WIRING - ACCESSORIES
USB-A vs USB-C port test
iPhone plugged into the PD 45W USBC port. iPhone gets an immediate 5V/0.5A.
Then the iPhone flips into a new mode of operations taking in this case 9V/1.76A, i.e taking significantly more power into the device resulting in faster charging.
Power up In the meantime, it’s possible to install a Euro Module that will deliver a higher rate of charge. This is not a 13A socket outlet, but a combination plate designed to deliver additional power that can support higher capacity devices. It is a standard 50 x 50 unit and is ideal for charging high performance devices, such as the new MacBook Pro. Offering both USB standards, when a device is plugged into the Euro Module it will negotiate the power output with the charger. For instance, if it’s plugged into the Type C port then it will accept the full 45 watts on offer, or will let the charger know if it requires less. The current and the voltage will adjust to enable optimum charging. The same applies to the 18W Type A socket. A thirsty device that benefits from the Euro Module is the iPad Pro. When plugged into a USB-C port in a standard 13A socket, the iPad Pro is effectively on trickle charge – it’s not able to get the power required for a proper charge as the socket is not fit for this purpose. However, when plugged into the Euro Module it can increase its charge and power up effectively. www.hamilton-litestat.com
“Unlike the early days of mobile phones where each brand had its own unique charging cable, USB-C is set to become standard across new technologies.”
manufacturing electrical wiring accessories, such us, are producing sockets with combined USB-A and USB-C charging ports. These allow existing devices to be charged, but ensure functionality is pre-emptively installed for the next wave in technological development. And it’s these solutions that provide a business opportunity for today’s electrician to stay ahead of demand. Tests also confirmed that there is no issue with power sharing between sockets when charging: if two devices are plugged in then they are both getting the correct and equal charge rather than one taking additional power. However, currently (and with no pun intended!) there are restrictions on the charging capability from a 13A socket. Faster charging needs more power, more rapidly. To enable this, a larger charging module is required on the back of the socket. At present, this is not possible due to the unit needing to be packaged within the restrictions of the standard 47mm deep back box. But as USB-C becomes standard, USB-A ports will become redundant and this will free up space in the unit for larger charging modules that can deliver the power USB-C is capable of receiving.
Product solutions
For contractors looking to offer future- proof wiring accessories to their clients, Hamilton’s USB charging products provide transitional solutions. Their sockets with both USB-A and USB-C ports provide charging to new and legacy devices, while the 45W Type C / 18W Type A Euro Module delivers the additional current and voltage required of more power-thirsty devices such as the iPad Pro and MacBook Pro. With devices determining the charge accepted, the power provided by these ports will automatically increase as the device’s capability improves, ensuring customers are set for the next charging standard.
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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 43
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