Socket Sense: Yet Another Solution To A Stupid Problem
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto on 02. 8.08
Here is yet another clever solution to a problem that should not exist- accommodating all those wall warts of different voltages and amperages, all in different sizes, all vampires. Sure, it is clever, with sliding outlets and 45 degree plugs, but this is a design and manufacturing problem that the vendors should solve and we shouldn't have to shell out 40 bucks to fix it. ::Socket Sense via Dvice
Two years ago Larry Page of Google complained “I’m going to just plead with all of you, let’s get the power supply problems fixed.” Douglas Adams once famously proclaimed " Time to declare war on little dongly things!" Let's take up his cause. One Voltage to rule them all!
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I think one reason a lot of companies make products that use an adapter rather than a regular power cord is that it is easier to get a product CSA or UL certified (for safety) if it uses an adapter rather than an internal power supply.
Until those low voltage dc outlets become standard in the house, I don't see this problem going away any time soon.
Adapters sure are annoying though!
Does no one make an AC to DC converter for the home that I can plug all these DC devices into? I've found commercial units (for things like music studios) but no consumer units.
Or you can buy a 40 cent plug in adapter and fix your problems that way. Hmm, cheaper, consumes less plastic and you don't have to throw out your old surge strip.