Yo, Geeks: USB-charging devices

Poststructural Pub
1

I now have accumulated a number of devices that recharge by way of connecting a USB cable. I have a couple of chargers that plug into an AC outlet and then have mini USB plugs on the other end to plug into a device and recharge it.

Can I assume that I can safely charge any portable device that recharges via USB with those chargers? In other words, if I have a charger that charges my MP3 player via USB, can I assume it can safely be used to charge my Blackberry?

2

I have a USB device which fits a number of different mobile phones. I don’t see why a blackberry or similar wouldn’t qualify for recharging with this gizmo, as long as the connection fits.

3

sounds good doesn’t it!

ah, no

read the sticker…
Output: 5.0V 550ma
Output: 5.0V 1A

I could only find two…

4

That would help if there was a sticker. There is no sticker. Apart from one that says “EXACT software” (and nothing else). It’s meant for charging mobile phones. And similar. For my money, a blackberry falls into that category. It’s worth a try, I’d say.

5

Ok, I gather that the amperage output from computer USB ports has to be standard, but I guess not so of AC powered chargers with USB connectors.

6

Yep.

If you are powering it then the device needs to be built to work at that voltage & amperage (power)

If the device is battery powered then the battery will determine the voltage & amperage that it will accept for recharging.

7

As long as you use the one with the highest aperage rating as your common
charger, it should be OK. The current rating on AC adaptors is the maximum
amps deliverable. Even if the adapter can deliver more amps than necessary,
the device will only draw as many amps as it needs…

8

The important bit is the USB port on the adapter, not the AC adapter itself. The USB port will adhere to the required standard I imagine and be completely safe to plug any USB compliant device into, otherwise it would be a pretty useless USB charger. Much like plugging a USB device into a USB hub (powered or not) for your PC.

So the answer to the original question:

Can I assume that I can safely charge any portable device that recharges via USB with those chargers? In other words, if I have a charger that charges my MP3 player via USB, can I assume it can safely be used to charge my Blackberry?

Yes.