Wireless charging has been existing since the late 1800’s. Around this time, Nikola Tesla, an electricity pioneer explained what magnetic resonant coupling was all about. Magnetic resonant coupling refers to the capability to transfer electricity through air by building a magnetic field between a transmitter and a receiver.
However, for about 10 decades, this technology didn’t really have practical applications. It only worked for a few electric toothbrush models. Things are now better these days. Also, there are now various wireless charging technologies being used today. The major aim here is to cut cables from every appliance like smartphones, laptops, and even vehicles.
Wireless charging is becoming popular across several industries like manufacturing, automotive, and medical. This is because it promises to provide enhanced mobility and development that could enable Internet of Things (IoT) devices to receive power several feet away.
A wireless charging device is a piece of tech gear you can have. Furthermore it is very convenient and easy to use. Regardless of where you keep a wireless charger, you can charge your devices effortlessly. Whether it is on your desk or attached to your car’s vent, this charger can make charging very convenient. People even take it for granted since it is very easy.
You may not fully understand what wireless charging does and how it functions. Also, you might use a wireless charger everyday but you are yet to understand its full capability. It is crucial to understand how wireless charging works and other capabilities they offer.
In this article, we will be explaining how wireless charging functions. Also, we will provide some reliable wireless charging phone accessories you can use.
What is Wireless Charging?
Wireless charging is available in a wide selection of phone accessories. A wireless charger is a free station or pad with no messy cables. Also, using this charger entails placing a matching wireless charging device on it. Smartphones like Androids and iPhones can use wireless chargers. These devices can work with wireless charging if there are internal components and tech to help them accomplish such.
As an effective way of charging devices, wireless charging has become popular in recent years. Many people are beginning to know more about wireless charging and how they can use them daily.
The Basics of Wireless Charging
When you hear of wireless charging, it seems like one of those modern developments of 21st century. This is not the case as the basic principle behind wireless charging has been existing before the 21st century.
The science of wireless charging is similar to the resonant inductive coupling process of Nikola Tesla. This scientist used this process to light up his laboratory in the late 19th century. Also, Nikola’s inductive charging created a magnetic field between a receiver and a transmitter. Electricity transmission occurred via the airwaves.
Fortunately, Tesla was able to create the Tesla coil tower that transmitted electricity across a space. He hoped this invention could help to build a wireless power grid one day. This could help him integrated his inductive charging. Although, he couldn’t achieve this before he died, but we are very close to achieving this in our modern world. What he planned to achieve is close to how we use wireless chargers for our phones today.
In our world today, a wireless charging device features an electromagnetic coil. This electromagnetic coil is an induction coil in a charging base that builds a magnetic field which transmits energy to your device.
The question here is how does your phone receive electromagnetic energy? Well, there is an electromagnetic coil in your phone. This coil gets the energy discharged by the induction coil and then transmits that energy back to the battery of your phone. This is exactly how wireless charging works when you place a device on the wireless charger.
Wireless Charging Standards
There are two standards of wireless charging. These standards are the PMA standard and Qi standard. It is important to know how these standard works and the differences between them. Although the two wireless charging standards integrate the same inductive charging, they use different amount if wavelength.
Qi wireless charging
The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) created the Qi wireless charging standard. This charging standard is more common than PMA wireless charging. Also, the Qi wireless charging method is widely integrated inside wireless charging devices. It is highly preferred among electronic device and phone manufacturers. This charging standard features a 100-205 KHz band.
PMA wireless charging
PMA simply refers to Power Matters Alliance. It is a wireless charging standard that utilizes wavelengths between the range of 277 to 357 KHz band.
What is Qi Charging?
In this section, we will discuss how Qi charging works. Qi charging is simply an optimized inductive charging. This charging method enables wireless charging. Also, it can only charge the batteries of compatible devices by integrating induction transfer. Furthermore, there are no separate cables, adapters, or chargers. Your device must be compatible with the wireless pad. All you just need to do is to place your compatible device on the wireless pad.
Qi is known as the standard for wireless charging. Qi is a Chinese word which means “air energy flow.” This word is usually pronounced as “chee.” The Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) developed Qi in 2008. Also, this standard was primarily developed to transmit inductive electrical power over about 1.6 inches.
In 2009, the WPC published the Qi low-power specification. The WPC worked on expanding the specification of the medium power.
System Overview
Furthermore, a Qi system includes:
- Power conversion
- Base station
- Communication
- Mobile devices
Power conversion
The base station has a transmitter which features a power conversion unit. The power conversion unit helps in converting electrical power to wireless power. The receiver in phones has a power pick-up unit that helps to convert back wireless power signal to electrical power.
Base station
This comprises a power transmitter that has a transmitting coil. The transmitting coil produces an oscillating magnetic field. Also, the base stations comprise flat surfaces where you can place multiple devices.
Communication
The control and communication units are in power receivers and there is a technique known as modulation. Also, the receiver in the device switches the modulation capacitor or modulation resistor to modulate the load. Furthermore, the transmitter present in the base station senses primary coil voltage or primary coil current to demodulate reflected load.
Mobile devices
Mobile devices consume inductive power. Also, these devices can be tablets or smartphones. They have a receiver coil that features a power receiver. However, the receiver in the devices provides the battery power. Control and communication units are available in power receivers.
How does it work?
An electromagnetic field transmits energy between two objects. This is similar to the magnetic induction technology in physics. This same method is what inductive charging integrates. As it was earlier discussed, two coils are available. There is one coil in the receiver and the other coil in the transmitter. In the transmitter coil, you can generate a magnetic field with an alternating current. Also, this magnetic field helps to induce voltage.
In reality, the receiver in the phone gets power from the electromagnetic field and then transforms it into electrical current. This will help to charge the battery. There are some mobile device manufacturers that are integrating this standard. These manufacturers include Nokia, Sony, LG Electronics, Asus, and Motorola Mobility among others. All devices having the Qi logo are compatible with wireless chargers.
How to Align the Coils
There are two ways to align the receiving and transmitting coil to ensure power transfer.
Free positioning
This method requires mobile devices shouldn’t be placed on a particular position on the surface of the base station. Also, you don’t need to align the coil directly. However, this method allows the integration of several transmitting coils at the location of the receiving coils. Therefore, it can produce a magnetic field and charge batteries inductively.
Guided positioning
You have to place the mobile device on a particular position on the base station’s surface. Also, this is because the receiver coil is in the mobile device while the transmitter coil is in the base station.
Modes of Wireless Charging
There are two modes of charging Qi receivers. These are resonant mode and inductive mode. Also, the transmitter determines the operation mode.
Inductive mode
This mode considers tightly-coupled systems for inductive charging. To achieve the best outcome, the transmitter should function at a frequency that differs slightly from the resonant frequency. Also, this mode limits the distance between receiver and transmitter to a few millimeters. Furthermore, you can achieve high power efficiency with these tightly-coupled systems.
The coils are tightly coupled when the coils have similar size and their distance is less than their diameters.
Resonant mode
Charging occurs in resonant mode when the system features loosely-coupled coils. Also, there is a decrease in the magnetic coupling between coils when the distance between the receiver and the transmitter coils is more than their coil diameters.
Which is better: resonant mode or inductive mode?
Tightly-coupled system is ideal for heat-sensitive applications since it has low heat production and high power transfer. Therefore, heat-sensitive devices like smartphones will benefit from this system. However, the downside of tightly coupled coils is that they are very sensitive to misalignment.
On the loosely-coupled system transfers power efficiently. Such type of system is ideal for applications that feature electromotive force or tight electromagnetic induction. Above all, your needs determine the type of mode to choose.
Qi Charging power
Qi wireless charging can deliver about 5 watts at the receiver output. On the other hand, with medium power, Qi charging can deliver about 120 watts. Furthermore, the relationship between the receiver and transmitter should occur during charging. Also, without interoperable communication, the charging process won’t commence.
When compared to traditional charging, you will realize wireless charging is slower. However, wireless charging is harmless to humans since it doesn’t emit non-ionizing radiation. Also, this makes it environmentally friendly.
Drawbacks of Wireless Charging
Above all, wireless charging provides a convenient way to charge your phone and other devices. Also, this charging method gives you a free cable environment. You don’t need to worry about cables or wires in your space.
Also, wireless charging offers several benefits. Due to these benefits, there are several phone accessories compatible with wireless charging around us. Also, wireless charging is becoming more popular across industries and in our world in general.
Despite the benefits of wireless charging, there is only one major drawback. The major drawback of wireless chargers is that they don’t perform efficiently like wired chargers. Also, these chargers tend to be slower than fast-charging cable. Although there are ways to prevent inefficiency in wireless charging if you take certain measures.
Distance is a crucial factor too in terms of efficiency and speed. When the receiver of your device is far away from the transmitter of the wireless charger, the charging rate will be very slow. In this scenario, the magnetic field will have to struggle to transfer power to the device. Also, the device has to be directly on the wireless charger for fast power transmission. If it stays at a few millimeters, the charging process may slow down.
This major drawback can easily be prevented. Since you now understand the basic principle behind wireless charging, then you should build a larger transmitter. Also, this may not be as simple as that. If you would be creating a bigger transmitter, this means your phone’s wireless charging receiver must be very large. With a large wireless charging receiver and a bigger transmitter, the charging rate will be faster.
Is Wireless Charging Fast Enough?
If the wireless charging isn’t as fast as when you plug a device directly in the cable, then how fast is wireless charging? Also, what are the things you should expect from the wireless charging device, and is there a way you can make the charging process faster?
First, there is a need to consider that the device’s maximum charging speed is about 10 watts. The average is 10 watts, although you can find some chargers of 15 watts and stronger. Fast chargers are usually something else. Normally, fast chargers can offer10 to 65 watts making use of the Qi standard and Quick Charge Technology.
However, for wireless charging, it finds it difficult keeping up with this speed level. Rather, working with a wireless charger will give some challenges. For example, the materials and physical design, which prevents efficient and proper charging.
Otherwise, its inner transmitting coil will work effectively without any issue. Consider it like this. There was a time when a wireless charger will not work using a phone case. However, these days, this is not a problem. Therefore, as wireless charging continues to gain wide recognition, the efficiency and speed of the wireless charger will keep getting better, regardless of the aligned coils
As of today, you can get different fast chargers that help you charge your device quickly and in no time. Though it isn’t as fast as the direct cable, there are companies that offer wireless and fast chargers, which can reach 15 watts.
What You Should Expect With Phone Cases and Wireless Chargers
Will wireless chargers work with a phone case? Of course, an accessory for wireless charging can also work with phone cases. Moreover, there are caveats and considerations that you must take note of before you buy a phone case.
Bulky cases have become better
For the beginners, the bulky cases may work against you with respect to wireless charging. This doesn’t happen for all thick cases. At times, it becomes difficult for the thicker case materials to come in contact with the inductor of the wireless charger. Moreover, many brands have considered this and have designed thicker phone cases in a special way that ensures they are compatible with the wireless chargers.
Go for Plastics Rather than Aluminum Cases
Metal and Aluminum-backed phone cases could hinder your device from getting the required boost. Although they are robust and durable, the aluminum cases could disrupt the charging. Take note that one of the Iphone models discontinued its aluminum casing or shell to go for a glass backing. This allowed it to conduct a specific charge on the recent wiring charging accessories and devices.
Why MagSafe Phone Cases are Important?
For those who love the wireless charging abilities of a phone, the MagSafe phone cases provide an advantage. What exactly does the MagSafe phone case do? The compatible devices of MagSafe, whether a battery pack or phone case all have different magnets, which helps to snap to the internal coil of a phone for wireless charging.
Due to the fact that MagSafe magnets are usually designed to help snap in place, this makes sure that the phone doesn’t slide off or stray from your wireless charging disc, platform, or whatever stand for wireless charging is provided. In addition, whenever a MagSafe phone case is paired with the wireless charger that is Qi-enabled, you will be able to achieve faster charge.
Unfortunately, just a few phones presently available offer the MagSafe internal coil. These include the Iphone 13 and Iphone 12 series. Let us hope that with time, MagSafe becomes the norm for Android and Apple phones. However, for now, these devices offer unique snapping. Until these, if any of these devices are in your possession, then check out the MagSafe phone cases.
Collection of Wireless Chargers
If you wish to have a wireless connection that is good, then there is a need to consider two accessories. These include a phone case that has been outlined already and a wireless charging accessory. There are companies that offer high-quality phone cases that are designed for connecting the wireless charging device easily to the wireless charger.
Moreover, it ensures a compatible and well-made wireless charger that helps in keeping the internal transmitter coil of your phone on target. You don’t need to worry about your device going off by some millimeters or to fidget with it so as to position it the right way. This is just exactly what a very good wireless charger offers. Below is a wireless charger collection. Let’s consider each of them in detail.
Power Discs
The power disks provide a round and flat pad which rests on a countertop, deskspace, and tabletop. You can place it wherever you please. With other designs, you will be able to add a colorful and beautiful touch and look to your space. Also, you will find the Twinkle design in this Power Disc collection showcasing your phone, as well as a fabric design that is grey in color for a minimal look.
Furthermore, operating the power discs is easy. All you need to do is to drop the device on the pad and then allow it to charge. Regarding charging speed, expect Samsungs and Apple devices to have a value of 10W and 7.5W respectively. This convenient light indicator let’s you know that your device has been properly placed on the pad and it its charging.
FUEL Battery Pack
This FUEL Battery Pack provides a snap and go kind of wireless charging. There’s no need for a tabletop or desk! In addition, with an in-built and strong magnets which helps it work properly with the MagSafe phone cases, this FUEL battery pack can offer fast charging of about 10W and is also Qi-compatible. Moreover, it can offer direct charges and is useful as a power bank featuring a USB-C port as well as lightning cables included.
The FUEL Power Station
The FUEL Power Station is very useful when you want to charge two or more devices. With the presence of three wireless charging pads, then you will be able to boost your Apple Watch, AirPods, iPhone, at once. In addition, it provides a USB-C port for other devices that you might have or the Android device of a family or friend.
Furthermore, an Apple Watch stand has a magnetic layer that helps in positioning the watch and ensuring that it charges effectively. In addition, every area of wireless charging is Qi-compatible and provides quick charging that can reach 15W.
Wired Charging vs Wireless Charging: Which Is Better?
For some years now, people have been using wireless charging and every day, it keeps gaining more popularity. However, have you ever wondered why wireless charging has become so popular? Is it going to take the place of the traditional wired charging method? Let’s consider why wireless charging will most likely substitute wired charging.
Reasons why Wireless Charging may Substitute Wired Charging
Explaining in a simple way, wireless charging indicates that your handset device can be dropped on your charging dock. It then charges without having to plug it in your phone. The process we just explained is much easier compared to wired charging. Let’s consider the benefits that wireless charging have over wired charging.
You won’t have to handle cables compared to the wired charging
Just imagine this situation. You don’t have to plug and unplug any cable whenever there is a need to charge your device. All you need to do is to drop your device on your charging pad, and then it begins to charge without you doing anything else. Furthermore, everything will look neat and elegant. Sure, you don’t have to be worried about the location of your charger or cable. However, not all wires will be gone. The charging base will need a wire to connect to the power supply.
Reduces wear and tear on devices
As we have mentioned before, you don’t need cables for wireless charging. USB ports are not needed either. This means no strain will be placed on the charging port of the phone, charging plug, and cable. In addition, completely dustproof and waterproof cables are possible.
It makes the simultaneous charging of multiple smartphones possible rather than taking different kinds of cables along with you
For people owning different phones, they need to carry different chargers and cables when traveling. However, if these devices can feature wireless charging, then the charging pad will become an option that fits all. In general, the wireless chargers and cell phones from different manufacturers usually comply with the standard of Qi wireless charging. Therefore, just one wireless charger will be able to charge all the Qi-enabled devices.
Transferring Power to your device is safer. This avoids you putting your data and safety at risk
In contrast to plugging a device in, the wireless charging method helps in transmitting power without touching the electrical connectors that are exposed. What this means is that it reduces the possibility of electric shocks and connection failure.
Lots of deaths and injuries are caused by not using Cellphones or cables properly while charging. This sounds scary, but it actually happens. However, wireless charging could be much safer because one you pick it up, it stops charging.
Also, there is a lesser risk linked with plugging inside public USB chargers. One issue with this is that these public hubs for charging could collect some personal data when you aren’t aware. This is one good reason why you should use wireless charging.
Wireless Charging is very neat
Just a few wires can cause your table to become very messy. This also includes the risks of someone tripping over the cables. However, with wireless charging, you have everything arranged in order.
Why is Wireless Charging Not Yet Everywhere
Wireless charging is usually less efficient and slower compared to wired charging
It was discovered that Samsung Galaxy S6 has the ability to charge full within 1.48 hours if plugged and charged over a specific wired connection. However, wireless charging can take 3.01 hours, which is twice the time it takes for wired charging to complete the task.
Also, it was discovered that wireless charging can take additional time to top your phone up and it takes additional power to be able to charge your device completely too.
Wireless charging can cause overheating for your phone, which can bring harm to your battery
Lots of discussions exist regarding the heat of a wireless charger bringing harm to your battery among those who have begun wireless charging of their phones. It has been revealed that wireless charging generates some waste heat. It could even cause overheating for your phone battery in contrast to the traditional cable charging.
A part of this wasted power then transforms into heat and the additional heat will result in more tear and wear on your battery. This causes the battery’s aging to speed up each time you expose the phone battery to very high temperatures.
The wireless charger is a bit expensive compared to the common cables
Visit Amazon, and check the prices for wireless chargers and cables. You will discover that the majority of cables are below $10. Wireless chargers on the other hand cost an additional $20 or less. This difference is quite large.
By now, you know how wireless charging works. You also know its benefits and drawbacks. Each passing day we see more people adopting this new charging method, and only time will tell if the corded method of charging will be completely abolished for this new method. Also, if working with the wireless charging method, make sure that your device is well fitted with the MagSafe magnetic component and also search for some compatible accessories as well.
RayMing Offers Support for Wireless Charging
Rayming is a top company that offers top support for wireless charging PCB control board manufacturing. This top PCB manufacturer will handle the entire wireless charging PCB processing. The Company’s wireless PCBs are useful in different applications. These include computing devices, wireless earphones, automotive, wireless medical devices, and more.
Conclusion
Wireless charging has gradually gained popularity across several industries like manufacturing, automotive, and medical. Also, wireless charging is harmless to humans since it doesn’t emit non-ionizing radiation. Individuals and companies are beginning to know more about wireless charging and how they can use them daily.
With much being discussed, we can boldly say that wireless charging will change a lot in the electronics industry. It will change how people perceive technology. Also, it intends to make things easier for people and the world at large.
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