Quick Fix: Fixing a loose Micro USB Cable

June 17, 2014

Almost everyone has a smartphone or another device that connects with a Micro USB cable. And almost everyone has had a cable become loose over time and not fit securely. It can be infuriating to have the cable drop out a the slightest movement or to head endless pings from your computer telling you the cable disconnected. Rather than throw out a cable and get a new one, here’s a simple 5-min fix that can restore your cable back to new (or at least make it stay put).

On most Micro USB cables there are a pair of metal tabs on one side. The problem is that over time these tabs can be flattened. When that happens the USB cable will be come loose unless the port is particularly tight. The way to fix this is to raise the tabs and then fold them over, making for a tighter and sturdier fit.

The first thing we need to do is to raise the tabs. I used a precision flat screwdriver to lift the tabs as pictured below. You want to be careful doing this. While the tabs are metal they are also quite thin; bending them too much repeatedly can is will snap them off. You goal is to get them at about a 45 degree angle. Once done we can move on to the next step.





Now that the tabs are properly raised we want to fold them over to help them to keep their shape. I found the easiest way was to take a staple and slide it under the tabs. It should be small enough to fit under the tabs without being too thick. Once you have the paperclip in position, use the screwdriver (or whatever tool you’re using) to gently but firmly push down on the ends of the tabs until they fold over the paperclip. When you’re done, remove the paperclip and you’re done.

Your USB should fit snugly into the USB port. Be careful the first time you plug it in as it may be fairly secure depending on the device’s port. You should be able to repeat this any time the cable starts to get loose too keep the cable snug. This method can probably be adapted to other cable types that use similar tabs to secure the cable.

Hopes this saves you some time, frustration and money. Til next time!

Sources:

Micro USB Cable Image – alibaba.com