Wall charger icon
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Strange Icon on Charge HR
03-24-2018 05:20. last edited on 09-06-2020 20:15 by MatthewFitbit
DebiLR
03-24-2018 05:20. last edited on 09-06-2020 20:15 by MatthewFitbit
My Charge HR is showing an icon that appears as a thermometer. It is thin (thinner than the battery icon) and shows about 1/2 full. This just recently began to reflect on the display. The device itself is fully charged, since I have seen the battery icon immediately after charging it. And would scroll through steps, miles, etc. Then this thermometer showed up.
I only have the Charge HR set up with my mainframe computer. Today I cannot get the device to sync. I am thinking this is all related.
Best Answer
EV Charging Connector Types and Speeds
A guide covering the different types of electric vehicle connectors and charging speeds.
Last updated: Dec 09, 2022 5 min read
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Summary
Similar to phone charging cables, car charging cables tend to have two connectors, one that plugs into the vehicle socket and the other into the chargepoint itself.
The type of connector you need varies by vehicle and the power rating (speed) of the chargepoint.
- Electric vehicles either have a Type 1 or Type 2 socket for slow/fast charging and CHAdeMO or CCS for DC Rapid charging.
- Most slow/fast chargepoints have a Type 2 socket. Occasionally they will have a cable attached instead. All DC Rapid charging stations have a cable attached with mostly a CHAdeMO and a CCS connector.
- Most EV drivers purchase a portable charging cable that matches their vehicle’s Type 1 or Type 2 socket so that they can charge on public networks.
This guide is based on the UK and may not include complete information for all countries. With the exception of Tesla Model X and Model S vehicles to date, which use Type 2 connectors for DC rapids. Adapters that allow to charge these Tesla models via CHAdeMO or CCS connectors are available.
Vehicle side EV connector types
Electric car charging sockets plug into your vehicle and can be thought of the same as the phone-side charging connectors on your Apple or Android phone charging cable. Depending on which phone/car you have, different connectors will fit into your phone/car socket.
Slow Fast Charging
Typically used for top-up charging at home, work and destinations, there are two types of AC vehicle-side connectors.
- 7-pins
- Standard EU connector
- Inbuilt locking mechanism
- Can carry three phase power
Some models of Renault Zoe can draw 43kW, giving 145 miles of range per hour (for the Zoe, 43kW is classed as an en route Rapid charger).
Assumes 60kWh full battery electric vehicle (BEV) with a range of 200 miles.
Tip: Three-phase power is relatively rare in the UK. There are almost no three-phase power systems in homes, but there are some in a few larger commercial buildings. Most public chargepoints are single-phase 7kW devices.
Rapid Charging
Typically used for en route Rapid charging, there are three types of DC car-side connectors. Most DC Rapid charging stations will have cables with both a CHAdeMO and CCS connector attached so you will just have to choose which fits to your vehicle socket. To protect the battery, Rapid chargers do not consistently charge at their maximum power rating.
- High power
- Neat arrangement with 2 x ‘Type 2’ pins
- Standard EU Rapid charging connector
- Only Tesla Superchargers provide DC via a Type 2 connector
Assumes 60kWh full battery electric vehicle (BEV) with a range of 200 miles.
150kW CCS Rapid chargers will become very common, but across the UK most are still just 50kW.
A handful of 350kW CCS chargers exist, however it is not yet common place.
250kW Tesla Superchargers are starting to be rolled out.
Tip: To find out your car’s AC and DC sockets and maximum charging rates, you can visit our vehicle guides.
Chargepoint side electric car connector types
Typically used for top-up charging at home, work and destinations, there is really only one kind of chargepoint socket, though some might occasionally use a traditional 3-pin plug to charge from a wall socket as an emergency backup.
The Type 2 chargepoint socket is universal, and can be thought of in a similar way to the wall socket for charging iPhones or Android phones (i.e. the socket is the same for each, but the cable is specific to the car/phone type).
Slow Fast Chargers
The “Type 2” socket is the Europe-wide, universal socket for charging electric cars. You can charge any type of car from it, so long as you have the appropriate charging cable for your car. much the same as charging Apple or Android phones from a wall socket.
Approx. range per hour charging
7kW (single-phase)22kW (three-phase)
- Universal connector that fits to all standard chargepoint sockets
- Driver brings correct cable with them
- Similar to wall plug for Smart phone charging
Assumes 60kWh battery electric vehicle (BEV).
Rapid Chargers
Most DC units have tethered cables with both CHAdeMO and CCS connectors that match the car-side sockets, so there are no chargepoint-side DC sockets.
What Drains the Most Battery on iPhone?
When it comes to iPhone battery life, it’s crucial to know what can drain your battery the most so you can make Smart choices and keep your device powered up for longer. Here are some key factors that can be major culprits in draining your iPhone’s battery:
- Display Brightness: Keeping your iPhone’s display at high brightness levels can take a toll on the battery. Consider adjusting the brightness manually or enabling auto-brightness to let your device optimize screen brightness based on ambient light.
- Background Apps: Apps running in the background can silently consume power, especially if they use location services or constantly fetch data. Keep an eye on apps and close unnecessary ones to conserve battery life.
- Push Email: Fetching new emails in real-time (push) requires frequent data updates, which can be battery-intensive. Consider switching to fetching email less frequently or manually to reduce the impact on the battery.
- Location Services: Apps that continuously access your location, such as maps or social media, can be heavy on battery usage. Use location services judiciously and turn them off for apps that don’t require constant location updates.
- Push Notifications: Constant push notifications from various apps can lead to battery drain. Disable unnecessary notifications or adjust notification settings to minimize the impact.
- High Network Usage: Poor network reception or using your iPhone in areas with weak signals can cause your device to work harder to maintain a connection, draining the battery faster.
- Graphics-Intensive Apps: Apps with high graphics and animations, such as games and augmented reality applications, can be power-hungry. Limit the usage of such apps when you’re trying to conserve battery.
- Temperature: Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect battery performance. Avoid exposing your iPhone to extreme conditions whenever possible.
iPhone Battery Charging, Essential Tips for Optimal Battery Health
Charging your iPhone battery is a straightforward process that ensures your device stays powered up for all your daily tasks. You can charge your iPhone using various methods, let’s explore some of them.
Using a Charging Cable
- Connect your iPhone to a power source using the original charging cable that came with your device. The cable has a Lightning connector that plugs into your iPhone and a USB connector that connects to the power source.
- You have various options for power sources: a wall outlet with a USB power adapter, your computer using a USB cable, or a wireless charger. Once connected, you’ll see the battery icon in the top-right corner of your screen, indicating the remaining battery percentage.
- The charging time depends on the power source, so it’s essential to be patient. Your iPhone’s battery will gradually charge, and the icon will reflect the increasing battery level.
To keep your battery healthy while using a charging cable, follow these helpful tips:
- Use the Original Charging Cable: Using the official charging cable that Apple provides with your iPhone is the best way to charge your device. It ensures a safe and efficient charging process.
- Avoid Third-Party Chargers: While it might be tempting to use cheaper third-party chargers, it’s best to avoid them. They might not be certified by Apple and could pose a risk to your iPhone’s battery.
- Don’t Overcharge: It’s unnecessary and potentially harmful to leave your iPhone plugged in overnight or for extended periods once it’s fully charged. Unplugging it once fully charged will help maintain battery health.
Using a MagSafe Charger
Here are the steps on how to charge an iPhone using a MagSafe charger:
- Before you begin, ensure that your iPhone is compatible with MagSafe charging. To do this, go to Settings General About, and under the Model section, look for the term “MagSafe.” If you see it, your iPhone supports MagSafe charging.
- If your iPhone supports MagSafe charging, plug the MagSafe charger into a power source, which can be a USB-C power adapter or a wall outlet. This connection will allow the charger to supply power to your iPhone.
- Next, place your iPhone on the MagSafe charger, and watch as it magnetically snaps onto the back of your device. The magnetic alignment ensures a secure and stable charging connection.
- Once your iPhone is on the MagSafe charger, you’ll notice the charging symbol appear in the top-right corner of your screen.
To optimize your MagSafe charging experience, here are some valuable tips:
- Use a 20W or Greater Power Adapter: For faster charging, utilize a power adapter with a capacity of 20W or more. This allows your iPhone’s battery to replenish quickly, especially when you’re in a hurry.
- Center Your iPhone on the MagSafe Charger: For the most efficient charging, make sure to place your iPhone centered on the back of the MagSafe charger. This optimal positioning ensures a strong and reliable charging connection.
- Avoid Metal Interference: To maintain the magnetic connection between the MagSafe charger and your iPhone, avoid placing any metal objects near the charger. Metal can interfere with the magnetic alignment, hindering the charging process.
Using a Qi-Certified Charger
Charging your iPhone using a Qi-certified charger is another convenient and cable-free way to keep your device powered up. To ensure you get the most out of this wireless charging experience, follow these simple steps:
- Before you begin, verify that your iPhone supports Qi charging. Access your device’s settings by going to Settings General About. Look for the term “Qi” under the Model section. If you find it, your iPhone is Qi-compatible and ready for wireless charging.
- Locate your Qi-certified charger, which contains a wireless charging coil, and place your iPhone on it. The wireless charging coil in the charger will create a magnetic field that interacts with your iPhone’s internal coil, enabling wireless charging.
- As your iPhone rests on the Qi-certified charger, you’ll notice the charging symbol appearing in the top-right corner of your screen. This symbol displays the current battery percentage, keeping you informed about the charging progress.
With these straightforward steps, you can seamlessly charge your iPhone using a Qi-certified charger, making charging a breeze without the need for tangled cables.
Understanding iPhone Battery Indications
One crucial aspect that helps us stay on top of our tasks is understanding our iPhone’s battery life. The battery icon at the top-right corner of your screen serves as a crucial indicator of your device’s power status, allowing you to gauge when it’s time for a recharge. Let us explore some iPhone battery icon indications and their meanings:
- Battery Percentage: The simplest and most useful indication is the battery percentage displayed next to the battery icon. It shows the exact percentage of battery power remaining, giving you a precise idea of how much charge is left. To enable this feature, go to Settings Battery Battery Percentage, and toggle it on.
- Charging Indicator: When your iPhone is plugged into a power source and actively charging, you’ll see the charging indicator; a small lightning bolt next to the battery icon. This symbol assures you that your device is receiving power and replenishing its battery.
- Fully Charged Icon: Once your iPhone reaches 100% battery capacity, the charging indicator will be replaced by a “Fully Charged” symbol—a small plug next to the battery icon. This sign signifies that your device has completed its charging cycle and is now ready for use.
- Low Power Mode Indicator: When your iPhone’s battery drops to a critically low level, you may receive a Low Power Mode prompt or see the Low Power Mode indicator—a yellow battery icon at the top-right corner of the screen. Low Power Mode is designed to conserve battery life by reducing performance and limiting certain background activities.
- Red battery icon: This icon indicates that your iPhone’s battery is critically low. You should plug your iPhone into a power source immediately.
Understanding iPhone Battery Health Statistics
Battery Health, a feature introduced by Apple in iOS 11.3 and later, is designed to give iPhone owners a transparent view of their battery’s capacity and performance. It provides a percentage that represents the current maximum capacity of your battery compared to when it was new. For instance, if your battery health shows 90%, it means your battery can hold 90% of its original charge.
How To Check iPhone Battery’s Health
To check your iPhone’s battery health, you can follow these steps:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap on Battery.
- Scroll down and tap on Battery Health.
Interpreting Battery Health Statistics
Here are some battery health figures and what they mean:
- 100%: A brand new battery or a battery in excellent condition will display 100% health.
- Above 80%: A battery with health above 80% is generally considered to be in good condition and should perform well.
- Between 80% to 50%: As the health drops to this range, your battery’s ability to hold a charge diminishes. You may notice a slightly shorter battery life.
- Below 50%: When the health falls below 50%, it indicates that the battery’s capacity has significantly decreased, and you might experience noticeable battery drain and reduced performance.
Listed below, are some factors that can impact your battery health:
- Charging Habits: Frequent charging to 100% and letting the battery drain to 0% can lead to faster battery degradation. It’s better to keep the battery level between 20% and 80% for optimal longevity.
- Extreme Temperatures: Exposing your iPhone to extremely high or low temperatures can negatively affect battery health.
- Background Apps: Apps running in the background can contribute to battery drain. Closing unnecessary apps can help conserve battery power.
- Brightness and Display: Keeping the screen brightness at high levels or using your iPhone at maximum brightness regularly can impact battery health.
- Power-Intensive Apps: Activities like gaming, video streaming, and augmented reality can put a heavy load on the battery, affecting its performance over time.
Generic Use
The house symbol means it’s meant for indoor use only, and the square inside a square means that the mains electricity is double insulated. The X through the garbage can means it should not be disposed of normally but instead recycled with other electronics.
There a few big companies that do the testing that have their own icons. It lends validity to the rest of the symbols if you can call up these companies and verify from a single source if they really do have each certificate.
You’ll most often see the UL symbol. UL is Underwriters Laboratories, which is a safety organization. They have a barrage of standard tests that they will run against the device to make sure that it is safe. In most cases, a UL certificate isn’t required for sale, but if your house burns down and it’s because of a non-UL listed supply blowing up, then the insurance company is going to put up a fight because you weren’t using safe equipment in your home. Many large retailers will require that your device be listed as well, since they don’t want to deal with any potential recalls or lawsuits from bad products. Next to each UL symbol should be a license number.
This is a good point to mention that many of these marks may be fake — I’ve run into that when sourcing USB power supplies for a product. Customs agents are going to see the symbol and may not follow up to see if the appropriate certificate actually applies to that product, so it’s not uncommon to look up a UL listing number and see pictures of a similar product. There’s some sort of balance, then, when investigating a product’s certificates. You want to see relevant certs and make sure they are legitimate, but you can’t check everything you touch.
What Countries Have Tested This Power Supply?
The rest of the symbols are going to be country specific, and there are a lot of countries with strange requirements for testing. Power supplies are one thing, but adding intentional radio emissions, like a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth product, steps it up to a whole new level of testing and certifications that are beyond the scope of this article.
In general, the more certificates you see on a product, the less sketchy it is, and the bigger the company manufacturing the product. Small manufacturers aren’t going to have the money or interest to pursue a lot of certifications, and may be flying under the radar on a lot of their sales. It’s also an indicator that the product doesn’t change frequently, and that they’ve locked down their assembly line. You won’t see the manufacturer removing critical components to shave costs at the expense of safety.
Posted in Featured, hardware, Interest, Original Art Tagged EMC testing, materials testing, power supply, regulations, Safety Testing, standards
thoughts on “ What Are Those Hieroglyphics On Your Laptop Charger? ”
From Wikipedia: “A logo very similar to CE marking has been alleged to stand for China Export because some Chinese manufacturers apply it to their products. However, the European Commission says that this is a misconception. The matter was raised at the European Parliament in 2008. The Commission responded that it was unaware of the existence of any “Chinese Export” mark”
The “China Export” thing is a joke, like that’s what back-alley shops in China stamp on a product so they can export it to Europe.
“They’re the marks of standardization and bureaucracy, and dozens of countries basking in the glow of money made from issuing certificates.” Or just what companies stamp on their chargers when they are trying to clone legitimate AC to DC power supplies and pass them off as name brand or official products. There’s been a number of in depth teardown articles here about how the quality of some of those is amazingly suspect and that’s being generous. Some probably are not half bad though but it’s difficult to tell for sure. Does eBay still basically turn a blind eye to this? They were so eager to open up subsidized “free” shipping from (mostly) China to drive revenue growth that they have let in a whole host of total junk products, these type of power supplies included. Even basic cables and other electronics are surprisingly not only frequently totally counterfeit but many times what the sellers actually send you is actually physically different from the actual photos. Then they ask you to ship it back for a refund. Wait, what?
China Export is a myth, but the fake CE mark is something you will find everywhere, sometimes the spacing is wrong as instead of using the official mark they simply use a home mad copy.
And then other times, like the HP charger in the picture, they use weird spacing even though it is a legit mark, “for whatever reason.” Maybe an intern had to change one of the icons and they weren’t sure about the details. And nobody cared. I find myself being suspicious whenever the marks look wrong, but many of the legit marks are slightly wrong, and many of the fake marks are perfectly reproduced. It is good in the general case to look for things being slightly “off,” but here it is maybe not useful in practice.
The HP charger (in the middle) HAS the legit mark with the correct spacing (The circles are tangent). The 5V one on the left has the counterfeit/”china export” mark.
Spelling errors are a clear giveaway, and more often than not, the Chinese counterfeiters are too retarded to correctly copy the text on the original product. I’ve never understood that; it’s not hard, there are only 26 letters, all easily distinguishable, and it’s just a few words.
Trends in miniaturisation mean that a lot of companies simply compress the CE markings to make space on the product. Plus the Chinese aren’t too bad in getting the spacing right either.
i never took it to literally mean “china export” more just to mean “not a real CE mark” but the sentiment is the same, its not a real CE mark.
“China export” is a joke that someone told and a bunch of people didn’t get, and keep repeating as if it were reasonable. Like the bagpipe, which is still fooling the Scots to this day. The non-conforming CE marks: maybe it’s on purpose, maybe it’s a mistake. Since the CE mark is the manufacturer’s decalaration of conformity, it’s hardly worth “forging” anyway. If you want to put it on your product (and you can stomach the legal liability) you can. Anyway, like Van Halen’s MMs, companies that don’t even bother getting the spacing right are probably not checking the fine points of electrical safety.
Yes, it is joke name for the symbols used to fool importers or just put on because it looks like everyone does it. That doesn’t mean it isn’t real. I have had shipments of hundreds of PSU’s confiscated and destroyed by U.S. Customs before we figured out the problem. That is pretty real.
There might be more to it than that. A company I used to work for years ago was having shipments seized by US customs, but only when they went through a specific airport AND when it included a package for a specific consignee. It stopped after we had a solicitor (lawyer for you American chaps) contact the US Embassy about the matter. No explanation was ever given. Just a formal ‘This matter has now been resolved’ letter. This was before the current ‘All foreigners are terrorists’ nonsense of course. Now the US Embassy would probably just tell them to piss off 🙂
Thanks there Captain Hindsight 🙂 We now have agents in Shenzhen and Guangzhou who check things out and trace back to actual manufacturer.
The agents set up the purchases and check certs, etc. And they are people we know and visit. Still, not a guarantee. It is not unheard of watch a container go onto a ship yet arrive with scrap metal instead of the construction crane you bought. For big stuff like large laser cutters, we have someone inspect the crating and shipping.