Why Unused or Stored Electronics Stop Working
Tags: unused electronics failure, stored devices not working, corrosion in electronics, capacitor degradation, battery deterioration, PCB oxidation, connector corrosion, device storage issues, humidity effects on electronics, electronic component lifespan, device maintenance tips, preventing electronic failure, long-term storage effects, electronic device preservation, environmental impact on electronics, hardware component aging, moisture-induced corrosion, electronic device care, storage environment recommendations, electronic equipment longevity
The Silent Menace: Corrosion
One of the leading culprits behind the failure of unused electronics is corrosion. Corrosion occurs when metal components are exposed to moisture and oxygen, leading to the gradual deterioration of these parts. Even when electronics are stored away, they are not immune to the effects of humidity in the air.
Here’s a list of hardware components in electronics, especially CCTV systems, that are prone to short shelf lives:
- Capacitors: Over time, the electrolyte inside capacitors can evaporate or leak, causing the component to fail.
- Batteries: Batteries can degrade and lose their charge capacity caused by the break-down of chemical components, frequent charge cycles, self-discharge or lack of use from storage, or temperature extremes. See Why do battery-powered cameras lose charge over time?
- Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs): The metallic traces on PCBs can corrode or become oxidised.
- Connectors and Sockets: These metal parts can suffer from corrosion and lose their effectiveness.
- Motors and Moving Parts: In some devices, motors and moving parts can become jammed or lose lubrication.
Real-World Scenarios
Imagine buying a CCTV system and storing it away, thinking you'll set it up later. Fast forward a few years, and you finally decide it's time to install it. However, to your dismay, it doesn't power on. This might be because the capacitors have dried out, or the connectors have corroded, breaking the circuit.
In another scenario, you had a security camera system set up but decided to unplug it for several months due to renovations. When you plug it back in, it doesn't work. Here, moisture may have crept into the device, causing corrosion on sensitive parts like the connectors or PCBs.
Storing an electronic (such as a recorder or an indoor wireless camera) in its original box does not guarantee enclosure from environmental elements, as cardboard disintegrates over the course of years.
In a different scenario, the product powers on, but the app is no longer available for updated mobile devices or update computers.
The downside of purchasing an electronic equipment and not using it for months or more will also affect the following:
- Ability to refund the product: Retailers have a period of time for allowing returns or exchanges, and it is much shorter than the actual warranty.
- Warranty of the product: The warranty of a device is always based from the date of purchase from an authorised retailer, and not the date of installation nor opening of the box. Physical receipts degrade over time or can get lost if customers do not digitally store them. Retailers, by law, are required to retain copies of invoices or transactions at least 3-5 years.
- Technological obsolescence: A device's hardware may be no match for recent changes, developments and advancements in networking protocols and mobile device compatibility, such as Android 14 and the latest iOS version. Hardware parts also are no longer produced and run out in stock due to demand and supply for more advanced products.
Why Does This Happen?
Electronics are designed to be used regularly. When they are powered on, the heat they generate can help evaporate moisture and keep internal components dry. However, when left unused, this protective mechanism is absent, making these devices vulnerable to environmental factors like humidity and temperature fluctuations.
Once a box is unsealed and the device is plugged into power at least once, it must be used and not stored for long periods again. Although parts will degrade with use, some parts will degrade faster if not used. Hardware parts have limited shelf life, whether they are assembled or not.
Prevention Tips
To extend the life of your electronics, consider these tips:
- Store in a Dry, Cool Place: Avoid high humidity and temperature extremes.
- Use Silica Gel Packs: These can help absorb moisture.
- Regularly Power On Devices: Even if you're not using them, occasionally powering on electronics can help ward off moisture.
- Seal in Anti-Static Bags: For long-term storage, use anti-static bags to protect sensitive components.
In conclusion, while the marvel of modern electronics brings convenience and security, they are not invincible against the passage of time and environmental factors. Understanding the risks and taking preventive measures can help you ensure that your electronics remain functional when you need them the most.