Shahir Ahmed headshot

Electrical Engineering

Research Topic: Microstructural and Elemental Comparison of Cheap vs. Expensive Lightning Connector Probes

Research Poster Located in the Neighborhood Engagement Centers

Research Summary:

Shahir's research aimed to determine whether authentic Apple Lightning connectors differ materially from cheap third-party alternatives, despite their similar outward appearance and functionality. The presence of a platinum coating exclusively on the Apple probes suggests a corrosion-resistant design intended to increase longevity, indicating that the premium pricing may correspond to differences in material quality rather than manufacturing technique alone.