Question USB cable tester device?

[gomezz]

Just wondering how useful these devices are. I have a couple of ongoing issues with USB charging. First are my Momentum neckband earbuds on which the charger light no longer works - they still charge but no idea when they are fully charged or even if they are charging at all. Which leads onto the second issue which is I am suspecting the cable used of being iffy. Use the same cable for charging my old tablet and that only now seems to charge at a slow rate as though it is no longer has the connectivity needed to negotiate charging at a faster rate - presuming the contacts have become worn.

Anyway wondering if one of those inline USB cable testers would help with one of both of those issues. Got this one in mind.

nb Already swapped the USB cable out for another one but having charging indication on the earbuds back would be a boon.

 

[VidJunky]

It sounds like you're on the right track. Gemini says.

If your Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless earbuds charge but the light doesn't work, it could be due to a few issues. First, ensure the charging contacts on the earbuds and in the case are clean. Try charging them with a different charger or outlet. If the problem persists, a factory reset might help. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Cleaning the Charging Contacts: [2]

• Dirt, dust, or earwax buildup can disrupt the connection between the earbuds and the charging case.
• Use a soft cloth or a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the contacts on both the earbuds and the charging case. [2]

2. Different Charger or Outlet: [3, 5]

• Try charging the earbuds using a different USB cable or power outlet. This can help rule out a faulty charger or power source. [3, 5]

3. Factory Reset: [3, 3, 4, 4]

• If the above steps don't work, a factory reset might resolve the issue. [3, 3, 4, 4]
• The specific process for a factory reset depends on your Momentum True Wireless model, but it typically involves holding down a button on the charging case or the earbuds for a certain duration, as indicated in the manual or online resources. [4, 4, 6]

4. Other Potential Issues: [7, 7]

• Defective Unit: If none of the above steps work, the earbuds might have a manufacturing defect. Contact Sennheiser support for a potential replacement or repair. [7, 7]
• Software Issues: Sometimes, software glitches can affect charging or LED indicators. Ensure your Sennheiser Smart Control app is updated, and consider a software update for the earbuds if available. [8, 8, 9, 9, 10, 11]
• Firmware Update: Check for and install any available firmware updates for your earbuds through the Sennheiser Smart Control app. [8, 8, 9, 9]

Important Notes: [1, 1, 4, 4, 6, 6]

• Refer to your Momentum True Wireless earbuds' manual for specific instructions on cleaning, charging, and resetting. [1, 4, 6]
• If you're unsure about any of the steps, consult Sennheiser's support resources or a qualified technician. [1, 1, 7, 7]

I've never used or heard of a USB tester, sorry I can't say anything there.

 

[gomezz]

It sounds like you're on the right track. Gemini says.

If your Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless earbuds charge but the light doesn't work, it could be due to a few issues. First, ensure the charging contacts on the earbuds and in the case are clean. Try charging them with a different charger or outlet. If the problem persists, a factory reset might help. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Cleaning the Charging Contacts: [2]

• Dirt, dust, or earwax buildup can disrupt the connection between the earbuds and the charging case.
• Use a soft cloth or a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the contacts on both the earbuds and the charging case. [2]

2. Different Charger or Outlet: [3, 5]

• Try charging the earbuds using a different USB cable or power outlet. This can help rule out a faulty charger or power source. [3, 5]

3. Factory Reset: [3, 3, 4, 4]

• If the above steps don't work, a factory reset might resolve the issue. [3, 3, 4, 4]
• The specific process for a factory reset depends on your Momentum True Wireless model, but it typically involves holding down a button on the charging case or the earbuds for a certain duration, as indicated in the manual or online resources. [4, 4, 6]

4. Other Potential Issues: [7, 7]

• Defective Unit: If none of the above steps work, the earbuds might have a manufacturing defect. Contact Sennheiser support for a potential replacement or repair. [7, 7]
• Software Issues: Sometimes, software glitches can affect charging or LED indicators. Ensure your Sennheiser Smart Control app is updated, and consider a software update for the earbuds if available. [8, 8, 9, 9, 10, 11]
• Firmware Update: Check for and install any available firmware updates for your earbuds through the Sennheiser Smart Control app. [8, 8, 9, 9]

Important Notes: [1, 1, 4, 4, 6, 6]

• Refer to your Momentum True Wireless earbuds' manual for specific instructions on cleaning, charging, and resetting. [1, 4, 6]
• If you're unsure about any of the steps, consult Sennheiser's support resources or a qualified technician. [1, 1, 7, 7]

I've never used or heard of a USB tester, sorry I can't say anything there.

Thanks for replying. That actually relate to the True Wireless earbuds rather than the neckband earbuds I have though the general advice holds good for either. Gone for a cheaper simpler inline tester to use when charging them so I can once more keep an eye on the state of charge.

After some further testing it appears it is the USB cable which is faulty possibly where there is a kink near the A plug end - time to bin it I think. I have others I can use though I really need another longer one to replace this one.

 

[gomezz]

Re the kink: Suspect that was caused by using the cable with a plug with a sideways socket that gave a tight fit against another plug in the same double-banked power strip. Just ordered a new plug with the socket on top and reuse the old plug where its socket will not clash - in fact means that I can get away without needing another longer cable.

 

[gomezz]

After a bit of experimentation looks like I do need a new longer cable. Checking the dud cable now realise that is was not a recognisably reputable brand so ordered a UGreen this time.

 

[gomezz]

All bits and pieces arrived today. The tester does the job of showing the amperage being drawn so when that drops to virtually zero that tells me the device is charged as hoped for. Only problem is finding a way of plugging in that particular charger to make it easy to read the small display without getting down on my hands and knees!

 

[gomezz]

A bit of juggling and found a solution of using the fast charger that came with my S20FE as my main micro socket fast charger with the tester as the USB socket on that is horizontal which mean the tester display faces up so is easier to read. Then use the other fast charger for USB-C charging of phone, JBL speaker or Anker earbuds (only three USB-C devices I currently have but which have working charge-state indication).

That said I came across this yesterday which looks tempting and which I may still go for for to tidy up my bank of USB / Other chargers:-

Amazon.co.uk

Edit: Having just read some of the reviews perhaps I will stick with what I have.