USB Mains Charger Sockets.

Gramaisc

Forum O. G.
There are sockets with integrated USB charging outlets around now - like this :-
701-thickbox_default.jpg

Will the charger(s) have a standby load, even if it's not charging anything? Or, does the insertion of the USB plug connect it?

Any ideas?

It looks like a good idea, but I don't want it sitting just there ticking over when not required.
 

wmrcomputers

Stafford PC & laptop repair specialist
I have 2 that I fitted myself. Very good piece of kit, but as tek says I do believe they are always on. However, I personally don't worry about standby current. They are stone cold and therefore unlikely to be drawing much IMHO. My only quibble is how quickly the psu will burn out when always on.
 

hop

Well-Known Forumite
They are mostly always on, you might be able to get smarter ones these days which sense if there is a connection.

In terms of the power draw I believe that it is 2 amps which on the cheaper models is shared between the 2 usb sockets. Therefore if you have two devices plugged in each will share the 2 amps and will take twice as long to charge. In terms of wasted power if the background draw is 2 amps then it would cost about £2 per year if you are paying 12p per Kwh.
 

wmrcomputers

Stafford PC & laptop repair specialist
It is physically impossible for them to draw 2 amps when no devices are connected. There will be a residual amount of draw but I would guess very minimal compared to 2 amps at full draw.
 
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