What's the difference between AC and HVDC?Updated a year ago
AC stands for Alternating Current and is the form in which electric power is delivered to your home and workplace. Various AC waveforms exist, with Omnicharge adopting a type known as a modified sine wave. This waveform closely approximates the pure sine wave AC found in conventional home wall outlets. Omnicharge's modified sine wave inverter boasts two primary advantages over a pure sine wave inverter:
- Compact Size: The modified sine wave inverter has a smaller physical footprint.
- Enhanced Efficiency: It operates with higher efficiency.
The trade-off of modified sine wave AC is the possible buzzing sound originating from the vibration of Omnicharge's transformer and the internal circuits of your connected device.
If the buzzing sound is a concern, there's no need to worry. Omnicharge also features HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current), a technology that can eliminate this buzzing noise. Nowadays, most modern power adapters accompanying laptops, cameras, and smartphones are designed as switched-mode power supplies. These adapters are tailored for AC usage but can equally function on Direct Current (HVDC). In this mode, the DC current passes through the internal rectifier unchanged. HVDC operation carries two advantages over AC:
- Silent Operation: There is no buzzing noise associated with HVDC usage.
- Improved Efficiency: HVDC mode operates with greater efficiency.
IMPORTANT:
- How do I know if my laptop's power adaptor is a switched-mode power supply?
If you're uncertain whether your laptop's power adapter is a switched-mode power supply, we strongly advise consulting your device manufacturer as a primary step. However, it's worth noting that most modern laptops and smartphones are equipped with switched-mode power supplies and can thus work harmoniously with Omnicharge's 150V HVDC.
- What will happen if I use HVDC with a Non-switched-mode power supply?
HVDC has the potential to damage non-switched-mode power supplies. If you're unsure, we recommend reaching out to your device manufacturer for guidance before proceeding.