Overheating has long been an enemy of electronic device performance. When devices like tablets and cell phones overheat, their performance slows down, parts malfunction, and the devices may stop working altogether. As we’ve continually come to rely more heavily on these devices, the need for optimal device engineering increases – especially as it relates to temperature control.

At RepairQ, we provide software for repair shops seeking operational improvement. We wanted to highlight this most recent scientific advancement as it relates specifically to the electronics repair shop industry and it may have long-term impacts on some of our partners. Read on for more.

Why Do Electronic Devices Overheat?

The primary reason why devices overheat is that the heat from the device operation must have somewhere to go. If perfected, ideal engineering for these devices would lead to heat transfer occurring at a rapid pace.

Unfortunately, even the best engineers haven’t perfected solutions for efficient thermal conductance (the term for the measurement of thermal energy transfer over a given time). Therefore, electronics can still be prone to overheating despite over a hundred years of related scientific advances in the field.

The Discovery

Late last year, ScienceDaily covered a discovery made by the Georgia Institute of Technology (originally published in Nature Communications). This discovery was the result of experimental approaches to heat transfer in electronics devices. Specifically, they noted an improvement in thermal conductance via phonon mode manipulation.

A Potential Solution

So, what does that mean for electronic devices? According to the article, a greater understanding of these interface modes, and the ability to manipulate them, provides opportunities for enhanced thermal conductance for a wide range of interfaces.

Taking it one step further: “Breakthroughs in this area could lead to better performance in semiconductors used in satellites, 5G devices, and advanced radar systems, among other devices.”  

The Future of Electronics Repair

Advances like device cooling discoveries are exciting for the electronics manufacturing industries but may lead to negative impacts on the electronics repair industry. Less overheated devices may mean less business for repair shops.

But with every advance in technology comes the need for experts in the technology’s operation. It also doesn’t appear that new electronic device developments are slowing down any time soon. Old issues like overheating may disappear, but it’s likely new reasons for repair will follow.

Reverse Logistics Management Software for Your Repair Shop

Looking to improve your process? Our web-based management and point-of-sale software is designed specifically for repair shops. RepairQ’s features include:

• Inventory management assistance
• Automated communications for customer interaction
• Device visibility throughout the repair process
• A point of purchase system that allows for selling and trading
• Secure transaction portals
• CRM-inspired customer opportunities

RepairQ’s interfaces are user-friendly and may be personalized to meet the needs of your business. We also offer annual or monthly billing options. Connect with us online by using the contact form below.