Adapter
lastmod 2022-12-26created 2020-10-056 edits
An adapter (also adaptor) is a coupling tool that connects different electrical or mechanical devices so they can work together.
The connecting part is made with a friction-based spring mechanism or machined with threads so that it does not come loose easily.
- An electrical adapter is a device that lets you plug a differently shaped plug into a different voltage or outlet.
- In water, gas, and similar systems, it is a device that connects pipes of different shapes.
- Fiber optic adapter, network adapter
AC-to-DC adapters
An AC-to-DC power supply adapts electricity from household mains voltage (either 120 or 230 volts AC) to low-voltage DC suitable for powering consumer electronics. Small, detached power supplies for consumer electronics are called AC adapters, or variously power bricks, wall warts, or chargers.
Troubleshooting
What if the adapter amplifier is different?
The A must not be lower than the rating. Higher is not a problem. Current in A is the unit of how much electricity flows. So if the adapter cannot supply the A that the load requires, a voltage drop or load reset occurs and the device cannot operate normally. Conversely, even if the adapter can supply more than the A the load requires, the load only draws as much current as it uses, so in most cases it is not a problem. (LED circuits are an exception: without current limiting they draw unlimited current and burn out. Because a diode's electrical resistance is 0...)