Jul 21 2008
Lesson Learned From Cheap Computer Power Cords
In my old Pentium 4 computer, I already experienced all kinds of problems in my hardware units from my hard disk getting unusable and files corrupted, to CD-ROM drive and RAM failing. However, just recently my external hard disk enclosure, which I used to extend the capacity of my hard drive storage, failed. I found out that it wasn’t the enclosure electronics that was failing, but the power cord! This kind of problem happens less often, but somehow still bothersome.
My hard disk enclosure’s power cable is similar to the power cord of personal computer systems. For me, it was a bit hard to detect why my enclosure had no power until I found out real cause. It came into my mind immediately that if the problem happened on my PC, it could potentially damage other hardware components. As I recalled, the computer cords I had were made in China. There have lots of news about questionable products from that country, especially imitations. I’m not saying that all products from China are substandard, but it seems for me that digital products (computer cables in general) made from United States are far better in terms of quality and reliability hands down. The cord’s rubber coating is usually thicker and sturdier.
I realized now that buying quality products are better investment than getting cheaper versions that do not last long or could even pose a risk. As for my old computer’s power cable and my hard disk enclosure, I’m going to find a new one – definitely ones made from USA. I would do the same with my other hardware electronics, otherwise it could potentially cause fire.
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