Wall adapters difference.

Thread Starter

knowledgethirst

Joined Oct 8, 2007
5
Curiousity driven: When two wall adapters ouput same voltage but different max amperage, what is internally different between the two which allows one to output higher current but not the other. Thanks for your time.
 

GS3

Joined Sep 21, 2007
408
If it is a simple wall-wart with a transformer then it just has a bigger transformer (with thicker wires) and maybe larger diodes and capacitor. In other words, everything is just bigger in order to allow for the higher current.
 

Thread Starter

knowledgethirst

Joined Oct 8, 2007
5
pretty good ! Now, how is it possible that lower output voltage adapter can provide higher current than higher voltage adapter ? what is the purpose?
 

Gadget

Joined Jan 10, 2006
614
The physical size of the transformer is related to its total Wattage rating.

so for a transformer rated at 10 watts, if the output is 5 volts, it will be able to supply 2 amps....... if however it has a 10 volt output winding, then it can only deliver 1 amp.
 

niftydog

Joined Jun 13, 2007
95
Now, how is it possible that lower output voltage adapter can provide higher current than higher voltage adapter ? what is the purpose?
The purpose is literally to obtain more current at a given voltage.

For a manufacturer, the power supply must meet or exceed the circuit requirements without being needlessly expensive. Hence why there are so many different types out there.
 

recca02

Joined Apr 2, 2007
1,212
insulation is limiting factor for voltage and heat handling capacity for current.
thus for same power =VI ,ratings are so adjusted that the componenets can handle the amperage voltages are generally not high enough to cause problems relating to insulation.
the amperage ratings on adapters are max current they can safely handle.
 
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