Why do laptops have special adapters in their plugs?
In: 2
It sounds like you’re talking about the “brick”.
It convert the AC power from your socket to DC for the laptop. Electronics generally runs on DC, so it needs converted.
Desktop computers need DC too, but because they’re bigger in general it’s not uncommon for the “brick” to be inside the computer.
Exactly what voltage of DC can vary a bit between manufacturers. Same with the physical plug that goes in to the laptop: each manufacturer may have their own unique design that theyve decided suits them best.
There is work ongoing to standardise this. I believe usb c has been agreed (forced) upon manufacturers. Same with phones.
This has huge advantages for the consumer because we now have one standard plug that fits all our devices. It also reduces waste as we won’t necessarily need to be provided a new charger (and dispose of our old one) when we buy a new device.
Personally I’m a little sceptical of the standardisation process because laptop requirements can differ significantly from phones, and I’m slightly concerned that forcing usb c will be a limiting factor on future units. But I’ve not actually looked in to the technical specs so I hope the people making decisions have thought that far ahead.
Latest Answers