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The 'world's smallest' laptop adapter debuts on Kickstarter for $79
Back at CES in January, MIT spin-off FINsix unveiled the "world's smallest" 65W laptop adapter, and it even managed to nab a nomination for our Best Startup award. Fast forward to today, the company is launching this nifty device -- now dubbed the Dart -- on Kickstarter for as low as $79 per unit. Here's a quick reminder: this charger is four times smaller and six times lighter than its regular counterparts, and it also comes with a 2.1A USB port. The enabling technology here is a highly efficient VHF (very high frequency) power conversion, as refined and patented by MIT. As you'd expect, the Dart is compatible with most laptops, and there's even a special version for MacBooks that don't need more than 65W of power.
FINsix laptop adapter is tiny, yet powerful, arriving in time for summer
It's 2014, and while some of you have already upgraded to an Intel Haswell laptop, many still have to carry a bulky power adapter for the more demanding machines. Luckily, MIT spin-off FINsix has come up with a breakthrough technology that dramatically reduces both the size and weight of laptop adapters. As you can see above, the startup's new 65W brick is dwarfed by its conventional counterparts; the claim is it's four times smaller and six times lighter. The new adapter also comes with a handy 2.1A USB port alongside the laptop plug, both of which can be used at the same time. Fret not, MacBook users, as FINsix is working on getting Apple's approval to make a MagSafe version as well. We won't go too deep into the technical details, but in a nutshell, the FINsix adapter is enabled by MIT's VHF (very high frequency) switching technology, which is a thousand times faster than what we use today. As with all legit electronics, this new product will go through the usual safety compliance tests, so there should be nothing to worry about once it hits the shelves. There's no pricing just yet, but watch out for a pre-sale campaign in two months' time ahead of the summer launch. Check out our video after the break, in which the lovely CEO Vanessa Green introduces her company's product at CES.
Completely useless extension turns laptop adapter into power strip
It's 2:30pm at your favorite cafe, and not a single power outlet's available to save your dying laptop from its fate. You're screwed, but a world away, your Japanese counterpart knows just what to do. They pull out this tiny little brick, stick it into the end of their laptop power supply, and deferentially ask another patron if they would kindly share. For the low, low price of ¥1,400 (about $15) for a two-prong version or ¥2,000 ($21) for three prongs, it's a fantastic idea... for mooching money off those who've never heard of a triple tap.
Kensington Wall Ultra Compact Notebook Power Adapter: more compact than your notebook power adapter
Schlepping a laptop into a coach seat is bad enough -- lugging along a fatty power adapter to boot is adding insult to injury. Kensington has got your back, or its trying to save it a little strain at least, with the Ultra Compact Notebook Power Adapter. It weighs 7.1 ounces with dimensions of 4.5 x 2.2 x 0.8 inches. Slinky indeed, and with adapters for most types of notebooks (Apple is notably absent), plus adapters for mini and microUSB, it looks to be very useful. There are two models, the $99 K38066US and the $119 K38067US, which also includes an adapter for use in suitably equipped airline seats. Jet setting with a full battery and a little more room in your man purse? It doesn't get much better.
