Framework, a modular laptop company, has announced that it will ship its upcoming Framework Laptop 16 with the first 180W USB-C PD 3.1 charger ever developed. The charger was created in partnership with Chicony and is only twice the size of Framework’s 60W power adapter, measuring at 116.6 x 58.2 x 27mm, but offers three times the juice. Despite this, the two-meter USB-C cable is still detachable.
However, the Framework Laptop 16 is not a 180W laptop. The company has said that at maximum performance, with a detachable discrete GPU module installed, it will draw from the battery as well as the 180W wall adapter. To avoid this, Framework recommends plugging in one of the 240W USB PD chargers that it expects will soon be available from third parties.
Framework founder and CEO Nirav Patel has said that although the company hasn’t seen other 180W and 240W USB-PD 3.1 power adapters being announced yet, they anticipate brands launching these soon as the silicon to enable these adapters is now available. The company has used Weltrend WT6676F, ON Semi NCP1622, and JoulWatt JW1556 controllers, as well as GaN switching parts from both GaN Systems and Navitas, which peak at 93% efficiency for this 180W adapter.
The use of GaN is regarded as a significant development, making chargers smaller and more efficient. The technology enables rapid switching, allowing chargers to be smaller and more efficient by using smaller caps, resistors, inductors, and transformers. Smaller capacitors, in particular, are regarded as an important development as they mean chargers require fewer and smaller capacitors, making them smaller and lighter.
In recent times, we have seen proprietary 240W and even 300W solutions for fast-charging phones. But 240W USB-C laptops were a no-show at CES and Computex from what we’ve heard. However, MSI’s Creator Prestige is expected to go to 140W, a year and a half after Apple did so.
The Framework Laptop 16 is part of an increasing trend towards modular laptops where components such as the CPU, memory, and even the screen are designed to be easily replaceable or upgradable, providing users with more control over what they are buying and what kind of performance they can expect. With the Framework Laptop 16, users will be able to swap out parts such as the keyboard, ports, and even the mainboard.
It’s no secret that laptop chargers are becoming more powerful, with Framework tipping powerful 240-watt chargers are on their way. It’s a development that may force other PC makers to follow suit. As universities, businesses, and consumers depend more and more on laptops, the need for powerful and efficient charging solutions will only grow. It’s no wonder then that Framework has worked with Chicony on this project, as it’s one of the top suppliers of power adapters worldwide. As a leader in this market, Chicony’s expertise will be invaluable in bringing more powerful and efficient charging solutions to consumers seamlessly.
