USB Connections For Your Chargeable Devices: What You Need To Know
Charging your cell phone or tablet computer is an everyday task for a majority of Americans. You may have several devices, in fact, that need to be charged on a daily basis, or even more often. And, it is likely that your devices use a connector known as a Universal Serial Bus, or USB. However, despite the fact that all USB ports and chargers look the same, appearance, devices can contain different internal configurations, especially as it relates to power distribution. Below is information on USB and what you should know about how it affects your device:
The unique nature of USB
The Universal Serial Bus connector was developed by a consortium of several major manufacturers, including IBM and Intel. These companies were frustrated by the lack of uniformity in how computers and peripherals were joined together, and the USB was created to serve as a common connector that would simplify inter-device compatibility. The resulting product has been wildly successful beyond even what the original developers imagined. It is not only a universal protocol for use with computers, printers, scanners and other peripherals, but it is also the standard connector for cell phones and tablet computers.
Much of the genius of the USB lies in the fact that it is a dual-purpose connector; it transmits and receives data, and it is also capable of carrying electrical current. Mobile device manufacturers capitalize on this by building phones and tablets that need just one cable for charging and data transfer.
The differences between USB standards
Despite its uniformity, there are significant differences among USB power distribution standards and how they interact with particular devices, particularly as it relates to charging electronics. Here are some of those differences:
- Standard connection - this data-capable connection is found on personal computers, and it is capable of providing up to 500 milliamps of electrical power to devices.
- Downstream connection - this USB connection is also found on personal computers; it can provide connected devices with up to 1,500 milliamps of power as well as transfer data.
- Charging connection - this is a different connector from previous ones due to its inability to transfer data. However, it is expressly designed for the purpose of providing electrical energy to its recipient device. This particular standard is often utilized in transformers plugged into wall outlets. According to official USB specifications, this standard is limited to 1,500 milliamps of electrical power; however, manufacturers have exceeded this maximum, with some connectors providing up 2,100 milliamps.
The implications for you
Since there are a variety of USB standards in place, you should understand how this can affect your daily use of devices with USB connections. Here are a few important bits of information to know:
- Amperage can be equal to or higher than need - one reassuring principle to keep in mind is that you cannot damage a device by using a USB charging connection that exceeds what your battery needs. Your battery will only draw the amount of power it is designed for, and the amperage rating is merely the maximum potential. For example, if your device's battery draws 700 milliamps while attached to a charger that provides 1,500 milliamps, the excess capacity of 800 milliamps is available, but not used.
- Never attach a device that needs more amps than are available - it is not safe to attach a device that needs more amps than the USB can provide. This can lead to blown fuses or even ruined electronics. Be sure you understand exactly what your device needs and how much power is available through your USB connection before plugging in.
- The same device can have more than one USB standard - the same computer will often have both types of USB connector, the standard and downstream. For example, a keyboard may have a standard connector while the central processing unit (CPU) has a downstream connector. From a practical standpoint, that means you will likely be unable to charge a device from your keyboard even though it is possible on a CPU connection. Knowing this can help clear any confusion regarding charging problems.
- Some devices may only work with original equipment - if you have an old USB device, manufactured during the first five years or so after the introduction of USB, then there is a likelihood that it will only work properly when matched to its original charger. So you might need a new one from a place like outEDGE Power Products. Developments since then have eliminated most compatibility issues, but keep this in mind if you experience trouble with certain devices.