A PC without cables has long been a dream for users, but this dream has been delayed due to the practical needs of connecting peripherals and the power requirements. However, the recent emergence of technologies such as WiGig and wireless charging has increased the possibility of this dream becoming a reality.
How can a computer be completely free of cables?
Analysts believe that two key technologies are crucial to making this dream a reality: WiGig technology and wireless charging technology.
Among them, Intel's flagship technology, WiGig (Wireless Gigabit), is a faster short-range wireless technology that can be used to quickly transfer large files at home. Intel claims that WiGig technology is 10 times faster than WiFi, with data transfer rates reaching up to 7Gbps. In practical use, WiGig technology can not only transmit high-definition video from computers and set-top boxes to televisions without cables, but also wirelessly connect computer devices to peripherals such as fixed desktop interfaces.
On the other hand, the emerging wireless charging technology can finally eliminate the hassle of users needing to carry a power cord. At Computex Taipei 2014 last month, Intel showcased many innovative technologies and products, including a demonstration using a table equipped with magnetic resonance charging equipment to simultaneously charge laptops, mobile phones, headphones, and tablets. The company stated that it hopes devices using this reference design will be officially available for sale in 2016.
Currently, wireless charging technology is mainly divided into two camps: electromagnetic charging and resonant charging technology.
The Qi electromagnetic wireless charging standard adopted by the Wireless Power Consortium is now widely used in smartphones from manufacturers including HTC, LG, Nokia, and Samsung. On the other hand, resonant wireless charging is promoted by two major charging standard organizations: Alliance for Wireless Power (A4WP) and Power Matters Alliance (PMA).
