Wireless charging, also known as inductive charging, works by converting magnetic energy into electrical energy.
Wireless chargers create magnetic fields that electrical devices are able to absorb and convert into electrical energy. Devices capable of wireless charging contain small copper coils, known as inductors, which are able to absorb the magnetic energy from the charger and convert that energy into direct current.
Wireless chargers are plugged into a powered source, usually a USB port or wall socket. When powered current runs across the copper inductor in the charger, it creates an electromagnetic field containing alternating current (AC). When another inductor comes close to that electromagnetic field, the one inside your phone or watch, for example, it completes the circuit and converts the alternating current into direct current (DC) necessary to charge a battery.
Some advantages of wireless charging
- Convenient: No need to find cables, just place your device on a wireless charging pad and you are set to go.
- Nicer Aesthetics: Since there are not wires or even ports to plug those wires in, your charging setup will look cleaner.
- Cleaner: Without the need for cables, and the necessary ports to connect them, there are no holes or crevasses that can trap dirt or dust.
- Better Waterproofing: It is easier to make devices waterproof when they do not have ports or holes that water can get into.
Some disadvantages of wireless charging
- Slower Charging: Although speeds are getting faster, wireless charging is still slower than wired charging.
- More Expensive: Wireless induction charging is more expensive because there are more components involved in making the charging technology work. There are additional electronics and coils in both the device and the charger that make production more expensive.
- Compatibility Issues: Different inductive chargers may not be compatible with all devices.
