What is the role of the AC adapter?

What happens if an AC adapter is not used?

If you do not use an AC adapter, you need to include the function to convert AC to DC within the product. It would be no longer necessary to carry the equipment and the AC adapter together, but the equipment itself would become heavy.

Reason why AC adapters are used frequently

The number of steps required to procure components and manage processes, besides the parts required for the power supply circuits, in addition to the parts required for the equipment can be reduced. Purchasing the power supply circuit as a part eliminates the development cost and reduces costs for the manufacturer.

Another benefit of using an AC adapter is that when replacing the AC adapter, even if the power supply circuit breaks down or becomes unusable due to the circuit having a shorter lifespan than the device, it is possible to continue to use the device without replacing the whole device.

In recent years, AC adapters can also be used as a battery charger for equipment that uses rechargeable batteries, which is a further reason why an AC adapter is often used. In terms of convenience from the user’s point of view, by preparing a laptop AC adapter for both the workplace and at home, it is possible to carry the laptop main body without an AC adapter while commuting every day, and the users’ luggage would be lighter.