A Reddit user recently shared a frightening experience: their Gigabyte M6880X gaming mouse spontaneously caught fire, filling their apartment with smoke and causing damage. The incident raises concerns about the safety of older electronic devices and the potential risks of electrical malfunctions.
The user, u/lommelinn, posted photos on Reddit showing the charred remains of the mouse, burn marks on their desk, and a ruined mousepad. They described finding the mouse “burning with large flames,” which they managed to extinguish quickly. However, the fire left black soot throughout the room, impacting other equipment, including a modular synthesizer.
The Gigabyte M6880X is a wired optical mouse that’s over a decade old. Its age and potential wear and tear could have contributed to the incident. Since the mouse doesn’t have internal batteries, overheating due to battery malfunction is ruled out. Experts suggest a short circuit or degradation of materials within the mouse over time as possible causes.
Gigabyte has publicly responded to the incident, stating they are investigating the matter and have contacted the affected user to offer support. The company emphasized their commitment to customer safety and is working to understand the cause of the fire.
Unlike many PC components that have safeguards against power surges, computer mice typically lack these protections, making them more susceptible to electrical issues. This incident underscores the importance of regularly checking electronic devices for signs of wear and tear. Replacing older devices, especially those showing signs of deterioration, can help prevent similar incidents.
This incident serves as a reminder to be vigilant about the condition of our electronic devices. While most electronics operate safely for years, age and wear can increase the risk of malfunctions. Regular inspection and timely replacement can help mitigate these risks and ensure a safer computing environment.
