What is Wireless Charging?

Situations often occur in which it is inconvenient to bring along a regular battery charger for many popular electronic items, such as cell phones, laptop computers, and portable music devices. Solving this issue is what the concept of wireless charging strives to do. As many might guess from the very name, this type of technology allows myriad electronics to charge without having wires attached. Another aspect of the idea that is often convenient for many people is the fact that most wireless chargers are able to charge nearly any device, not just a specific kind. This means that only one charger usually is needed to charge a cell phone, MP3 player, laptop, or other small mechanism that runs on electricity.

Though wireless charging is likely convenient for many, the majority of people do not understand the concept, which usually involves inductive charging. The main power behind this kind of device is electromagnetic induction, which involves making a magnetic field that does not leave the charger like most wired products do. Instead, the field flows parallel to the surface of the charger, spreading magnetic force across the entire device. Due to this action, a thin receiver coil is created within the charger, so that there are two coils instead of the usual one. The small gap between the two coils makes it possible for an electrical transformer to be created, so it does not need an outlet to obtain power.

The obvious advantage of wireless charging is the ability to place electronics on a wireless charger device, rather than take a cell phone charger, laptop charger, or other type of charger everywhere in case the batteries run out of charge. Another less known benefit of wireless charging is that such chargers can be placed near water when necessary. This is because all the parts are enclosed, with no wires sticking out, so some electric razors or toothbrushes come with wireless chargers for the sake of safety. Additionally, the majority of wireless chargers can sense how much power each type of electronic device needs, so batteries are not typically overcharged.

One disadvantage of the ability to charge electronics wirelessly is the typically higher cost when compared to wired chargers. To get the most efficient wireless charging devices, it is often necessary to spend a lot of money, which usually results in the latest charger. Otherwise, older wireless chargers are frequently found to be slower at charging. They also often generate more heat than wired chargers, which can be considered a danger despite the somewhat smaller chances of electric shock when it comes to wireless charging devices.