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iPad Mini Charging

I use my iPad Mini4 for GPS tracking for extended periods of time. I always keep it plugged into an external (5A max output) battery. After around 5 hours use the battery still has ample life left, but the iPad goes into low battery mode and eventually shuts down. The charging iPad can't keep up with the discharge of only having a GPS tracking app turned on.


I use Apple cables and at the point of the iPad's low battery mode the external battery has over half it's power left. Is there a higher amp output battery available?

iPad, iOS 9

Posted on Jan 25, 2023 8:15 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jan 25, 2023 9:24 AM

There's many power banks out there, that should be capable of keeping the iPad charged while being used. Even if the battery was degraded, the power bank should provide enough power to keep it charged.


https://www.amazon.com/portable-chargers-iPads/s?k=portable+chargers+for+iPads

2 replies

Jan 25, 2023 8:50 AM in response to bruce.from.rocklin

The symptoms that you describe suggest a failing battery. Given its age, the battery within your iPad mini4 may be reaching the end of its useable life.


The maximum changing rate of your iPad is 12W (i.e., 2.4A @5V). While connecting your iPad to a high capacity PowerBank may extend autonomy while connected to the external power source, a high-current source that exceeds 2.4A will offer no tangible benefit.


These support pages should help with troubleshooting battery and charging issues:

Charge and monitor the iPad battery - Apple Support

If your iPad won't charge – Apple Support


Troubleshooting generally requires substitution of the Power Adapter and cable for another known-good item. Most models of iPad require a Power Adapter rated at 12W 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 cannot source sufficient power to charge an iPad. Unless explicitly designed for charging connected devices, computer USB ports are typically limited to 0.5-1A @5V (i.e., 2.5-5.0W).


If you continue to 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 Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively and perhaps easier, 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

iPad Mini Charging

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