Although the energy efficiency of smartphones’ underlying platforms continues to improve, the power consumption needed to operate large, vibrant displays, operating systems with numerous background processes, and a consistently enabled wireless internet module is also increasing.
The capacity of rechargeable batteries experiences minimal growth on an annual basis, frustrating millions of mobile device users who need to constantly recharge. To appease their customers, developers have introduced a solution known as fast charging technology – Quick Charge.
What is quick charging of a smartphone
Many smartphones utilize the Quick Charge technology, which allows for fast charging. This technology was introduced by Qualcomm in 2012 and has since been adopted by various manufacturers. Among these manufacturers are little-known Chinese companies that are gaining recognition in Russia.
Fast charging significantly reduces the time it takes to recharge the battery. While standard chargers typically have specifications of 5V and 1…2.5A, devices with Quick Charge support come with a charger that can handle up to 20V of voltage and 5A of current. The accompanying cord is also designed to withstand this level of current. This sets Quick Charge apart from regular charging methods.
Another notable feature of the Quick Charge specification is the communication between the smartphone and the power supply unit (PSU) through a specifically designed protocol.
One process in charging a phone involves constant communication between the phone and the power supply unit (PSU). The phone continuously sends information about the current battery level, and based on this data, the PSU regulates the current and voltage (output power). This intelligent process allows for the determination of the optimal voltage value.
As the battery level decreases, the maximum power output is reached. Conversely, as the battery level increases, the power supply gives out less power.
The Quick Charge 3.0 specification follows a similar principle. The chipset itself determines the voltage and current strength (output power) based on the current battery charge level. As the battery charge level increases, the voltage gradually decreases from 20V to 3.6V at 0.2V intervals.
The optimal power output is achieved when the battery is completely discharged.Smartphone manufacturers measure the effectiveness of Quick Charge by the time it takes to charge the first 40-60% of the battery since this portion is replenished faster than the rest. If it takes approximately 30 minutes to charge 50% of the battery (depending on the specific device), it will take an additional hour to fully charge the battery.
It is important to note that chargers from different manufacturers are not compatible, so if the original charger is no longer functional, it is necessary to purchase a certified replacement.
Common standards
Every single gadget developer has established their own set of specifications.
Quick Charge
The Charger with Quick Charge adapter is a groundbreaking technology that has reached version 4. QC 4.0 introduces the ability to deliver parallel current to two separate battery banks. This results in faster charging speeds and lower operating temperatures. However, to accommodate this feature, additional contacts are required for the battery as the power circuitry and protection mechanisms become more complex.
The latest iteration, QC 4+, offers even greater charging capabilities. It can recharge a 2750 mAh battery up to 50% in as little as fifteen minutes.
The power supply itself monitors the temperature and power in the MediaTek development. It utilizes a USB-C type connector and incorporates 20 integrated protection systems in the third version of the specification.
Adaptive Fast Charging
The Adaptive Fast Charging adapter is a charger manufactured by Samsung that is compatible with S-series and Note devices. It is an upgraded version of Quick Charge 2 and can work with devices that support this specification. These adapters have a voltage of 9V (15W power), which means that they may not be able to replace every QC device. However, they have enough power to charge a 3000 mAh battery in just 30 minutes.
VOOC Flash Charging/Dash Charge
Developed by BBK. This specification is generated within the VOOC brand (currently there are a total of 7 different versions), delivering a power output of 25 watts with a voltage of 5 volts. Within just 30 minutes, it can charge a 3000 mAh battery up to 75% of its total capacity.
On the other hand, the second standard known as Dash Charge, provides a constant voltage of 20 watts and necessitates the use of the provided cable. In a mere 30 minutes, it is capable of recharging a 3000 mAh battery up to 63% of its total capacity.
The Super Charge adapter for the charger from Huawei is capable of providing 22.5W of power at 5V. This amount of power is sufficient to charge a 4000mAh battery to 57% capacity within a span of 30 minutes.
Super mCharge
There are ongoing efforts by Meizu to develop an impressive Super mCharge technology. The newest iteration of this technology boasts of delivering an impressive 55W of power at 11V.
With such high power, it is possible to fully charge a 3000 mAh battery in just a third of an hour. The best part is that it only requires a standard cable that is capable of handling such a massive load.
Charge your devices faster than ever with the Super mCharge adapter. This groundbreaking technology allows you to charge your phone, tablet, or other compatible devices in record time. With its high-speed charging capabilities, you can power up your devices to full capacity in no time at all. The Super mCharge adapter is designed with safety in mind, featuring built-in protection against overheating and overcharging. It also has a compact and lightweight design, making it perfect for travel or everyday use. Say goodbye to long charging times and hello to the future of fast charging with the Super mCharge adapter.
The mode can be activated or deactivated in the device settings. The simplest way to accomplish this is by following these steps:
- Lower the curtain
- Access the device settings
- Navigate to the "Power" or "Battery" section (varies depending on the firmware)
- Locate the relevant option and enable or disable it (the name may differ from device to device)
To charge your smartphone in standard mode, you can use almost any power source that has a voltage of 5 V and a current within the specified range (typically 1-3 A).
Which smartphones support fast charging
There is no universal standard for rapid charging, nor is there the possibility of utilizing power sources made by third-party manufacturers. This is due to the variations in interfaces and algorithms associated with rapid charging technology, which are continually evolving.
Presently, almost all smartphones, including those in the budget category, are equipped with fast charging capabilities.
Moreover, the corresponding power adapter is typically included in the device’s packaging, although this is not always the case. It is important to exercise caution in this regard.
Manufacturers will go to great lengths to boost sales, but one must find ways to economize.
Whether fast charging is harmful for phones
Every battery undergoes gradual deterioration as a result of using inexpensive and readily available materials.
For the anticipated lifespan of a smartphone, even low-cost batteries are more than adequate; their capacity declines gradually. However, much relies on the temperature conditions and the speed at which the device is charged.
When using an elevated current, which exceeds the manufacturer’s designated value, there is a chance of harming the battery. As for the temperature, that too is regulated by the software.
If the temperature surpasses the allowable threshold, the charging power is reduced or the process is temporarily halted. By refraining from purchasing cheap Chinese power supply units, this issue can be resolved.
According to experts from Meizu, the utilization of Super mCharge for Li-ion batteries over 800 charging cycles leads to a 20% decrease in battery capacity. Similar statistics apply to all types of lithium-ion batteries, and the reduction in lifespan falls well within acceptable parameters.
The second supporting argument comes from a study conducted by California scientists in 2014. Their research demonstrates that rapid charging does not cause any harm to the battery. In both accelerated and regular charging scenarios, the devices were uniformly saturated with elementary particles. These findings were published in the journal Nature Materials.
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