How to Choose a USB Charger

How to Choose a USB Charger

A USB charger is a device that supplies electrical current to a mobile device to power it.usb charger USB (Universal Serial Bus) connections are commonplace in modern technology, from computer mice and printers to smart phones, tablets and digital music players. They facilitate data transfer between devices and also act as a 5-volt power supply. However, not all USB ports, connectors and cables are created equal. This can lead to frustrating experiences, such as when a USB device flatly refuses to connect with a given cable for reasons that are not always clear.

There is a method to the madness, however. It is important to understand how USB charging works and what factors influence performance. This can help avoid the frustration of a device that does not charge quickly or a USB charger that seems to overheat frequently.

One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a usb charger is its output capacity. A device that requires a high amount of electrical current to operate needs a more powerful charger than one that does not. This is especially true when it comes to chargers for laptop computers, which typically require higher-wattage chargers than desktop computers do.

Another factor to consider when selecting a usb charger is whether it supports the latest USB charging standards. The latest USB standards, including USB-PD (USB Power Delivery) and proprietary fast-charge specifications like Quick Charge from Qualcomm, offer much higher output levels than older USB connectors could support. Some newer chargers have a special chipset inside that automatically detects the type of device that is plugged into them and adjusts the voltage on the data lines to signal to the connected device that it can draw a high amount of current without damaging the device's circuits.

Older USB connectors were limited to around 5 watts of charging power. Newer USB-C ports and cables, however, can deliver up to 100 watts of charging power to some compatible devices. This is a substantial increase in the charging capabilities of USB, making it ideal for laptops and larger tablets.

There are also many different types of USB connectors available to use with USB-C cables. These include Mini-A, Mini-B and Micro-AB styles, which are all thinner than the standard USB connector and designed to better serve the real estate constraints of handheld electronic devices. Some USB cables also include a fifth pin which is used to support USB On-the-Go (OTG) connections. This allows a mobile device to function as a host for other USB peripherals, such as a keyboard or mouse. This is an excellent way to improve the functionality of your mobile devices when using them in the office.