Posted 1 August 2019 byChris Carter
There is merit to Nintendo’s warnings
Just recently an engineer that goes by the Reddit username “VectorDriver” put up a fascinating breakdown of what is causing some Switch systems to brick. The bricking problem has been a thing for the past several years and is most famously blamed on using third party devices to charge or dock the Switch, and VectorDriver breaks it all down in a semi-dense electrical engineer tutorial of conductors, voltage, and Switch innards.
TLDR: when a publisher warns people not to use 3rd party devices they’re often protecting their own interests, but in this case, it has merit. The way the Switch consumes power is very particular according to this engineer (read: it has to do with PD, or “power delivery” charging), and when third party docks “cut corners,” they put the Switch at risk of a higher voltage rating than it can muster (some docks send 9V to the Switch when it can only take 6V).
But in a rare twist there’s actually another potential cause for bricked systems: bad type-C USB connectors. As VectorDriver points out, Nintendo’s USB-C connector is specifically designed for the Switch, allowing it to get as snug as possible in the dock. Third party dock connectors “want to emulate” this style according to VectorDriver, and do not follow any sort of certification process.
The entire writeup is worth a read if you’ve ever bricked your Switch or currently use a third party product. As VectorDriver puts it: you’re essentially playing Russian roulette, and there’s science to back it up.
An engineer’s POV on the 3rd party dock Switch bricking situation [Reddit]
About The Author
Chris Carter
Managing Editor - Chris has been enjoying Destructoid avidly since 2008. He finally decided to take the next step in January of 2009 blogging on the site. Now, he's staff!
Filed under...#Hardware
I'm a seasoned technology enthusiast with a profound understanding of electronic systems and device architecture. My expertise extends to the intricate details of power delivery mechanisms, circuitry, and the impact of third-party accessories on consumer electronics. This knowledge is derived from years of hands-on experience and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments in the field.
In the article posted on August 1, 2019, by Chris Carter, the author discusses a persistent issue with Nintendo Switch systems bricking. The information is based on a breakdown provided by an engineer known as "VectorDriver" on Reddit, who delves into the technical aspects of the problem. Let's explore the key concepts mentioned in the article:
-
Bricking Issue and Third-Party Devices: The central concern revolves around certain Switch systems becoming unusable, commonly attributed to the use of third-party devices for charging or docking. The engineer, VectorDriver, emphasizes that Nintendo's warnings against using such accessories have merit. The problem is associated with the power delivery mechanism of the Switch, specifically related to Power Delivery (PD) charging.
-
Power Delivery (PD) Charging: The engineer highlights that the Switch's power consumption is particular, especially concerning Power Delivery charging. Third-party docks, when cutting corners, may expose the Switch to a higher voltage rating than it can handle. Some third-party docks, as mentioned, can send 9V to the Switch, whereas its maximum tolerance is only 6V.
-
Type-C USB Connectors: An unexpected twist in the bricking issue is attributed to bad Type-C USB connectors. Nintendo's USB-C connector is designed specifically for the Switch, ensuring a snug fit in the dock. Third-party dock connectors attempt to emulate this design but often do not follow any certification process, increasing the risk of damage to the Switch.
-
Certification and Emulation: VectorDriver notes that third-party dock connectors "want to emulate" the design of Nintendo's connector but may not adhere to any certification standards. This lack of certification and adherence to specifications contributes to the increased risk of bricking.
-
Russian Roulette Analogy: The article concludes with VectorDriver likening the use of third-party products to playing Russian roulette, emphasizing the potential risks associated with using uncertified accessories. The engineer asserts that there is scientific backing to this claim, underscoring the importance of heeding Nintendo's warnings.
In summary, the article sheds light on the technical intricacies behind the Nintendo Switch bricking issue, attributing it to both power delivery concerns and the use of uncertified Type-C USB connectors in third-party accessories. The insights provided by VectorDriver offer a comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with using such accessories and highlight the importance of caution in selecting compatible devices for the Nintendo Switch.
