STACK #207 Jan 2022

LIFE TECH FEATURE

visit stack.com.au

AGE

ERS & STOR

NKS, CHARG

POWER BA

Wireless charging is a more advanced alternative that’s gaining in popularity. It’s also the ultimate in convenience, eliminating a clutter of cables, adaptors and additional chargers. QI is the universal standard for wireless charging, so first make sure that your device is QI certified and compatible with a wireless charger, and also check the specs for fast charge capability. The simpler and quicker things are when used at school, the better! One of the downsides of some wireless chargers is the need to properly align the charger and device to enable it to fully power up. No problem on a stable desk, but if the device is being bounced about in a backpack, the magnetic handshake between charger and device can be broken. Fortunately, Apple’s proprietary MagSafe technology has solved that problem with easy magnetic attachment that locks on to the device to ensure it stays put and receives a constant and stable charge. Basic wireless chargers offer 5W or 10W charging – the higher the wattage, the faster the charging – while MagSafe chargers deliver up to 15W. However, unless the device being charged also contains magnetic coils, you won’t get a full 15W of power. Designed for use with the iPhone 12, MagSafe is also compatible with Android tech like Samsung’s Galaxy range and Google’s Pixel 5, as well as certain older models and some brands of earbuds – again, look out for the QI logo if unsure. WIRELESS CHARGING

MagSafe chargers can be both practical and aesthetically pleasing: the Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless Charger for Apple MagSafe is an attractively designed stand that charges three Apple devices simultaneously – iPhone 12, Apple Watch and Airpods – and the perfect solution to send the kids off to school with a full tank. For a more portable option, consider the Cygnett Magnetic Charging Cable for up to 15W of fast charging – it’s compatible with MagSafe technology and designed for easy, one-handed operation.

POWER UP WITH USB

The ABC of USB The Universal Serial Bus (USB) has made convenient charging and transferring of data a cinch. But not all USB ports are created equally, so what do those other letters denote? USB-A – The one we all know and the one we always seem to insert the wrong way first. Designed for use with computers, chargers and power outlets. USB-B – A square-shaped connector used for peripherals like printers and external HDDs. USB-C – The current standard, offering high speed data transfer and higher power flow.

From smartwatches and earbuds to phones and tablets, the tech inventory being carted to school is likely to have increased in the last year, which means more devices to be charged for the day. If you’re the type that has a bottom drawer filled with USB power adaptors, or are always without a spare, a USB charging station is the solution – a central power source that will charge multiple devices at the same time. A powered USB charging station is more practical than a USB hub, which connects multiple devices to a computer or laptop but drains its battery during the charging process. USB charging stations deliver 1A or 2.1A power per port (A being the

amount of amps). 1A would suit a smartphone but not a tablet, so it’s best opt for 2A as a minimum. For fast charging, choose a station with high speed ports up to 5A. With a total of 45W, the Cygnett PowerPlus 4-PortWall Charger is a portable power station with 2 x USB-A ports and 2 x USB-C for fast charging. Quickly charge one device or share the power across four devices simultaneously. If your charging needs are less or you simply want a portable alternative to throw in a bag or leave plugged in under a desk, the Cygnett Flow Dual USB Wall Charger has 2.4 amp output for fast charging of two devices simultaneously and will do the job nicely.

22 JANUARY 2022

jbhifi.com.au