Glossary › Laptop Repair › USB-C Power Delivery
What is USB-C Power Delivery?
USB-C Power Delivery, or USB PD, is the standard that lets a USB-C port carry enough power to charge a laptop. The charger and the laptop agree on a voltage and wattage when you plug in, which is why one charger can serve several devices.
Why wattage matters
A phone charger usually supplies 20 to 30 watts. A thin laptop wants about 45 to 65 watts, and larger models 90 watts or more. If the charger offers less than the laptop needs, it charges slowly, charges only while asleep, or shows a slow charger warning. The wattage your laptop expects is printed on its original adapter.
The cable matters too
Not every USB-C cable can carry full laptop power. Basic cables are limited to 60 watts, and higher wattages need a cable rated for it. A cheap or damaged cable is a common reason a good charger seems to underperform.
Not every USB-C port charges
Some laptops have several USB-C ports and only one or two accept charging. Others have USB-C for data only and still charge through a round DC jack. Look for a small plug or battery symbol next to the port, or check the manual.
When it is a fault, not the charger
If a charger of the right wattage and a known-good cable still will not charge the laptop, the port or the charging circuit may have failed. USB-C ports collect lint and their thin contacts bend. That calls for a port repair, and sometimes chip-level repair on the board.
Related terms
DC JackBattery Cycle CountSwollen Battery