Electronic – Why do AC-to-DC adapters have long cables on both ends

accablespower supply

  1. Why do AC adapters have long cable on both ends? I believe that almost everyone using one would want it either directly next to the gadget it is powering (even possibly joined together with it if possible) or next to the power plug (possible made into a single unit with the power plug). It is inconvenient to have it hanging in the middle of a power line. Is this simply a design flaw, or does it have particular reason?

  2. If I were to replace either the AC side or the DC side cable with a very short one, does it have any difference between the two options electronically?

Best Answer

  1. Usually for thermal management or mechanical compliance.

    • thermal -- placing the power supply away from the potentially hot device and away from the wall (better airflow) results in the most efficient operation.
    • mechanical -- large power supplies would block adjacent outlets if connected directly. They can also be heavier than can be safely suspended (hung) from wall outlets.

  2. Basically no... except for the above mentioned reasons.

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