Console AC Adapter

Description

The Wii U Console AC Adapter is the official power supply designed specifically for Nintendo’s Wii U system. It provides a regulated DC output up to the amperage required by the hardware. Physically, the adapter is a rectangular grey brick with a permanently attached cable that plugs into the Wii U console, and a detachable cord that connects to the wall outlet. It is rated for the Wii U’s power requirements only, meaning it is not interchangeable with adapters from the Wii or other Nintendo systems. The Wii U ran off DC of 15V up to 5A, although other adapters mention as low as 3.3A. This represents 50–75 watts, a jump compared to the Wii’s 12W (12V/1A), similar to the GameCube.

Regional models differ slightly in plug type and voltage compatibility, with the Japanese variant being 100V, 50/60Hz. This unit was sold with Japanese units with the standard Japanese AC plug. With an appropriate adapter these could however be used internationally. It is notable that 15V is a very common profile for modern USB Power Delivery (PD) power supplies. The entire Wii U Console AC Adapter can today be replaced by a modern 65W USB PD charger with a very cheap and simple USB-C power cable. From a future-use perspective this means adaptors only a fraction of the size with proper voltage regulation and system safety can avoid provide a convenient alternative. The Wii U GamePad, which had a separate, smaller but similar looking 5V power supply, can also be replaced by a USB cable.