Using heat shrink to stop data cables breaking?

[u0362565]

Hi all,

I was thinking to use heat shrink to strengthen usb cables where the cable enters the connector. I find the insulation starts to crack over time as the cable is bent where the insulation joins to the USB connector. This would be as an alternative to insulation tape. I haven't used heat shrink before but does it work if if you slice the heat shrink open down its length? Basically I can't use heat shrink tubing if it can't be slit open as it won't fit over the USB connector. If not then I guess it's insulation tape or heat shrink tape if such a thing exists and is worth using?

Thanks for the advice

 

[nicebutdim]

I don't think heatshrink would add much in the way of substance - at least no more than several wraps of electrical tape.

My daughter destroys USB cables, whereas I've only had one fail in all the years I've been using them. The key is not to tie them in knots or place undue strain on connections by stretching them.

 

[u0362565]

I don't think heatshrink would add much in the way of substance - at least no more than several wraps of electrical tape.

My daughter destroys USB cables, whereas I've only had one fail in all the years I've been using them. The key is not to tie them in knots or place undue strain on connections by stretching them.

Ok thanks. I think it depends on the cable quality to some extent. I tend to use longer cables that are quite thin but not very robust. Guess I'll try insulation tape for now

 

[nicebutdim]

Ok thanks. I think it depends on the cable quality to some extent. I tend to use longer cables that are quite thin but not very robust. Guess I'll try insulation tape for now

Quality varies wildly. OE cables supplied with expensive items tend to be considerably better than unbranded replacements available on the high street or from online marketplaces. I'm primarily concerned with how quickly a device will charge and the latter tend to also fall flat on that front.