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Thread ID: 115821 2011-02-05 00:16:00 USB plug as a power supply colmack (2939) Press F1
Post ID Timestamp Content User
1175382 2011-02-05 00:16:00 Is it safe for me to use the mains-to-USB plug (which came with my LG Optimus phone, and is used when recharging it) to recharge my mp3 player, which normally plugs into a computer USB port to recharge?

My feeling is that it would be OK to do this, but I'd like some reassurance from someone more knowledgeable than me before I try, in case I fry my mp3 player!
colmack (2939)
1175383 2011-02-05 00:40:00 USB2 connectors conform to a worldwide standard for shape and size of plugs and sockets. Wiring for data and voltage are standardised so it should be safe to do what you are asking.

NB. There are differences between USB2 and USB3 connectors.
bluenose (14548)
1175384 2011-02-05 01:01:00 If the plug fits your MP3 socket it will be fine. They all conform to the standards as bluenose has said. I mix and match mine freely, the darned things seem to breed so short of tagging them I never know which is which anyway.

Cheers

Billy 8-{)
Billy T (70)
1175385 2011-02-05 01:15:00 Thanks for setting my mind at rest! colmack (2939)
1175386 2011-02-05 02:40:00 Note not all actually work. Depends on the requirements of the device. I got a bluetooth headset that has a USB charger. It obviously does not put out enough current as it will not charge my iPhone through its USB cable. However another one that is rated as higher amps does work. veldthui (15543)
1175387 2011-02-05 04:57:00 All USB ports on a computer have to supply up to 500mA.

However as Veldthui said, a custom charger for a certain device may supply less than this and be unsuitable for another device which needs a higher current for charging.

Cheap ones may get overloaded and damaged.
Agent_24 (57)
1175388 2011-02-05 17:29:00 Edit: Misread something. Cato (6936)
1175389 2011-02-06 21:50:00 Also note that some USB chargers output way higher amperage than the standard USB spec (I have one in my car that outputs 2 amps) which, depending on the device, means that you can charge faster. Deimos (5715)
1175390 2011-02-06 22:23:00 A curious exception to the above. The Sony eReader refuses to charge from one of these adapters. It puts up a message to the effect that "this is not a Sony charger" and refuses to charge.

You have to pay out for a Sony charger, which consists of a mains adapter with a USB cable. Piracy is alive and well.
Jayess64 (8703)
1175391 2011-02-06 22:36:00 This is quite interesting vimeo.com Agent_24 (57)
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