In a concerning development for PC peripheral safety, a Gigabyte M6880X wired mouse reportedly caught fire, causing property damage and raising questions about the long-term safety of aging computer peripherals. The incident has prompted Gigabyte to launch an internal investigation, highlighting the potential risks associated with older computer hardware.
The Incident
A Reddit user reported their Gigabyte M6880X mouse suddenly burst into flames, producing large flames and filling their room with black smoke. The fire caused significant damage to the mousepad and left char marks on the desk. The user managed to extinguish the fire quickly, but the room was left covered in black particles, affecting other equipment including a modular synthesizer.
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| A Gigabyte M6880X wired mouse, which was involved in a fire incident, emphasizing the importance of peripheral safety |
Technical Analysis
The M6880X is a wired USB 2.0 mouse that operates at 5V and 0.5A specifications. These standard USB specifications typically include built-in protections against power surges. The mouse's age - over 10 years old - may have contributed to the incident, though the exact cause remains unclear. Notably, the fire damage was concentrated primarily on the top of the mouse, while the bottom remained relatively intact.
Gigabyte's Response
The company has acknowledged the incident and initiated an investigation. Gigabyte representatives have reached out to the affected user and stated that customer safety is their top priority. This response comes against the backdrop of previous quality concerns, including issues with certain PSU models in 2021.
Safety Implications
This unusual incident highlights the importance of proper peripheral maintenance and potential risks of using aging hardware. While computer mice typically don't include extensive safety protections like those found in power supplies or motherboards, spontaneous combustion is extremely rare. The incident serves as a reminder for users to regularly inspect their older peripherals for signs of wear or damage.
Preventive Measures
While this appears to be an isolated incident, it underscores the importance of investing in quality computer peripherals from reputable manufacturers. Users should consider replacing aging peripherals, particularly those showing signs of wear or malfunction, to minimize potential safety risks. Regular cleaning to prevent lint and debris accumulation inside peripherals may also help maintain their safety and functionality.