Why do computer chargers need those big adapters? Why can’t you just connect the devices to the power outlet with a cable?
In: 6802
Computers have always used power supplies, which convert the high voltage, dangerous AC current from the mains into low voltage, high current DC. computer components run at 5V, newer components at 3.3V or possibly even lower. That is because the components need (DC) current to operate, but the power usage is current multiplied with the voltage, so the higher the voltage the higher the power loss in the form of heating.
So what they did for laptops is to simply move the bulky power supply to outside of the computer, in the shape of an adapter (he bulky block).
Actually the computer might still contain a step down converter, making an even lower, fixed, voltage (possibly at a higher current, if using a switching stabilizer) from the already low DC voltage.
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