Charging
USB Devices Simultaneously….
© 2017 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
CORRESPONDENT
We all own multiple devices such as smartphones,
laptops and tablets that all need charging. NewerTech has come out with a dual-purpose
charger known as the NuPower 60W USB-C
power adapter. This charger can charge two devices at one time. The
dual-port adapter provides up to 60 watts of power to charge the latest USB-C
hardware including many laptops, and a type A port that offers up to 2.4 amps
at 5 volts for mobile devices. The key here is that they must use either the
conventional type A USB connector or the mini type C. In the case of iPhones,
the USB type A to lightning connector cable will work too.
(TIP: MacBook
Pros made in 2015 or later have type C connectors. The 13” models, 2015 or
later, will easily work, however, the 15” version draws more power and thus
will have a slower charging time. It would also be fair to say that when
charging two devices the charging time may be somewhat increased.)
NewTech claims up to a 2x charging rate on USB devices
than conventional chargers. I tested this claim on several iPhone 6’s and found
the charging rate to be the same as that of the Apple supplied charger. NewerTech
advises me that while the USB port can charge USB devices up to 2x faster, it
actually depends on what devices are being charged over USB. An iPhone can only
accept up to 1.6 amps, so with a 1.5 amp charger you’re going to see about the
same speeds as what Apple’s power adapter will do. However, some power banks,
older model phones, and other devices could utilize those faster charging
speeds of up to 2x.
NewerTech says that this charger is Apple certified.
This means that unlike non-certified products you will not see an error message
indicating that it will not work since it meets all the technical requirements.
(TIP:
Apple conducts extensive testing on third
party accessories such as cables and chargers. Such accessory manufactures must
submit their products to Apple for testing in order to receive certification.
Products not certified will usually display an error message to that effect. In
some cases they may still work, but in most, they will not. This is quite often
controlled by a code in the Apple operating system.)
The NuPower
60W USB-C power adapter is a very useful tool since it can charge two devices
simultaneously and in some cases at a faster rate as previously explained. The
need for carrying multiple chargers when traveling could be eliminated. The low
cost of this charger makes it an affordable alternative to OEM units. It even
includes a 6´ AC power cord that is often an optional extra with other brands.
GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★
MSRP: $49.95
Graphic
credits: NewerTech
Bob
Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent,
or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his
points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally
supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other
compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he
feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason
for many superior ratings.
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