A Complete Guide to AC/DC Adapters

What is an AC/DC Adapter?

AC/DC adapters are commonly used external power supply units for electrical equipment which cannot directly draw power from the mains network. They convert alternating current (AC) into the required direct current (DC).

Typically, such devices do not have space within their casing for the bulky components required for this conversion. Swappable external power supply units also provide more flexibility.

Phone and laptop chargers are perhaps the most familiar form of AC/DC adapter. However, they also have a variety of uses in industrial settings - for example, they are used with motors and automation equipment.

AC/DC adapters have many alternative names, including:

• AC DC adapters

• AC/DC converters

• AC chargers

• DC adapters

• AC adapters

• AC adapter plugs

• Battery chargers

• Switching adapters

• Plug-in power supplies

• Power adapters

How Do AC/DC Adapters Work?

So, what is AC power and how is it different from DC power? AC and DC are electrical formats. Alternating current repeatedly changes direction, alternating between the positive and negative poles within a circuit. This is the format used to deliver mains electricity. By contrast, direct current does not change direction. DC is used to transmit electricity along electrical pylons, and it also powers telecommunications equipment, vehicle batteries, and electrical devices with rechargeable batteries.

AC adapters typically feature a boxy central unit containing power-switching circuitry. This draws AC power from the mains and converts it into DC at the voltage required by the device. A power cord then feeds this power from the adapter to the device to charge its battery or allow it to run.

Like most electrical devices, AC adapters are built for compatibility with different levels of power, typically expressed in Volts. They also feature a variety of plugs for use with different socket designs. The UK standard power plug is different from that used in Europe, for example, and different again from the standard US plug.

Most AC/DC adapters are not universal and can only be used to power compatible devices. However, some models are designed to work as replacement chargers for a wide range of devices. These universal power supply adapters are compatible with multiple voltages within a range - for example, 100-240 Volts - and some even feature plugs of different sizes. The latter is also known as star connectors or X connectors.

AC/DC Adapter Types

AC/DC adapters are built to perform the same straightforward task - powering direct current technology within an alternating current environment. However, a variety of configurations and specifications are available. Look out for differing:

• Amperage levels

• Input and output voltages

• Plug types (both input and output connectors)

• Power ratings

• Approvals such as Medical/UL, for example

• Surge/ESD protection

Other variations include:

AC vs DC Adapter

What is the difference between AC and DC adapters? The two terms are normally used interchangeably, but AC adapter emphasises the use of mains power while DC adapter puts the focus on the converted charge used to power the device.

AC adapter is sometimes used to refer to electrical transformers which produce AC at a different voltage to the input, but these models are now uncommon.

Input and Output Voltages

The input voltage of an AC/DC adapter indicates the level of power supplied to the adapter by the mains. This is standardised and varies across different regions. In the UK and the EU, 230V is the standard - much higher than in the US, where the standard is 120V. An adapter with a quoted input level of 100-240V will be compatible with both standards. You may also see the Hertz (Hz) frequency rating of the input voltage listed - i.e. the number of times per second the current changes direction. For example, 240V 50Hz refers to an input voltage of 240V alternating at 50 cycles per second.

The output voltage is the lower level of charge then passed through to the device by the plug-in power supply adapter following conversion to direct current (DC). Widely deployed output voltages include:

• 5V

• 9V

• 12V

• 15V

• 24V

• 48V (in some industrial applications)

Typically, the output voltage of an AC/DC adapter will be quoted alongside its rated amperage - for example, 12V 2A.

FAQs

Is an AC Adapter a Charger?

In many instances, yes. The central function of AC adapters is the conversion of mains current from AC to DC for electronic devices with a rechargeable battery.

Can I Use a Power Supply Unit with Lower Amps?

The quantity of electricity present in a current is measured in amperes, or amps (A), while the number of amps used at any one time is called the amperage. The device to which your adapter is attached will pull in varying amounts of power in response to your activities. The strength of a current is measured in Volts.

When using an AC/DC adapter or charger, choose one that can supply at least the amount required by the device. For example, if the device needs 4.5A to operate, a 6A charger will supply this comfortably, running cool and charging efficiently. However, an adapter designed for only 4A may overheat and become unsafe if exposed to a 4.5A charge.

What is a 12V DC Power Supply?

A 12V DC power supply is an adapter designed to supply precisely 12 Volts of direct current to a device. The voltage supplied must precisely match the requirements of the equipment.

Can I Use a 5V 2A Charger with a 5V 1A Device?

Yes. AC adapters are downwards compatible concerning amperage. A 5-Volt 2-amp charge will run smoothly with a 5-Volt 1-amp device.

Is an AC Adapter the Same as a DC Adapter?

These two terms are often used synonymously, but strictly speaking, they refer to two distinct devices. An AC adapter converts alternating current from one voltage to another, while a DC adapter converts alternating current into direct current. Since the latter is more widely used, the term AC adapter is often used to refer to DC adapters.