Re:Framework Laptop 2.5Gbps Ethernet Expansion Card
by cesarb on Monday September 12, 2022 @03:56PM
(#32815987)
> Many laptops have modular barrel connector subcomponents that are easy to replace for anyone who is comfortable opening laptops.
That's one thing that makes me a bit uncomfortable about the current trend to use only USB-C for charging. At least on my current laptop (and I believe many other models from the same manufacturer), the "traditional" barrel connector is separate from the motherboard, connected to it by a short length of wire, while the USB-C connector is soldered directly to the motherboard and reinforced by a piece of metal. Any mechanical stress to the charging cable (for instance, from tripping on it) will go to the chassis for the barrel connector, but for the USB-C connector it will go directly to the motherboard.
Where exactly does "easily repair" mean? It all depends on who the end user is. Consider three very different users:
1. Expert: Replacing connectors on motherboards is not particularly hard for someone with experiencing soldering surface mount components.
2. Intermediate: Many laptops have modular barrel connector subcomponents that are easy to replace for anyone who is comfortable opening laptops.
3. Non-technical: Many consumers are uncomfortable opening laptops at all. Many have thrown away laptops with modular batteries.
Because there are lots of different users on different levels of technical ability, creating a "repairable" laptop can mean a lot of different things depending on where you draw the line.