USB power supplies (chargers) are available with different current ratings. From 1A per socket to 2.5A. Most of these are 5 volts (the standard for USB devices).
Thus a 2A USB socket, at 5 volts will deliver 10 watts of power (2A x 5V = 10W)
The ipad uses a 10 watt charger as standard. While mobile phones tend to use c 5 watt.
However if a mobile phone was charged using a 10 watt supply it would charge more quickly and not be detrimental to the battery.
Similarly an iPad would be best charging in a 2A, 5V USB but could also charge in a 1A, 5V USB but would take longer to charge.
With regard to USB charging of laptops or computers this is different story.
Laptops need around 3A, 20V to give 60W – this is not available through USB but could become available over time with next generation USB type C developments.
There are British standard guidelines for Understanding the Requirements for Electrical Systems in Furniture. This is BS 6396 : 2022.
The basic rules that apply when installing power into a desk are as follows:
These desk power socket modules also use the Wieland 3 pole connector system, which allow flexibility on power cable and link cable lengths.
All our power modules are tested to British Standards General requirements for electrical accessories. Specification to ensure they are safe. This test includes a 15000-socket insertion test. This is a mechanical test that inserts a live plug into the socket 15000 times to ensure the module is safe over its lifetime.
All CMD modules are also built and tested under strict BSI 9001 regulations and are provided with a 12-month warranty.
All laptops will differ in how much power they need and this will also change depending on whether the laptop is charging its battery. Electrical Safety First states that a laptop may use between 65 – 100 Watts (<0.5A).
All computers will differ in how much power they use. This will be based on the specification of the PC, whether it is on standby or running at full strength.
The average desktop computer consumes 100 Watts (W) and an LCD monitor consumes 100 Watts (W), totaling 200W or 0.86As.
CMD can supply range of on-desk, in-desk and under desk power modules that incorporate USB charging.
In-desk modules are ideally suited to conference tables as when they are not in use the power sockets can be hidden away.
If an in-desk option is not viable, Inca power modules provides power sockets on four faces making it easily accessible to all users.
To calculate the power consumption of an electrical device, first you need to know the current the device is pulling. This is measured in Amps. This information can be found on the device.
Once you have this you multiply the Amps by the voltage (230 Volts for UK) and you have your power consumption.
Example. A laptop is pulling a current of 0.25A. The power consumption of the laptop is 57.5 Watts (0.25*230)
USB is an acronym for Universal Serial Bus.
The Chip on desk USB station has two USB ports.
The Harmony Contour on desk module can also support USB Charging and can be configured to feature numerous USB sockets in multiples of two.
Yes, we supply several different power modules that support a combination of power, media and data sockets within one device. Modules can be selected to sit on, within or beneath a desk or conference table, to suit all power requirements.
The standard voltage for a USB port is 5V.
Wireless (or inductive) charging involves two coils of wire, one in the device and another one in the charger.
An alternating current passes through the coil inside the charger, generating a fluctuating electromagnetic field.
Charging happens when the device is placed inside this electromagnetic field, as it induces a current in the internal coil and subsequently charges the device’s battery.
Wireless charging isn’t as fast as wired charging, however it is great for charging on the go as you don’t have to worry about having the correct charging cables on you.
Wireless, or inductive charging is very safe, so much so that The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) found no evidence of adverse effects on human health when exposed to inductive charging.
The electromagnetic field that the transmitters generate is very small and weak in power and will only operate over short distances. Inductive charging isn’t just used for mobile phones, it is already widely used for many devices such as electric toothbrushes, medical devices etc.
