Problem with the loading cable

Loading cable resolved i hope - a watch issue

I originally bought 5x and had the cable issue. Garmin sent me a new cable and had the same issue.
Now they sent me a new watch saying that some units had charging port machined too wide. Garmin indicated that they are holding on to a number of watches and are not distributing them even on their own web site due to supply shortage. Also, all replacement have to authorized by management.
My old watch had a serial# in 03600 range. The replacement serial# is in 18k range.
My first observation was that the cable fits into new watch much tighter and I really have to press hard to have side to side wobble. In my old watch, using the same cable, side to side wobble happens with the slightest pressure.

I did the data connectivity test. Used both watches with both cables, new that just came in, and a replacement I received for my old one.
My new watch doesn't lose connection with either cable unless I press really hard on one side. A significant amount of force is needed, not something that would happen if I just move the watch around.
My old watch loses connection with both cables as soon as I touch the side of the cable connector. The watch needs to stay completely stationary while connected.

To me, at least at this point, the case is closed. It's the width of the machined port (I'll try to measure it with a caliper if I can find a proper one - read: metric).

Sucks for Garmin. I think they can come up with a workaround by developing new cable but this still sucks to have issues with such an expensive watch caused by a cheaply designed cable (I loved the F3 vise-like connector).

There's a bonus to my story. The old watch had a certain stickiness to the start button when pressed. Almost like a fake double click. I thought it was intentional and I didn't like the feeling.
Well, the new watch start button behaves like the rest of them, a nice reassuring single click.
Good luck to everyone.

Problem with the loading cable - what is your serial#?

Hi there,

I wanted to post a thread that completes the other "Problem with the loading cable" thread linked below. That thread, however, has a lot of background info and here I would like to ask you guys to share your serial number range and simply whether you've issue or not.

Garmin indicated to me that the root cause could be a charging port that's machined too wide. I'm trying to figure out whether there's any pattern between early production units and issues. Hopefully it helps you and Garmin.

Original "Problem with the loading cable" thread
https://forums.garmin.com/showthread.php?373421-Problem-with-the-loading-cable

If you can, simply post your Serial# range and whether you've an issue.

Below are my two watches I currently have:

Serial: 036xx
Loading cable issue: Yes

Serial: 018xxx
Loading cable issue: No

Watch serial # 54G002101

I have the issue since 2.90 update but did not have issue prior.
I can charge watch no problem. I'm still inclined to believe it's update related or GC/GE related. My cable fits solidly into the watch.

Yep on the problem

Watch serial ends in 002802. Loses connection very easily. I totally think its a mechanical issue....poorly designed or implemented connector.

My F5X constantly disconnects on my Windows 10 laptop, but works perfectly on my ol junk Win 8.1 machine... Odd....

Connection problem with different cables and PCs
Serial: XXX003950

Connection problems with different cables on iMac
Serial: XXX002708

Samesies

Serial Number: 54G 000585

Charging seems fine, but data is troubled if I move it.

Cable problem here too. :(