Smartphones and other devices, such as EVs, have become essential aspects of our lives. These examples share one commonality: they have a power source, the battery. The battery is the heart of a device, allowing it to run and sustain daily use without requiring a wired connection to electricity.

With technological development and innovation in simplifying charging methods, the way we charge batteries has also changed over time, with the latest innovation being wireless charging. Wireless chargers work by utilizing electromagnetic induction to charge compatible devices. In some cases, like Tesla vehicles, direct contact is not even required to charge the device.

In practical terms, the majority of modern wireless chargers (especially power banks) are now also equipped with magnetic technology. This feature is very convenient because we only need to attach the device, and charging will begin automatically with precise alignment.

However, behind the portability and convenience offered by wireless charging technology, there are several things you should know, UNDIRA Friends.

Modern batteries made from Lithium-Ion materials tend to be very sensitive to heat and have a delicate ionic structure. Wireless charging devices, which utilize electromagnetic induction, have a major fundamental drawback: their inefficiency compared to wired charging.

The heat generated from long charging durations will reduce battery life and potentially damage the battery in the long term. This is because the ions in the battery, when exposed to excessive heat, will strain the existing ionic structure. As a result, the device and battery will be damaged more quickly and will experience a decrease in their maximum capacity.

Every wireless charger model has a varied design and placement of its inductive coil. This is critical, because the energy transfer via the receiver and transmitter becomes highly ineffective if there is any misalignment between the coils in the charger and the device.

Furthermore, efficiency drops drastically due to physical obstructions (like smartphone cases that are too thick) or even the slightest distance. A third factor is interference; other sources of magnetic or electromagnetic waves in the vicinity can also disrupt the power transfer process.

Although wireless charging offers more practical charging, using a cable is actually better because the current is stable and not hindered by external interference.

This problem of inefficiency and heat in wireless charging is a perfect example of why the study of modern technology and its optimization is so important. It's not just about creating new features, but about how humans can move toward better, safer, and more efficient innovations to make using devices easier.

For UNDIRA Friends interested in the study of electricity and mechanical systems, the Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering Study Programs are the right choice for you. Electrical Engineering students are encouraged to design wireless power transfer systems with minimal loss, while Mechanical Engineering answers the challenges of physical design and heat management (thermal dissipation) to keep devices cool and durable. Furthermore, to foster a spirit of research and innovation, UNDIRA has also established a partnership with IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineering). This allows students to gain a much broader network to develop their research in the future.

Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA) is fully committed to producing young, professional, and competent innovators who can answer these real-world challenges. We don't just teach; we encourage creation. UNDIRA continues to champion innovation, partly by organizing the annual Technofest. This event provides a golden opportunity for students not only to showcase their work but also to receive guidance on patenting it as a recognized piece of intellectual property.

Source of Reference:

Habibah. Z. 2025. PERANCANGAN SISTEM WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER UNTUK PENGISIAN DAYA SMARTWATCH. Universitas Mercu Buana Jakarta

IFixit Youtube Channel - How Wireless Charging Works and Why It's Terrible