We all have a box or bag at home where cables that we never use are accumulated. Mobile loaders that no longer serve, cable -free adapters, cables without their corresponding device … we just don’t throw them because we believe they could one day be used for something. And that time has come: There are practical and creative ways to give them a second life.
New uses for old loaders
Reuse old loaders not only It allows to reduce the amount of electronic wasteone of the most pollutants on the planet, but also provides access to useful components for homemade repairs and DIY projects. In addition, it is an excellent way of promoting creativity.
With only an old charger and some additional materials, it is possible to carry out multiple useful projects that They do not require advanced technical knowledge.
Homemade USB loader
This project is ideal for those who have a charger that no longer fits with any device. With a few steps, you can Become a USB energy source suitable for loading rechargeable flashlightssmall speakers or even old iPod or iPhone models.
Materials:
- An old cable charger (the “box” type does not work)
- A female USB connector (available in hardware stores or electronic stores)
- Insulating tape
- Small resistances (they are achieved in electronic stores)
- A welder (if it is the first time it is used, it is recommended to do it accompanied)
Steps:
- Cut the charger cable and carefully peel the two internal cables (usually red and black).
- Connect those cables to the female USB connector, which will allow any standard USB cable to plug.
- Add the resistances to ensure that the devices recognize the load source correctly.
- I isolate all connections with insulating tape.
- The loader is ready to feed small devices via USB.
Energy source for lights or garden sensors
This second project Allows you to use an old charger as a permanent power supply for devices that normally work with batteriessuch as solar lights or movement sensors.
Materials:
- An old mobile charger
- 5 or 6 small diodes (economic and available in electronic stores)
- Insulating tape
- Fine electric cable (old headphones can be used)
- Scissors
Steps:
- Cut the charger cable and carefully separate the two internal threads.
- Connect the diodes in a row in one of the cables (this reduces the voltage to protect the device).
- Join the cables to the device that previously worked with batteries.
- I isolate the connections with tape to avoid water leaks if the device is outdoors.
- You already have a continuous energy source that eliminates the need to change batteries.
An opportunity to recycle with ingenuity
These are only two of the many possible projects to reuse old loaders. Transforming them into home is An excellent way to take advantage of forgotten materialsstimulate creativity and contribute to the care of the environment.
If you decide not to reuse them, remember that the loaders They should not be discarded in common garbagen. The right thing is to take them to clean points or specialized centers in electronic waste recycling.