USB extension cable arrives with inline card reader

You know, sometimes it's just the simple things in life that really bring a smile to one's face. Take this cable, for instance. At first glance, it's really nothing more than a USB extension cable (USB A Male-to-mini USB) with an odd protrusion in the middle. Sort of like a snake that's only halfway done digesting its latest meal. Gross analogies aside, that bulge is actually an SD card reader that's also capable of handling SDHC, miniSD and microSD formats. The whole cord measures 2.43 feet long and costs just $11.99 -- can you say "geek stocking stuffer?"

[(Unverified) Posted Mar 18th 2009 12:41PM]

It seems useful, but I wouldn't spend $12 on it.

[(Unverified) Posted Mar 18th 2009 6:43PM]

You obviously don't have a MacBook "needs more USB ports" Air...

[ArchD Posted Mar 18th 2009 12:43PM]

Except for those who like neat, arranged, out-of-sight cables...

[dvsbstrd Posted Mar 18th 2009 12:45PM]

I think it would be more useful on either end of the cable.

Probably the Mini-USB end.

[Art Posted Mar 18th 2009 1:17PM]

+1

From the photos its actually down at the standard USB end. Why?! Surely that's the end that'll probably be plugged into the back of your machine where it's most awkward to get to? It would be on mine...

[(Unverified) Posted Mar 18th 2009 12:54PM]

Heck, half of the computer devices i have include mem card readers now. seems like it would be more annoying being on the cable than anything.

[Raul7 Posted Mar 18th 2009 12:55PM]

Or you can just get an actual card reader for about the same price as this that supports like 20 different types of cards.

[SonicEarth Posted Mar 18th 2009 12:59PM]

geek stocking stuffer

[Uphillbothways Posted Mar 18th 2009 4:23PM]

A severed foot is the ultimate stocking stuffer.

-Thanks to Mitch Hedberg.

[Interpol Posted Mar 18th 2009 1:02PM]

The little flowery design in the top left corner makes me want to buy one. So stylish!

[superhobo Posted Mar 18th 2009 3:55PM]

That's what makes it look ugly.

[Avaviel Posted Mar 18th 2009 1:02PM]

Thats totally awesome! I agree that the design could be changed to something better, but it is still awesome.

[bull3964 Posted Mar 18th 2009 1:31PM]

I think some are missing the point. I don't think this is aimed at desktop users. It's aimed at the mobile market. This basically condenses down two items that you may have to carry around to a single item. Not terrifically revolutionary, but it still could be useful for someone who wants to simplify their computer bag that doesn't have an on-board card reader.

[ljbisbee Posted Mar 18th 2009 1:52PM]

I ordered the microSD version when Gizmodo posted about this awhile back (still waiting for it to come). I ordered it specifically for my phone to use with my laptop. My laptop doesn't support SDHC cards, so transferring files was slow, since I had to do it through the phone. This thing will make it much faster, without having to carry around an extra thing.

[glennS Posted Mar 18th 2009 1:36PM]

Clearly falls into the category of "because we can".

[FatherDale Posted Mar 18th 2009 1:38PM]

Well, there's the answer to the question nobody asked. "How can I endanger a flimsy little card AND open a hole in a cable taking current from my computer and make them more vulnerable to coffee?

[ch4s3r Posted Mar 18th 2009 1:45PM]

So it says "Charge Cable" does the mini usb end actually data transfer as well?

[SirNoDroin Posted Mar 18th 2009 4:51PM]

depends on the pins...technically you can charge anything that needs a 5volt 500mA (or 1Amp if you break specs) as long as you pin it out right. if its a full set of pins in the miniUSB more then likely it sends your datas as well.

[MorningZ Posted Mar 18th 2009 1:51PM]

One thing to keep in mind from the fine print:

"The product is either functioning with the mini 5 pin OR the card reader, you cannot have them functioned simultaneously"

That kinda sucks

[John Stracke Posted Mar 18th 2009 1:56PM]

Bleah. I guessed it had a hub in it. I suppose that'd have power supply problems, though.

[Wwhat Posted Mar 18th 2009 4:07PM]

Perfect gift if you like disappointing people.

[SirNoDroin Posted Mar 18th 2009 4:49PM]

if company's stoped making devices that draw more amps then the bus was designed for...*cough** 2.5'' hdds **cough**...power wouldn't be a problem

[(Unverified) Posted Mar 18th 2009 3:03PM]

Looks like more of a protuberance than a protrusion to me.

[hey buddy Posted Mar 18th 2009 4:18PM]

Yes, it's a clever device, but I have to say the coup de grâce is that horrible typesetting and the flourish in the upper left corner - it's amazing! Ain't nuthin' like a decorative oblique font in all-caps!

[(Unverified) Posted Mar 18th 2009 9:56PM]

clever.. yet I don't know how useful it would really be.