How do phone chargers work? (thin cable question)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the functioning of phone chargers, specifically addressing the number of wires in the cables and their thinness. Participants explore concepts related to electrical circuits, power delivery, and the construction of USB cables.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why phone chargers appear to have only one wire and how they can be so thin, suggesting a misunderstanding of how circuits operate.
  • Another participant clarifies that phone chargers actually consist of two wires within a small cable, emphasizing the necessity of two wires for electrical flow, or the alternative of inductive charging.
  • A third participant notes that most USB chargers contain four wires in total, with two dedicated to data transfer and two for power delivery.
  • Another contribution mentions that USB cables typically use 24 gauge wire for the power wires, which can handle up to 2A of current.
  • A link to an image of USB cable construction is provided, presumably to illustrate the internal wiring.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that phone chargers contain multiple wires, but there is some confusion regarding the initial question about the appearance of a single wire. The discussion includes varying levels of detail about the construction and functionality of USB cables.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the understanding of electrical circuits and the specifics of USB cable construction may be missing or unclear. The discussion does not resolve the initial confusion regarding the perception of phone chargers having only one wire.

Cheesycheese213
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We're all told how circuits have to be closed and loop back to be able to have the electrons flowing and give things power, so is that the reason most outlet charges have two wires connected? If so, why are phone chargers only one wire, and how are they so thin?
Thanks!
 
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Cheesycheese213 said:
We're all told how circuits have to be closed and loop back to be able to have the electrons flowing and give things power, so is that the reason most outlet charges have two wires connected? If so, why are phone chargers only one wire, and how are they so thin?
Thanks!
They are NOT one wire, they are two wires in a small cable because yes, you need two wires (or no wires if you do inductive charging)
 
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+1 Most chargers are USB and that has 4 wires in the one cable. 2 are used for data and 2 for power.
 
I believe usb uses 24 gauge wire for the 2 power wires which can just about manage to carry 2A.
 
http://www.audiopolitan.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Pangea-Audio-USB-AG-Cable-Construction-Cross-Sectional-View-Audiopolitan.jpg
Pangea-Audio-USB-AG-Cable-Construction-Cross-Sectional-View-Audiopolitan.jpg
 

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