Previously, the presence of wireless charging in a smartphone was considered some kind of unprecedented greatness, now it is the norm. Wireless charging leaves no one indifferent: on the one hand, the thing is quite practical, on the other, there are also problems with it, although not so serious. Unfortunately, not every smartphone still has it. Many people still use old smartphones because they like them. Others buy phones without wireless charging just like that, considering it a whim. My colleague Artyom Sutyagin is a big supporter of such solutions. We'll tell you how to upgrade your smartphone by adding the ability to recharge in any unclear situation.
Figured out how to add wireless charging to any phone
What is wireless charging
In 1894, an induction power system for electric vehicles was developed, but due to the great popularity of the internal combustion engine, this technology was quickly forgotten. In the 1970s, scientists began to propose innovative ways to transfer energy using induction. It was only in the early 90s that chargers based on inductive power began to be used.
Wireless charging stations use the inductive power transfer method. This is done using two electric coils, which are installed in one device and generate current inside the other.
There is one induction coil installed in the platform, which is responsible for receiving and transmitting current. The same coil is located in a smartphone, so if you put the smartphone on the platform, the coils begin to interact and charge it.
This charger standard is called WPC, but more often it is simply called Qi. It turns out that the magnetic field captures both coils and thanks to this charges the gadget’s battery.
The induction power transmission method is a method of wirelessly transmitting energy using electromagnetic induction.
Twist the wire
If we take a long wire and twist it in a spiral, we will get a coil, the magnetic field will be stronger and will be distributed like this:
If we pass a current through this spiral, and place the same spiral on top, then the same current will appear in it, only 20–25% weaker. Losses are associated with the conversion of the magnetic field into electricity, so usually more current is supplied to the spiral in order to obtain the desired output values.
For wireless charging, one such coil is connected through a converter to an outlet, and the other is built into the phone. When we place such a phone on a platform under which there is an energized coil, the phone’s coil will pick up this magnetic field, convert it into electricity and charge the battery.
Which phones support wireless charging?
Currently, many modern smartphones support wireless charging.
- For example, the first gadget from Xiaomi that supported wireless charging was Mi Mix 2S.
- Then two more models were born - Mi Mix 3 and Mi 9, which can also be charged wirelessly.
- The Mate 20 Pro is the first Huawei device to charge wirelessly.
- Apple began introducing this feature into its devices starting with the eighth iPhone model,
- Samsung has supported wireless charging since the Galaxy S7.
It is safe?
The electromagnetic waves through which wireless panels transmit energy are similar to those used to transmit signals from radio stations, cell towers, and Wi-Fi routers.
The maximum power of wireless panels of the Qi standard is significantly higher - 5 watts, but for their range this is nothing. Serious problems can occur with power of 120 W or more.
In general, no one has yet presented evidence that Qi wireless charging can threaten health.
How does wireless phone charging work?
The wireless charging station works by passing current through a magnetic coil made of copper. The current changes its direction quite quickly due to the fact that it oscillates. In this regard, a local magnetic field is created, often changing polarity. The strength of the magnetic field depends on the strength of the current: the stronger the current, the stronger the field.
Inside the device that receives the charge is the same coil. When these two devices are near each other, the magnetic field begins to induce an electric current inside the coil. The current is transmitted through the rectifier, providing the battery requirements, and begins to work, charging the gadget.
Magnetic induction stations
Such wireless stations transmit energy at a distance of 1 cm using a current of 100-357 kHz. Magnetic induction stations have one feature: it will not be possible to charge a device that is made of metal, since the magnetic field will not be able to pass through.
The use of such a device is only possible on devices whose back panels are made of glass or plastic; it is also worth removing the case so that it does not interfere with the process.
This charging standard is used in the latest Apple models, Samsung Galaxy S, Xiaomi, LG, Sony devices.
Magnetic resonance stations
This wireless station standard operates at a distance of 4-5 cm and transmits current with a frequency of up to 6.78 MHz. In this case, two coils are used that are not opposite each other. Gadgets that have the Rezence or AIrFuel standard work on this principle.
- Rezence. This type has been in development since 2012. Due to the increased charging distance, it is considered more convenient compared to magnetic induction stations.
- Airfuel. This device can be hidden under any surface and work simultaneously with different devices. However, it has not yet entered mass production.
What is the Qi standard? What other standards are there?
There are several competing wireless charging standards, designed primarily for phones.
Standards created:
- Qi
- P.M.A.
- A4WP
When buying a phone, you need to know which standard is supported in order to purchase a charger of the same standard. The standards are not compatible with each other.
The most common standard is Qi; it is implemented by many brands producing smartphones.
Qi standard
The standard was developed by the Wireless Power Consortium and is more widespread and implemented in devices by manufacturers of world brands:
- Samsung
- LG
- Motorola
- Huawei
- Sony
- Asus
and others.
On the official website you will find information about the standard and get acquainted with the list of devices using this standard. Many cafes, restaurants and other public places have Qi chargers that you can use for free to recharge your battery.
PMA standard
Similar to Qi, the standard applies the principle of electromagnetic induction. They are inferior in competition and have a smaller list of cooperating companies. The standard was developed by Powermat.
A4WP standard
Unlike the previous two standards, this one uses Rezence technology with a significant number of advantages:
- charges through obstacles (stack of papers, notepad, etc.),
- one platform can charge several gadgets,
- metal objects located nearby do not interfere with the operation of the device.
Having such advantages, it still remains unpopular.
How to use Qi charging
The phone models listed on the official website are equipped with a built-in knowledge base of the Qi standard. They are compatible with chargers with the “Qi” icon. To recharge the battery, the phone must be placed on a special platform, charging begins automatically.
Does the phone get hot?
The back of the device and the wireless charger become slightly warm, similar to when using a cable. Heating occurs at the point where energy is transferred. Therefore this should not be a cause for concern. You need to periodically check whether the device itself is heating up, which may indicate problems with the battery.
How to tell if your phone supports Qi wireless charging
You can find out on the official website of the developer. Find the Products tab, which contains a complete list of models that support this standard.
What is reverse wireless charging
There is practically no difference in the operation of a conventional and reverse wireless charging station, since it works exactly the same. Reverse wireless charging allows your smartphone to transform into a small charger that can be used to charge another gadget without any wires. This feature is supported on the Huawei 20 Pro smartphone and the Samsung Galaxy S10 line.
However, the reverse wireless station is not very fast. It is perfect for emergency charging of a device or wireless headset.
A review of reverse wireless charging can be found here:
Cases
Cases that support wireless charging are produced mainly for the most popular smartphone models. This is due to the fact that they are difficult to produce and are relatively expensive. It is most likely useless to look for them in local electronics stores, but there are a lot of them in online stores like AliExpress.
Advantages and disadvantages of wireless charging
The most important advantage of a wireless station is that it is very convenient to use. The user simply needs to place the gadget on the platform and it will start charging. Also, due to the fact that there is no need to use wires, the cable connection socket in the phone does not wear out and the phone will work longer.
Well, the downside may be that the device will take a little longer to charge. Also, while the phone is connected to a wireless station, the owner will not be able to fully use it.
More details about the pros and cons of using wireless charging can be found at the link:
Vyacheslav
For several years he worked in mobile phone stores of two large operators. I understand tariffs well and see all the pitfalls. I love gadgets, especially Android ones.
Ask a Question
Question to the expert
How long does it take to charge a phone on wireless charging?
The speed of this process depends on the power of wireless charging. On average, it will take approximately 6 hours to fully charge your phone with this charger.
Can I play video games while charging?
Unfortunately, no, as it will not be very convenient. During charging, the gadget is on a special platform and if you lift it, the device will stop charging.
Is it convenient to carry a wireless charger with you when traveling?
Due to the fact that such a device is slightly larger than a regular charger, difficulties may arise. Such charging will take up more space in your luggage.
How to use a wireless phone charger
Wireless phone chargers are very easy to use. You can figure it out yourself, and if you have questions, refer to the instructions.
Charging principle:
- Wireless charging must be connected to a power source: to an outlet or to a computer device;
- The charger platform must be placed on a level and dry place;
- The gadget that needs to be charged is placed in the center of the device, and charging is turned on;
- After charging is completed, the gadget must be removed from the platform.
How to connect wireless charging to your phone
You can connect the wireless charging function to absolutely any device; you just need to slightly improve your personal gadget. To do this, you need to purchase a special plate, which will become a wireless charging receiver. It is hidden under the back cover or case of the device. Once the plate is installed, the gadget can be charged on any wireless charging platform.
How to avoid battery overheating
When the phone overheats, it starts to work slower and the battery deteriorates. In order to avoid this, you must follow several operating rules:
- Do not use the device under the sun for too long. The light and heat from the sun heats up the phone, which can even cause the device to explode. If it gets very hot, then you should not use it until it cools down;
- Close unused programs. Background programs that are not used consume memory and device power;
- Don't use your phone for too long. It happens that a person gets carried away and spends a lot of time on the phone. Without a doubt, this will cause the gadget to heat up.
You can keep the gadget on such a charge until it is charged. As soon as the phone's charge percentage reaches 100%, the energy transfer stops.
How to choose the right wireless charger
When choosing a charger, you need to consider that not all are suitable for certain smartphones. Therefore, the type of device must be compatible with the charger.
What else you should pay attention to when choosing a charger:
- Case. If the gadget is in a thick case, then you need to choose a device that has a larger range. However, if the case contains metal elements, then it will have to be removed while charging.
- Manufacturer. You can find a large number of wireless stations on various Chinese websites. Their low price is justified by their quality: such a mechanism will only work for a few days. It is better to buy charging stations from brands with a good reputation.
- Device size. There are two types: tablets and docking stations. The tablet can be placed in any convenient place, be it a bedside table or the floor in the living room. This is also a fairly cheap option, but when receiving notifications, the phone may move due to vibration. Docking stations are usually installed on the desktop next to the computer.
- The material from which the device is made. Stations made of glossy plastic are inexpensive, but usually such devices quickly wear out and gadgets that are being charged move off them. But matte plastic will be the best choice.
- Input and output power. Before buying a charger, you will need to understand what induction power the phone operates with, and for maximum charging power, you should use a power supply that has the same power.
Bonus: TOP best wireless chargers
Skyway Flash
A small wireless station that allows you to communicate via video. It has protection against short circuits and overheating of the smartphone. Supports all devices with wireless charging function.
Xiaomi Mi Wireless Charging Pad
With this device you can quickly charge your phone without even having to remove the case. Qi standard supported.
Baseus Foldable Multifunction Wireless Charger
Powerful wireless station and smartphone stand. Suitable for video communication. All devices that have this feature are supported.
HUAWEI CP60
The station has high power and does not heat up. The kit includes a high-quality cable. All gadgets that have a wireless charging function are supported.
Baseus Dual Wireless Charger metal
Network wireless station with which you can charge two devices at the same time. All devices with wireless charging functionality are supported.
Bixton QiPad
One of the popular models. With this device you can charge two phones at once, as well as an Apple Watch. There is a built-in automatic shutdown function if there are foreign objects on the surface. The platform does not heat up. All devices that have a wireless charging function are supported.
Samsung EP-PG950
With this device you can charge your phone both vertically and horizontally. The smartphone is securely attached using rubberized plastic. Thanks to a special fan, the platform does not heat up. All gadgets that have wireless charging functionality are supported.
Samsung EP-N6100
This charger is considered the best for 2022. It is possible to charge two devices simultaneously, the platform does not heat up thanks to the cooling system. All devices with wireless charging functionality are supported.
Baseus Suction Cup Wireless Charger
Very powerful and compact station. All devices with wireless charging functionality are supported. All gadgets that have wireless charging functionality are supported.
Hoco CW6 Homey
Small, pleasant to the touch wireless station. There is a charging indicator light. All gadgets that have wireless charging functionality are supported.
4.4/5 — (29 votes)
Inductors
Wireless charging is carried out according to the principle of inductance: a coil installed in the charging base passes current through itself, and the resulting magnetic field is transmitted to the coil in the smartphone. Receiver coils come in several types.
The first type is coils, which are equipped with special contacts and supply energy directly to the battery. They are only suitable for smartphones that have the corresponding contacts inside. Manufacturers of such devices sell wireless charging kits as additional accessories, but you can also purchase cheaper non-original analogues.
The second type is universal coils, which are installed either inside the smartphone or under the case and transmit energy to the charging port. Their obvious drawback is that the port is always busy, which means you won’t be able to charge your smartphone with a cable or connect it to your computer. When choosing a reel, it is important to pay attention to the orientation of the USB connector and the length of the cable. You can see whether this or that coil is suitable for your smartphone on the product description page in the online store. If in doubt, consult the seller - he will select the appropriate option.
Keep in mind that smartphones tend to charge slower with wireless charging than with a cable. This is due to losses during the transfer of energy from one coil to another.
Wireless charging bases are sold in stores and online; they support Qi technology and are universal. When choosing a base, you should be guided by your taste, and also look at the maximum power. The larger it is, the better, but within reasonable limits - 10 watts is enough, but the output will still be about half as much. You should not take a base that is too powerful, as it can cause the battery to overheat. Some sellers sell kits consisting of a charging base and a receiver coil.
After purchasing a wireless charging kit, disassemble the smartphone, connect the receiver coil to the contacts or charging port, and the base to the USB network adapter and place the smartphone on the base. A charging indicator should appear on the base (usually a green LED lights up, but there may be other options), and the battery indicator on the smartphone will show that the device is receiving power. In the case of charging cases, it’s even easier; you don’t need to disassemble the smartphone and connect the receiver to the contacts.
On the one hand, no more confusion with wires. On the other hand, there is a problem with thick cases and overheating of the smartphone.
