How Do Wireless Chargers Work?

1. Introduction 

Wireless charging has become ubiquitous in a world that demands convenience without clutter. From smartphone pads to embedded desk chargers in luxury hotels, this technology powers our devices without cords. But how does wireless charging actually work, and what’s behind the seamless user experience? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the underlying physics, engineering, industry standards, and the expertise that Hovell Tech brings to the table.

2. How Wireless Charging Technology Works

2.1 Electromagnetic Induction

At the heart of wireless charging lies electromagnetic induction. A transmitter sends alternating current (AC) through a coil, creating a magnetic field. A receiver coil in your device converts this magnetic energy back to electrical current (via induced voltage).

Key concept: This requires both coils to be made of conductive materials (typically copper) and positioned close enough to allow magnetic flux coupling.

2.2 Magnetic Resonant vs Inductive Charging

  • Inductive charging requires tight alignment and close distance (a few mm).

  • Resonant charging uses tuned circuits to allow energy transfer over longer distances or through thicker materials.

Hovell Tech uses optimized resonant coil designs to support charging through surfaces up to 35 mm thick, ideal for integrated furniture chargers.

2.3 Coil Alignment & Design

Alignment is critical for power efficiency. Common approaches include:

  • Flat pancake coils

  • Multi-layer coil arrays

  • Quadrature coils for under-furniture installations

Our multi-turn coil designs balance coupling and safety for seamless user experiences even under marble or wood surfaces.

2.4 Power Management & Communication

Wireless chargers use Qi protocol (2.1/2.2) which includes data exchange between transmitter (TX) and receiver (RX). Communication manages:

  1. Coil excitation frequency and power level

  2. Foreign Object Detection (FOD)

  3. Thermal control

  4. Charging start/stop signals

Hovell Tech’s intelligent MCU chips ensure compatibility across devices and protect against fault conditions.

3. Technical Standards & Certifications 

To ensure interoperability and safety, wireless charging products adhere to industry standards:

  • Qi Certification (WPC Alliance)

  • EMC / EMI Compliance (FCC, CE)

  • Safety Certifications (RoHS, CB, UL)

Hovell Tech’s chargers are Qi-certified with full FCC/CE/PSE compliance.

4. Key Hardware Components 

  1. Transmitter Coil – Encased in protective housing, carefully tuned with matching capacitors.

  2. Driver Circuit – MOSFET/IC for current switching and resonance tuning.

  3. Controller Chip (MCU) – Manages communication, charging logic, and safety.

  4. Voltage Step-up / Down – AD/DC conversion depending on product type.

  5. Thermal & Mechanical Protection – Heat sinks, PTCs for temperature regulation.

These elements integrate to create reliable and safe charging units—an area where Hovell Tech excels thanks to its in-house R&D team.

5. Design Considerations

When building wireless chargers—especially those used in luxury or public settings—design must balance usability, aesthetics, safety, and manufacturability.

  • Materials: Wood, marble, plastic cases need testing for signal interference.

  • Mounting: Options include adhesive, screw flange, or furniture-integrated inserts.

  • Power Requirements & Efficiency: Optimized GaN or MOSFET drivers ensure low energy loss.

  • IP/Ingress Protection: Up to IP68 for waterproof variants.

Hovell Tech offers tailored design for each use case, from bedside charging pads to concealed hospitality chargers.

6. Long-Distance Wireless Charging Explained

Extending charging range up to 35 mm requires:

  • Higher Q-factor coils to maintain coupling

  • Resonant inverter circuits for deeper magnetic penetration

  • Power management to limit heat

Hovell’s long-distance models (e.g., WCU-L30) demonstrate this technology in real-world settings, integrated in wood or stone surfaces.

7. Performance, Efficiency & Heat Management

  • Efficiency: Typically 70–85%, depending on distance, alignment, and coil design.

  • Thermal Management: SMT heat dissipation, ventilation layers, thermal IC monitoring.

  • Overvoltage and FOD Safety: Detects metal objects and halts power to prevent hazards.

This offers stable charging across 15–35 mm thick materials, ensuring compliance and reliability.

8. Applications & Real-World Use Cases 

8.1 Consumer Electronics

Phones, earbuds, wearables—ideal for fast pads and desktop placements.

8.2 Furniture Integration

Our under-table chargers for offices, hotels, public venues—offering seamless convenience.

8.3 Automotive

Embedded wireless pads in modern vehicles (up to 65 W variants).

8.4 Public Spaces

Airports, co-working zones, and cafés utilize hidden fast chargers to enhance guest experience.

Each environment poses unique technical and design challenges, handled by Hovell Tech through project-specific engineering support.

9. Safety & Compliance 

Wireless charging must pass:

  • Thermal reliability tests (85°C chambers, 95% humidity)

  • EMI/EMC testing for public regulations

  • FOD detection to prevent injury

  • Qi safety protocols

Hovell Tech employs advanced lab equipment to ensure every unit meets strict global legislation and quality benchmarks.

10. Future Trends & Market Outlook 

  • Ongoing rollout of Qi 2.1/2.2 enhancements (faster power, better alignment).

  • Resonant charging for longer range—up to 50 mm in experimental setups.

  • Integration with smart homes & IoT for dynamic charging surfaces.

  • EV charging potentially adopting wireless pads (15 kW+ capacities).

  • Form factor miniaturization and flexible substrates.

With patents and R&D focus, Hovell Tech is actively exploring these innovations.

11. Why Choose Hovell Tech 

  • Over 10 years of wireless charging R&D

  • Patented coil technology

  • Full OEM/ODM services for private branding

  • Global certifications and support

  • Typical sample lead time: 5 days, mass lead time: 30–45 days

  • Comprehensive global after-sales support

12. Conclusion

Wireless charging combines elegant design with advanced physics, enabling cable-free power for modern lifestyles and commercial settings alike.

Hovell Tech brings technical mastery, tailored solutions, and global delivery to help brands, furniture makers, and hospitality sectors adopt this technology seamlessly.

Are you ready to build with invisible power at your core?

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