Powering Up With Cell Phone Chargers and Cradles
Keeping your cell phone powered can be one of the most frustrating things to deal with on a daily basis, particularly when you lead a busy life that doesn't allow you to regularly connect your phone charger to a mains power source. However, that's why companies, such as AT&T, are coming up with more innovative ways for you to charge your cell phone, whether it be through a speaker system or while commuting in your car. You can find a range of different chargers and cradles for your make and model of phone, including Sony Ericsson Xperia phones, to ensure you're never in a position without a battery.
What Is the Difference Between a Cell Phone Charger and a Cradle?
Cell phone chargers and cradles essentially do the same thing—power up your cell phone. While a cradle dock can connect to speakers and your computer, a charger connects to the mains power supply.
- A cell phone charger uses DC voltage to charge the rechargeable battery in your phone and uses an AC/DC transformer to convert the AC voltage from the mains.
- A computer cradle dock connects to a computer through a USB cable and enables the transferring of data both ways between the two devices.
- A speaker cradle dock connects the phone, such as an Xperia, to a speaker and can act as a mini entertainment system, with the cradle already connected to another electrical source, such as a computer or the mains power supply.
What Should You Look for When Buying a Car Cell Phone Charger?
When you commute long distances or are on the road for work, your car may be the most convenient setting for charging your Xperia, or other cell phone. There are various USB car chargers on the market, each of which has its own set of features.
- When you want to charge multiple devices, for instance, in addition to an Xperia, you need a car charger with multiple ports. This is a good option for families on road trips or workers who need a couple of cell phones or to power up an additional tablet so it's ready to go.
- The amount of amps that a charger outputs determines how many cell phones, or other devices, you can charge at any one time. Look for a 4.8A USB car charger when you're powering phones and tablets or a USB charger with at least 2.1 amps per USB port will suffice for charging an Xperia or other cell phone.
- As charging cables are prone to failure, look for those that don't have permanently attached cables, so you won't need to replace the entire charger if the cable dies.
Content provided for informational purposes only. eBay is not affiliated with or endorsed by AT&T or Sony Ericsson.