Understanding the CE4 Electronic Cigarette
The CE4 electronic cigarette, often referring to the clearomizer component, was a foundational and widely popular device in the early stages of the vaping market. It is characterized by its simplicity and ease of use, often bundled as part of starter kits for new vapers.
Key Features and Design
The CE4 is a type of clearomizer, which is a combined cartridge and atomizer. Its typical features include:
- Transparent Tank: Usually made of polycarbonate plastic, allowing users to see the e-liquid level. Standard capacity is often around 1.6ml.
- Top-Coil Design: The heating coil is located at the top of the clearomizer, with long wicks extending down into the e-liquid.
- Non-Replaceable Coil: In most CE4 models, the atomizer coil is integrated into the clearomizer. When the coil burns out or performance degrades, the entire clearomizer unit is disposed of and replaced.
- Wick System: Utilizes silica wicks to draw e-liquid to the heating coil.
- Mouthpiece (Drip Tip): Typically a screw-on or push-fit plastic mouthpiece.
- Threading: Most commonly features eGo threading to connect to compatible eGo-style batteries, though some may have a 510 connection.
Operation and Usage
Filling: The CE4 is filled by unscrewing the mouthpiece and carefully pouring e-liquid down the inside wall of the tank, avoiding the central airflow tube.
Battery Compatibility: It is designed to be used with pen-style batteries, commonly known as eGo batteries. These batteries usually operate with a single button, often featuring a 5-click on/off safety mechanism.
Vaping: Users press and hold the battery button while inhaling through the mouthpiece. The battery powers the coil, which vaporizes the e-liquid.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Simplicity: Extremely easy to fill and use, making it suitable for beginners.
- Affordability: CE4 clearomizers and associated starter kits were generally very low-cost.
- Visibility: The clear tank allows for easy monitoring of e-liquid levels, helping to prevent dry hits.
Disadvantages:
- Performance: Compared to modern vaping devices, the CE4 typically offers limited flavor intensity and vapor production.
- Disposable Nature: Having to replace the entire unit rather than just the coil is less economical and generates more waste.
- Potential for Issues: Prone to issues like gurgling or leaking if not handled carefully or if e-liquid viscosity is not optimal. Top-coil designs can also sometimes struggle with wicking if the tank is not kept sufficiently full, potentially leading to dry hits.
- Material Concerns: Some aggressive e-liquids (e.g., certain citrus or cinnamon flavors) could potentially cause cracking in polycarbonate tanks over time.
Relevance Today
While the CE4 has been largely superseded by more advanced and efficient vaping technologies (such as sub-ohm tanks, pod systems, and rebuildable atomizers), it played a crucial role in the popularization of vaping. It provided a simple and accessible entry point for many individuals transitioning away from traditional cigarettes. Understanding the CE4 offers insight into the evolution of vaping device technology.
