Gear: You’ll get a charge out of this compact surge protector
Need something smaller for travel? Satechi’s Compact USB Surge Protector is a 1.4-by-2-by-1.25-inch three-prong plug that converts a single AC outlet into dual outlets, one for a two- or three-prong AC plug, the other for a USB charging plug. Both get surge protection.
This isn’t cutting-edge tech, but it’s nice to be able to charge two electronic devices simultaneously while freeing up an AC power outlet or a USB port on your laptop.
The lime green face helps distinguish this adapter from similar-looking ones without surge protection. An LED indicator lights up to show the surge protector is working.
The 1-amp output is fine for charging smartphones and 7-inch tablets but may or may not be able to handle larger tablets. (My iPad charged OK, but I’m hoping Satechi’s next model has a 2-amp output to guarantee success.)
Still, this is cheap, small and welcome, especially in outlet-challenged rooms. The Satechi Compact USB Surge Protector is $12.99.
Info: Satechi Compact Surger Protector, (858) 268-1800.
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