Charging external usb-c connection type battery from laptop

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Level 1

8 points

Charging external usb-c connection type battery from laptop

I have an external portable USB-C battery pack that I often want to charge from my MacBook when the MacBook is plugged into the wall. Is this possible? The MacBook doesn't seem to want to charge any usb-c type battery packs. I cannot see how to convince the laptop to charge the battery with plugging in different cables, order, and turning on one before the other ect...

Especially when traveling, it's most convenient to only bring one wall USB-C DC adapter and charge the laptop and the portable battery at the same time.

Posted on Aug 30, 2024 8:35 AM

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Answer 1

Aug 30, 2024 11:49 AM in response to kidderdog

The MacBook probably wants to receive USB-C Power Delivery power – not to offer it.

As for charging using the USB-C to USB-A to USB-C hack, USB 3.x provides for host ports to provide up to 900 mA of 5 V power (for a maximum of 4.5 W). If your device is managing to draw 6.8 W from the MacBook, that is roughly 50% more power than you have a right to expect USB 3 to provide.

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Answer 2

kidderdog Author

Level 1

8 points

Aug 30, 2024 8:41 AM in response to kidderdog

Found a hack by using usb-c adapter to usb-a then another adapter from usb-a to usb-c. However this limit the charge rate ~6.8 watts instead of full charging rate battery/cable can perform.

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