Question Replace micro b USB 3.0 port with micro b USB 2.0?

[JanieFromOz]

I have a Netgear Aircard 790s modem. The charging port is a micro b USB 3.0 but the charging cable is only micro b USB 2.0. As a result the cable connection is very loose, falls out, doesn't connect properly etc etc. This means the modem does not charge without a lot of fiddling to get the cable at just the right angle and depth.

I have tried the following:

1. different micro b USB cables (still doesn't connect well)
2. cleaning the port
3. a micro b USB 3.0 cable (this fits snuggly but doesn't even show as successful USB connection, let alone charge)

So, was it correct to try the micro b USB 3.0 cable?
Is there anything else I can try?
Can I replace the port with just a micro b USB 2.0 port? Or is that a stupid idea?

I'm hoping there is a fix for this as the modem is new.

Thanks

 

[Moonstick2]

USB 2.0 micro cables are compatible with USB 3.0 micro sockets, you just don't get the speed. If it's only for charging then that shouldn't even matter (the extra connector to the side is data only) but it's unclear why they use a 3.0 socket if this is only for charging.

It's also unclear why your 3.0 cable won't charge the device.

If this is new, you should be sending it back complaining that the cable doesn't match the port and stays too loose to charge, not considering trying to solder in a 2.0 port yourself.

 

[OscarMClure11]

@JanieFromOz, You may also want to try and wrap the micro USB 2.0 connector with electrical tape for a snug fit. Also, check for debris in the charging port. If the problem persists, contact Netgear support or return for a replacement or repair. Avoid attempting port replacement yourself if you don't have experience as it's risky and may void the warranty. Good luck!

 

[JanieFromOz]

My question was based on a last ditch effort to get it working properly.

1. The seller barely acknowledges a problem; has not offered a replacement, and only suggested buying a new cable.
2. Netgear will not honour the warranty as it was not bought through an authorised seller (Netgear's website doesn't even specify a list of authorised sellers). They have also tried to wiggle out of it by stating the manufacture date was a long time ago, and you cannot expect the device to work now (this is not on their website either). All this despite the device details successfully registering on Netgear's website which confirmed a warranty was still applicable.
3. PayPal will not honour their buyer protection policy because it's past their coverage period (I received the device in November 2022 to allow enough time for delivery issues and possible product issues but basic testing - inserting SIM, connecting to the internet, receiving a cable etc were all fine). It was not used intensively until March 2023 for a 3 month trip. This was when problems became apparent.
4. Visa are also unlikely to honour buyer protection due to time delays (but I will try). This will also cost me a fee to lodge the dispute and will not be refunded, even if I receive a refund for the transaction.
5. It was very difficult to action any of this sooner as our devices (phones and modem) did not work where we were staying ie - no network coverage at all, and even after purchasing a rival's data SIM card, the internet speed was usually <1Mbps in the evenings. This made any activity on the internet impossible.
6. I have also checked the Australian Consumer guarantee which clearly states I am entitled to a refund, but no-one enforces this unless I engage legal help.

So overall, this has been a fairly painful experience. And it seems that it's OK to produce rubbish that doesn't even last 3 months.

Thank you for your responses. It has at least confirmed that the micro b USB 3.0 cables should work; and that replacing the port is a 'no go'.