[geeks] How to avoid counterfit gadgets?

[microcode at zoho.com]

On Tue, Feb 04, 2014 at 08:48:03AM -0500, hike wrote:

> As for batteries, the USA has mandated the really bad stuff out of
> batteries.  Stuff such as mercury.  USA batteries can be thrown in the
> trash without harming the environment.  If China does not have these same
> standards then these are mercury ridden products and the greatest risk is
> disposing of these counterfeits the same as the USA standards batteries and
> damaging the environment.

That is something I didn't even think of. I mainly buy Duracell for two
reasons. Years ago I tested them against other major battery brands and
the Duracells always lasted longer in my devices. I never encountered any
leaks with them but other brands did. I believe Energizer has gotten a lot
better over the years and may be just as good as Duracell now but I'm happy
with Duracell.

Your point is extremely important. Not just for the environment, but for
people. There are a lot of kids running around and safety definitely
matters. Even for cats...

> I have taken apart a counterfeit AA battery.  It was actually a AAA battery
> inside the AA-size shell.  Since the counterfeit couldnbt delivered the
> same amount of energy, I was defrauded.

A similar issue was noted by the guys in the thread I read about the SD
cards. They weren't the full capacity expected (taking into account the geek
definition of "giga" and the marketing definition) and also had file
integrity issues. It's definitely not just about getting the brand you
expected, but the quality and performance you expect. I'm going to enjoy
watching that video to see what they say about memory cards.