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13.12.2023 13:22, Gennady Detinich
The portable gaming console Steam Deck has gained wide popularity and many users have begun to notice the pleasant smell emanating from the ventilation holes of the device. Whether jokingly or seriously, owners began to report their desire to sniff the Steam Deck “exhaust” as often as possible, and this became a meme in the community. Finally, one of the users contacted support Valve asking how safe it is?
It’s unlikely that anyone could seriously expect that Valve support would recommend continuing to sniff the warm air coming from an electronic device. In theory, the materials used to make the electronic board, chips, housing, wires and solder must be certified for safe use. But no one can give a 100% guarantee, just as it is impossible to take into account the individual characteristics of each organism. A simple allergy to an unknown substance or an asthma attack can cause serious harm if the circumstances develop in a certain way.
Naturally, Valve support categorically recommended not to sniff the air emanating from a running console, which can be hazardous to health. A Reddit user with the nickname Metapod100 posted a corresponding screenshot with the answer on the forum. At the same time, the company is aware that this could become a meme and, in general, few people will be turned away from continuing the practice of inhaling exhaust from a gaming console.
It is worth recalling that at one time there was a serious struggle to reduce the amount of cadmium and other heavy metals in game consoles from Sony and other companies. Unlike careless players, the regulator understands the harmfulness and consequences of such substances entering the body, which can accumulate there and lead to serious health problems. Therefore, there is no need to succumb to a humorous mood. Sniffing the exhaust from hot electronics is wrong and unhealthy.
