When I Switch My Garmin Zumo XT To USB-C, What Wire Size Should I Use?

[Green-ee]

On earlier Garmin devices powered by the USB-C (stepped down to 5 volts) the connection was a weak spot. Vibrations and the small contact area of the USB-C (both male and socket) would lose connection frequently. I ended up with a USB-C 90 degree male plug that could have pressure applied to hold the connection securely. The power connection on the XT is rock solid.

[Chopperbob]

Why not connect to the data USB-min port with USB-mini to USB-C?

Can you run the XT continuously on that port?

[jfheath]

You can - it does so in the car mount. But the vibration on a motorcycle is the real problem.

It is not the socket male/female contact that is the problem as much as the vibration of the wire causing the female mounted on the circuit board that can fail. The mount can break away, or the thin copper tracks on the circuit board can crack.

If you are intent on doing it this way then you have to find a way of making sure that the cable cannot move relative to the socket. Since it sticks out from the back at right angles, I am not sure how you would achieve this.

[Peobody]

It is not the socket male/femal contact that is the problem as much as the vibration of the wire causing the female mounted on the circuit board that can fail. The mount can break away or the thin copper tracks on the circuit board can crack.

I have real-world experience with this. It happened on my first XT. Fortunately Garmin replaced it under warranty. I have since treated that socket with kid gloves.