iPad Lightning Adapter

Hello,


When using publicly available USB sockets (2A) as in trains and buses, the iPad often goes "ping, ping, ping..." oscillating between charging and not charging.


Sometimes it even charges for a while and then goes into "oscillation mode".

Why is that?

One would expect these devices to be designed to work with such outlets- considering that often no other socket is available anymore these days (which is a good standardisation).


Does anyone know what causes this? 2A should be well enough and is usually at the higher end of what USB chargers usually provide.


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPad mini 4, iPadOS 15

Posted on Oct 23, 2022 11:45 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 23, 2022 12:56 PM

Most recent models of iPad require a Power Adapter rated at 12W (i.e., 2.4A @5V) or greater to reliably charge. 5W Power Adapters intended for older models of iPhone are inadequate to charge an iPad; if the iPad charges at all, charging will be very slow.


Be aware that many computer USB ports and those that you may encounter in public transport settings - while adequate for mobile phones - typically cannot source sufficient power to charge an iPad. Unless explicitly designed for charging high-power devices, these USB ports are typically limited to 0.5-1A @5V (i.e., 2.5-5.0W).


If you experience difficulties when using an appropriate power adapter of 12W or greater, you might be best advised to seek assistance directly from from Apple Support - and request a remote diagnostic test. You can contact the Support Team using the Get Support link at top-right of this page. Alternatively, you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/apple-support/id1130498044


You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad, Power Adapter and cable(s):

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Similar questions

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 23, 2022 12:56 PM in response to cook04

Most recent models of iPad require a Power Adapter rated at 12W (i.e., 2.4A @5V) or greater to reliably charge. 5W Power Adapters intended for older models of iPhone are inadequate to charge an iPad; if the iPad charges at all, charging will be very slow.


Be aware that many computer USB ports and those that you may encounter in public transport settings - while adequate for mobile phones - typically cannot source sufficient power to charge an iPad. Unless explicitly designed for charging high-power devices, these USB ports are typically limited to 0.5-1A @5V (i.e., 2.5-5.0W).


If you experience difficulties when using an appropriate power adapter of 12W or greater, you might be best advised to seek assistance directly from from Apple Support - and request a remote diagnostic test. You can contact the Support Team using the Get Support link at top-right of this page. Alternatively, you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/apple-support/id1130498044


You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad, Power Adapter and cable(s):

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

iPad Lightning Adapter

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.