Which Adapter Requires More Watts for My Device?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on determining the wattage requirements for two electrical adapters for a device. The first adapter provides 230VAC at 20mA, resulting in a power consumption of 4600mW, while the second adapter supplies 6.5VDC at 600mA, equating to 3900mW. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding both AC and DC power calculations, emphasizing the role of the power factor in AC systems. Additionally, the need for a suitable voltage converter for use in different regions is addressed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical power calculations (Watts = Volts x Amps)
  • Knowledge of AC and DC voltage characteristics
  • Familiarity with electrical adapter specifications
  • Basic concepts of power factor in AC circuits
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  • Research how to calculate power factor in AC circuits
  • Learn about voltage converters and their specifications
  • Explore the differences between AC and DC power supplies
  • Investigate the implications of using adapters with different voltage and current ratings
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Electronics enthusiasts, electrical engineers, and anyone needing to understand power requirements for electrical devices and adapters.

Latvian
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If I have 2 electrical adapters for a specific device, which has the following information on them:

1- 230va/50hz/20mA
4vdc/150mA

2- 230vac/50-60hz/65mA
6.5vdc/600mA
ps66/2061 IP40
IEC60950 T45/E

How can I know, how many watts each of them require?

I know that the watt = Volt x Amp. but I have problems converting the units and getting the final accurate result.

Please help.

Thank you
 
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(1 Volt)*(1 mA) = 1 mWatt
 
Consider problem 1. The appliance can be either connected to AC 230 V at 50 Hz, and 20 mA should flow. P = 230*20 mW = 4600 mW.

But if it's connected to 4 V DC, the current is 150 mA, and the power drawn is 600 mW.

How can the same appliance draw different power if it is to function properly? Unless, there is the cos phi factor in the AC, which decreases the power in AC.
 
Last edited:
Thank you gouys for your reply and help.

Shooting star, regarding your question. I don't really know. I have just copied what was written on the adapter. It's an adapter for a IP phone which is a gift from a friend in Sweden, and I live in USA, that's why am asking about the watt, becasue I wanted to use a converter to convert from the 220-240 volts of Europle to 110 volts of the states.

Thanks anyways.
 
Oh, then you just go and buy an adapter. Ask in the shop. These are very common. The only thing which is still nagging me is that the frequency in US is 60 Hz.

Also, I've never come across 4 V DC. Ask in the shop. If you buy an adapter which gives 4 V DC, that'd be the best. Look for power-in holes and see what they say.
 
Shootingstar,
I suspect that 4VDC @ 120ma is the OUTPUT rating.
 
Integral said:
Shootingstar,
I suspect that 4VDC @ 120ma is the OUTPUT rating.

That does sound most reasonable.
 

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