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Electric power cords are evolving from traditional connectors to newer designs with features that accommodate modern trends in technology. Some unique features of the contemporary designs include miniature sizes that can fit into small pockets and safe connector technologies that protect human well-being.
Furthermore, modern electric cords are sturdier and can withstand mechanical stress per industry standards. This post explores the five latest electric connector technologies and the features that enable them to meet the increased data rates and demand for better connectivity.
It also provides examples of the latest technologies with modern connector technologies, including vehicles, smartphones, and other electric appliances.
1. Bi-Directional Electric Connectors
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Dual electric cord connectors are devices that carry power from a power source to a single device and from the device back to the power source where it came from. It provides faster connection among the consuming units by ensuring easy energy transfer.
Vehicles use electric bi-directional power transfer connectors as USS (Suction) and as a route to charge the car from the grid and back to the grid to power other devices from the vehicle.
Through the process popularly referred to as vehicle-to-grid (V2G), the EVs can be replaced with movable batteries. The Nissan Leaf EV is an example of a vehicle with a bidirectional connector. It enables owners to use their car as an electricity outlet for their house or store the energy for when it’s low.
2. USB-C Connectors
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USB-C or type C connectors are popular for many modern devices. They charge devices at very high speeds, which gives them an upper hand over older USB connectors in the market.
Some devices that use USB C cables include smartphones, tablets, personal computers, and some household appliances. Unlike previous connectors that could only connect through one direction, type C has a reversible design that allows users to plug in the connector in both directions without caring about the orientation.
An excellent example of a company with USB-C is Apple. The latest iMacs have USB-C ports as a replacement for the old USB-A ports. This transition enables Apple to reduce wastage by developing thinner models without compromising on fast charging or internet speeds.
3. MagSafe Connectors
Apple launched MagSafe connectors in 2006 as an alternative to traditional charging ports. However, they’ve recently released improved versions with safety features and magnetic pull away from the surface that are huge in the market right now.
The modern versions use magnets to connect the power cord to the device. The magnetic connection makes them extra safe and faster to connect to devices. It also makes it harder to disconnect the connector when you pull the cord by mistake.
More modern Macs have MagSafe connectors. They connect to the ports to facilitate charging while keeping the device safe
An example of a Mac that uses a MagSafe connector is the MacBook Pro model. It uses a plug that you can pull easily without crouching down. When laptop users are charging their machines on the go, the task of charging is simplified.
4. Wireless Charging Cables
Wireless chargers are an emerging trend in the electronic connectivity industry. Unlike conventional connectors, wireless chargers use a charging pad to transmit power to a device using electromagnetic energy instead of traditionally plugging the device into a socket.
Remote energy transmission without cables has made wireless charging popular among smartphones and smartwatch users. They’re preferred for their convenience while carrying and convenience when charging.
An example of a recent device with wireless charging cables is the iPhone. Users put their devices on the rechargeable charger without any wired connection. It eliminates the need for any physical connector and provides more space for devices to charge.
5. Smart Connectors
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Smart connectors enable the transmission of electricity to devices. The newer models, particularly those in the IoT (Internet of Things) world, have new features that allow them to do more than deliver electricity. They can integrate with other devices and give remote access to control them.
Such connectors are common in modern home appliances. They connect to a home network, giving users remote control over items inside the home.
For example, smart light bulbs are the latest advancement in the smart connector field. They connect to the home’s network, allowing users to switch the lights on or off from a distance. They even establish timers for when the lights should get on and off, eliminating the need to do it manually.
To Conclude
The development of power cord connectors has made significant steps to reflect the technical advancements in the electronic industry. The features have also advanced significantly to meet the safety standards and users` ever-changing requirements.
The versatility of these modern connectors has also contributed to their popularity. MagSafe connectors, for example, have a magnetic ring that allows easy connection to devices. Other emerging technologies include wireless charging cables that enable fast and seamless charging and transfer of items, especially among IoT devices. As technology advances, power cord connectors keep improving to match the technicality of devices and users’ needs.
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Source: Vietnam Insider