy USB C devices

116°
Critic
StupendousMan

I see a lot of people buying generic Usb C cables and chargers, just want you to know that they can be harmful and might even blow your device. How?

Benson Leung, an engineer from google working on USB C devices has dedicated his google plus account for reviewing and informing people what is different with USB C and what precautions to take while buying a new USB C charger and cable.

Google plus a/c https://plus.google.com/collection...ov
Amazon profile amazon.com/gp/profile/amzn1.account.AFLICGQRF6BRJGH2RRD4VGMB47ZA

Unlike microUSB USB C is quite complicated and comes in variations, reason is USB C is going to be the universal format which would work for laptops, mobiles and any other form of electronics that needs to be powered from outside. So, for various needs different kinds of USB C chargers and cables are made e.g., USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB 3.1PD etc.

Why the need for extra caution?
Recently there have been instances where phone melted or caught fire or screen behaves weird(ghost touches) while charging. Reason in many instances has been seen faulty charger or cable. Some major companies have been caught selling faulty chargers. https://www.google.co.in/search?q=oneplus+one+f...

So, head over google and educate yourself on USB C before blindly buying a charger or cable.

In short,
1. Qualcomm Quick charge and USB C are not compatible with each other, if anyone is selling a device with both then it’s likely a fault.
2. Same dimension and spec cable won’t work for each length cable.
3. Micro-USB was one directional, i.e., it power would flow from one side to another but USB C is reversible. Power can flow from either side. To mark the stream correctly a resistor is placed on the connector and this is what most cables are missing. Without a resistor the devices can’t determine how to behave.
4. Earlier USB had three voltages 1A, 2A, and 2.4A levels. With USB C it’s 3A, higher but the device can draw 3A only if the charger provides it and the cable is of proper specs.
5. The USB C cables that can be used with earlier standards are called ‘legacy cables’ and ONLY supports charging upto 900mA on USB 3.1(slow charging).
6. Even if you are using a generic charger if you use a good cable, the charger/adapter may just charge slower than the 3A fast charger but not damage your device.
7. If you want to charge fast then use a C-to-C cable with the default USB Type-C 3A fast charger.

There is small app that can check for faulty cable(only for 56k resister) named CheckR https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/in-sight-labs/c...r/. Unfortunately, it works on Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X and Pixel C only. So, I would like those folks here who own either of three phones mentioned to check cables for us. The reason I am asking is because ever since Benson has started checking and reviewing the cables, those who passed his tests have hiked their prices. You can see here http://www.amazon.in/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=searc... that those brands also mention (passed by CheckR) in their description and charging premium for it. I see folks buying cheap cables from Aliexpress if you also happen to possess Google phones then please check if the cable is ok and pass us the good info. Thanks.

Edit: IF you are using USB 2.0 port to charge your device then you are safe.

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