If you'd like to hard wire your home for charging, the one possible ultimate solution is the Newer Technology Power2U AC/USB Outlet. It lets you replace a 120-volt 15-Amp electric socket at home, while gaining four USB power ports in the process.
The vast majority of USB and accessory chargers use a power supply of some sort, with a cable to either the device or a charging base. No matter what the configuration, what they all have in common is a reliance on a power outlet. Here's a 21st century alternative to the traditional power outlet: the Newer Technology Power2U AC/USB Outlet is a specialized outlet that houses its own USB power supply and sockets. It might possibly be the ultimate reduction in power brick clutter. This innovative product is also safe and affordable - the UL-listed AC/USB Outlet retails for $22.99. When we first saw the unit it was available only in white, but recently they added a few slightly more colorful options including black, ivory, and light almond, so matching your existing sockets and wall plates shouldn’t be a decorator's nightmare.
Unlike a power brick, the unit needs to be installed directly to your home wiring. Although it takes just a few minutes to install, you might have to factor in a quick visit by your electrician, depending upon your own electrical expertise. Introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show, the Power2U AC/USB Outlet quickly generated a stir as a solid, well-designed and -built solution for our growing dependence on the ubiquitous USB power port. It is a very convenient solution, with two 120-volt sockets and two USB 2.1/3.0 compatible ports, plus built-in safety shutters to cover the sockets when not in use. Most power bricks come under criticism for their constant use of electricity, even while not in use by their host device. The Power2U AC/USB Outlet only supplies power to the USB ports as needed, saving both energy and money. According to the company, it is the only UL/CUL Listed E339607 solution available for in-wall, home-safe use in U.S. and Canada. The only potential problem we can imagine with the Power2U AC/USB Outlet it is that you’ll want to replace all your sockets with them! A dozen of them as a gift for the techie in your life might be a nice starting point!
For more information on the Power2U AC/USB Outlet visit: www.newertech.com
Harris Fogel & Nancy Burlan, Posted 3/25/2012
