Running out of battery on your Microsoft Surface? We’ve all been there. And if you don’t have your charger handy, it can feel like a mini-crisis. So let’s talk about how we can charge our Microsoft Surface without the original charger and keep things running smoothly.
One handy method is using a USB-C to USB-A cable. With the right cable, this can work wonders for a quick charge. Sure, it might be slower, but it gets the job done. Alternatively, using a docking station can be a game-changer if you have one at the office or home. It’s not just for expanding ports; it can charge your device too.
Then there’s solar power. Yes, you read that right! Using a solar charger is not only eco-friendly but super useful in a pinch. Imagine basking in the sun and powering up your Surface at the same time.
Contents
Introduction
Let’s face it: our Microsoft Surface devices are essential for work, play, and everything in between. But what do we do when our charger decides to go missing? 🧐
We’ve all been in a situation where we need to power up our Surface Laptop, Laptop Studio, or even our Surface Pro 4 without the trusty wall charger. Today, we’re sharing some solutions to keep your tablet or PC ticking. 😉
First up, it’s crucial to note the power specifications of your device. This will prevent issues like overheating or damaging the battery.
Here’s a quick table to keep handy:
Surface Model | Power Source | Notes |
Surface Pro 4 | USB Charger | May charge slower |
Surface Laptop Studio | USB-C to USB-A Cable | Key for compatibility |
Microsoft Surface 3 | Universal Charger | Check output specifications |
In this guide, we’ll share several tips and tricks. You’ll learn how to use USB cables, portable battery packs, and even universal chargers. These methods can save the day when you’re nowhere near a power outlet. 🔋✨
Remember, getting your device fully charged can be a bit slower with makeshift methods. But these are life-savers in a pinch. Let’s dive in and keep our surfaces powered!
Using A Power Bank
Charging your Microsoft Surface with a power bank can be a lifesaver when you’re away from a wall outlet. This method is especially useful for travelers, students, and remote workers who need to keep their devices powered up on the go.
Choosing The Right Power Bank
First, we need to pick the right power bank for our Surface. Not all power banks are created equal.
- Capacity: Choose a power bank with enough capacity to charge your device at least once. Look for one with 20,000mAh or more.
- Output: Make sure it can deliver at least 5V/2A. Some devices support USB-C Power Delivery (PD), which can provide faster charging.
- Compatibility: Check if the power bank has the right ports, especially if your Surface uses a USB-C port. Some power banks come with multiple ports and adapters, giving us flexibility.
Here’s a quick comparison:
Capacity (mAh) | Output (V/A) | Ports |
20,000 | 5V/2A | USB-A, USB-C |
30,000 | 9V/3A | USB-C PD |
25,000 | 5V/3A | Micro USB, USB-C |
Picking the right power bank ensures we get the best charging experience for our Surface.
Connecting Your Surface To The Power Bank
Next, we need to connect our Surface to the power bank properly.
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Check the Power Bank: Make sure it is fully charged before using it.
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Connect the Cable: If our Surface uses a USB-C port, use a USB-C to USB-C cable. For older models, we might need a USB-A to Surface connector.
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Turn On the Power Bank: Some power banks need us to press a power button to start charging. Other models might start charging automatically.
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Monitor Charging: Keep an eye on the Surface to ensure it is charging. The battery icon should indicate that it is being charged.
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Use It Wisely: Charging might be slower than using a wall charger. Using the device while charging can drain the power bank faster.
Charging our Surface with a power bank is practical and sometimes necessary, especially when we’re out and about. It’s simple if we have the right tools and follow these steps.
Using A USB-C Hub
Ever found yourself in a pinch with a dying Microsoft Surface and no charger in sight? We’ve been there too. Good news, you can use a USB-C hub to keep your device juiced up.
First off, make sure you have a USB-C hub with power delivery (PD) capabilities. This means it can pass power through it to your device while also serving other functions.
A USB-C hub can handle multiple connections at once:
- USB-C cable for charging
- USB-A ports for peripherals
- HDMI for an extra display
Here’s how you do it:
- Connect the USB-C hub to the USB-C port on your Surface.
- Plug your USB-C charger into the hub. Ensure this charger provides the right wattage.
- The other peripherals like a mouse or external drive also connect to the hub’s USB-A ports.
We know it sounds techy, but it’s just like plugging cables into a power strip! Remember to use a USB-C PD charger that matches or exceeds the original charger’s output – no skimping here.
A quick anecdote: One of our team members once used a cheap charger, and it took ages to charge. Lesson learned!
Here’s a table to better understand:
Component | Connection | Purpose |
USB-C hub | USB-C port | Main device connection |
USB-C PD Charger | Hub | Charging power |
USB-A peripherals | Hub | Extra connections |
Charging with a USB-C hub not only powers your Surface but also frees up the Surface Connect port for other uses. It’s a win-win, don’t you think?
Give this method a try next time you’re in a bind, and tell us how it went!
Charging With A Car Charger
Using a car charger is a handy way to keep your Microsoft Surface powered up while on the road. We’ll cover the types of car chargers that work best and the steps to follow for an effective charge.
Suitable Car Chargers
Before charging your Surface in the car, you need the right equipment. A USB-C car charger is the most reliable option. Ensure the charger has adequate wattage. We recommend at least 45W for the best results. This allows for a faster and more consistent charge.
Car chargers like the Batpower 110W come highly recommended as they provide enough juice for your Surface. Use a USB-C to USB-A cable if needed, but prioritize using USB-C to USB-C for efficiency.
Step-By-Step Charging Process
- Plug into car’s power outlet: Start by plugging your car charger into the car’s cigarette lighter or power outlet.
- Connect the charger to Surface: Use a USB-C cable to connect the car charger to your Surface. Insert the USB-C end into your Surface’s charging port.
- Check charging status: Once connected, check if the charging icon appears on your Surface screen.
- Drive safely: Make sure your Surface is secure and drive normally while it charges.
- Monitor battery level: Keep an eye on your battery level to ensure it’s charging effectively.
Using these steps and the right charger, you can keep your Surface ready for use wherever you go.