Often a time, a faulty power supply could lead to hardware failure, as well as dangerous situations, like a fire. So what does having the exact power supply do for your piece of technology?
Devices Power Supply
Power supply’s are exactly what they seem to be – a source of power, through electricity – for your device. Now, we know that Power is equal to voltage multiplied by amperage – but how does that apply to the devices we use on an every day basis?
Default power supplies for devices are clocked to produce a specific amount of power, for that device. The calculations are near perfect, for the charging capabilities of that device, specifically. What happens when we connect a power supply or charger that wasn’t made for that device? Nothing too wild happens, but there is a greater possibility for your device to become damaged if your power supply is from a third-party, or is not formatted/made for your device.
If you’ve ever purchased a knock-off Apple or Android phone charging cord, you could probably tell that there just isn’t something right; The charge-speed will oscillate, the connection never stays connected, etc.
That’s because you’ve got the wrong power supply!
Coloring Within The Lines
Don’t worry, just because you’re using a knock-off source of power doesn’t necessarily mean your Android or iPhone is going to malfunction, or become damaged. Switch back to a factory-model Android or iPhone charger – that you can find in Apple stores and electronic stores across the globe. They may be pricier, but it’ll save you in the long-run. Various problems can come of faulty power supply’s, and you don’t want to damage your devices.
Let’s talk about Power Supply’s for greater pieces of technology, like a computer. A lot of people buy laptop and computer chargers from eBay, or online at an extremely low cost. However, often times the user will not be aware of the output and input levels of Power, being produced from the power supply/charger.
Power Supply: Input & Output
What is a power input?
Your input is what type of power will be coming into the device. Most forms of input power act as an AC power unit, which stands for Alternating Current power unit. Your AC Power is standardized by what country you live in, and where the power comes from. Our wall sockets here in America give a 120 V residential standard voltage input. We plug our cords (or power supply’s) into these generalized plug-ins, to receive a power input, in order to charge our devices, through an output.
What is a power output?
A power output is the DC power level in which your device receives power, from the adapter, through the outlet. DC stands for Direct Current, and unlike an alternating current, the power only moves one way in a direct current power line. These rules between AC and DC power currents are set in place in order to power devices and hubs accordingly & efficiently.
Remember: Power Supply’s have multiple variables that come with. In order to prevent any harm to your devices or yourself, ensure you’re using the proper form of power supply for your device. Don’t get shocked, jock; become an AV-amateur and read into what you’re plugging in, before you do it.
Drop us a line! Visit the CCS New England Contact Page if you’ve got any questions you think we could answer. If you’re still worried about your power supply, you can check out this complete guide from GroovyPost on how to determine if you’re using the right cord.