Here's Something I didn't know

Redboots

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Following a thread on Kurviger about a guy that says running Kurviger on Android Auto, drains his phone battery, even though its plugged into the vehicle (2020 VW Krafter).

That's not entirely accurate, unfortunately; you're looking at the technology from a few years ago.

Yes, the original USB standard was fixed at 5 volts. But thanks to the modern USB-C standard and the USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) protocol, that's a thing of the past. Modern USB-C ports can actually deliver up to 48 volts via the so-called 'Extended Power Range' profile (USB-PD 3.1) (for laptops, monitors, or even power drills).

No phone will burn out. When you plug in a device, the safe base voltage of 5 volts is always applied first. The charger and the smartphone then digitally negotiate how much voltage the phone can handle (e.g., 9V, 15V, or more). Only then is the voltage increased. If the device doesn't support fast charging, it safely stays at 5 volts. So, while it's a universal standard, it's an intelligent one that dynamically adjusts the voltage.

When you plug in a device, the safe base voltage of 5 volts is always applied initially. The charger and the smartphone then digitally negotiate how much voltage the phone can handle (e.g., 9V, 15V, or more). Only then is the voltage increased. With the right charging technology, Kurviger has no problem either, and yes, AA batteries draw more power, which is why the charging technology is important.
 
I doubt the 2020 VW has one of the new USB-PD charger outputs. Most vehicles of that era only have USB-A sockets delivering up to 3A at 5V.

Lots of chargers on sale now have USB-C sockets but they do not deliver anything other than 5V at 3A. Then there is a matter of the cables. You need pretty heavy duty cables to use the full potential of USB-PD at 48V as this could be 240W at 5A.
 


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