power adapter
Latest
Apple cuts prices on EarPods and its iPhone power adapter by $10
Apple made its EarPods and new power adapter for the iPhone a bit more affordable after confirming that the new iPhones will no longer ship with accessories. The tech giant now sells the EarPods with Lightning connector on the Apple Store for $19 (as noticed by MacRumors), down $10 from its original price. At the same time, the new 20W power adapter for the iPhone also costs $19, which is $10 less than the old adapter the company has discontinued.
The Apple Watch doesn't come with a power adapter anymore
The Apple Watch doesn't come with a power adapter anymore. Is that the company being environmentally conscious, or just cheap?
TUAW video tip: How to "double-wrap" your MacBook power adapter (updated)
It's the Mac tip that's taking the Internet by storm! Just yesterday, Twitter user J Cornelius tweeted out the following: MacBook Pro tip: Use the small cable to hold the big cable in place. pic.twitter.com/i7l6ZJ3xgH - J Cornelius (@jc) December 10, 2013 Tens, perhaps hundreds of thousands of retweets later, we bring you a TUAW video tip version of this amazing feat -- the double-wrap! It's an intuitively obvious way of wrapping up your MacBook power adapter cords that for some reason seems to have bypassed most MacBook owners. Enjoy! UPDATE: Some folks at Wired have spoiled all the double-wrapping fun by saying that using this technique can shorten the life of the cables. Me? I use a $10 Quirky Power Curl.
Will Surface tablets use Microsoft's new MagSafe-like power and data connector?
Microsoft has borrowed a couple of Apple-flavored notions for the launch of its new Surface tablets. For a start, it's avoided mentioning certain tech specs -- like the amount of RAM -- and now one of our readers has noticed something else: the strange-looking power port on the new devices looks very much like the magnetic, MagSafe-style connector Microsoft sent to the US Patent Office last week. We could be wrong, but the two do seem nearly identical, in which case Surface owners -- just like new Apple buyers -- may also have to put up with the clutter of more proprietary cables. [Thanks, Ryan]
Apple MagSafe vs. MagSafe 2: photos of the two incompatible power connectors
Apple quietly introduced a newer, slimmer, snazzier MagSafe connector here at WWDC, with the Retina display-equipped 15-inch MacBook Pro (yeah, the "next-generation" one) and the newly-unveiled MacBook Air machines utilizing it. Still, the original MagSafe is finding its way onto the refreshed MacBook Pro (both 13- and 15-inch), but we're guessing the original isn't long for this world. As with anything, change ain't easy -- for the two to talk to one another, you'll need an optional $10 adapter (which evidently ships gratis with the 27-inch Thunderbolt Display). It's also worth noting that the actual AC power plug returned to the "T-style" form factor, rather than the "side-style" seen in the MacBook units that were new... well, yesterday. We stacked a next-gen MBP atop a last-gen MBP just to showcase the differences; hit the gallery below if you're interested in such things. %Gallery-157968%
Powertech Ultra Slim outlet expander brings USB ports to your wall outlet
There's always a few unexpected devices to be found, and we just caught a glimpse of one such device at CES Unveiled this evening from an OEM called Powertech Industries. Called the Ultra Slim, it's an outlet expander that gives any regular electrical outlet a pair of USB power sockets -- without the wiring required of more permanent solutions like FastMac's U-Socket. The Ultra Slim is just that, as it's only about half inch thick, and has a unique folding collapsible plug on the back to keep its trim figure. Its thin profile is also able to accommodate the depth of regular plugs with extending sections in the back. The adapters we saw were prototypes, though production will begin in earnest this July and Powertech plans to find a retailer willing to rebrand and sell them to the public for an as-yet-undetermined price. A full gallery of pics of the adapter awaits below. Sean Cooper contributed to this report.
Apple reaches settlement in MagSafe class action suit, dodges fireball
Apple's MagSafe has been veritable boon to the clumsy, saving MacBooks from accidental drops since 2006. The magnetic solution, however, hasn't been exactly great when keeping those same notebooks spark free. Those who weren't able to convince a Genius to part ways with a replacement gratis should know that Cupertino has just settled a class-action relating to the original's propensity to fray. Provided they fill out the necessary paperwork, those who paid for replacements out of pocket will be reimbursed $79 within the first year of the computer's purchase, decreasing to $50 and $35 respectively in the years that follow. Claims can be submitted up to three years after the original purchase, or until March 21, 2012 -- whichever occurs first. And to those of you rocking the pre-2008 "L" shaped redesign, might we recommend some flame retardant socks?
How to make sure you're charging your iPad correctly
Recently I noticed that my iPad was not charging as quickly as it used to. Only a month or so ago I was impressed at how my iPad's battery would easily charge up to the 80% range in a couple short hours, but more recently the same charge time would produce a meager 10% if I was lucky. It was infuriating, and the only thing more infuriating was that I couldn't figure out why. After doing a bit of research this is what I discovered. Being aware that the iPad requires more power to charge (10 watts), I was sure that I was using the right adapter, the one that came in the box with my iPad. However, I became increasingly aware that I had various iOS power adapters strewn all over the house which looked identical to what I assumed was the iPad charger as well as a few compact adapters, one of which came with my iPhone 4, and others that I just seem to have accumulated from goodness knows where. I suddenly realised that I could have easily picked up the wrong charger and mistaken it for the iPad one. The problem was how to decipher one adapter from the next. The compact Apple Power USB Adapter, the one that comes with an iPhone 4 or 3GS, is a 5 watt adapter, but it doesn't actually say that anywhere on it. However, it does indicate that the output is 5 volts at 1.1 amps (5V 1A), which means 5 watts (I realised this after a bit of learning about electricity). This adapter will charge your iPad, but at a much slower rate because it only has an output of 5 watts. According to Apple's website, this adapter is compatible with all iPhones and iPod touches as well as what appears to be all previous iPods too, but not the iPad. %Gallery-128003% The more chunky adapter that comes with the iPad is a 10 watt adapter. Thankfully, this adapter is labelled as a 10W USB Power Adapter (see gallery). Its output is 5 volts at 2.1 amps (5.1V 2.1A) which means 10 watts. Obviously, this is the adapter that will charge your iPad correctly, and as a result, the fastest. However, there is a third adapter that looks identical to the iPad adapter, but it will not charge your iPad at 10 watts. Apple doesn't sell these anymore, but you may have a few around your house if you ever had a wall charger for previous generation iPods and iPhones. This is where I went wrong and couldn't figure out why my iPad wasn't charging correctly, I was using one of these adapters mistaking it for the iPad one. Fortunately these adapters are labelled iPod USB Power Adapter (see gallery). I finally located my iPad adapter attached to a travel adapter I'd thrown in a drawer after recently being abroad. And I'm pleased to say my iPad is charging normally once again! Don't make the same mistake I did, make sure that your iPad is being charged by the correct 10 watt power adapter that came in the box with your iPad or a third party iPad compatible charging accessory. For further information on charging your iPad, and getting the most out of your iPad's battery, check out this support page at Apple's website.
Apple patent application reveals plans for external battery pack, spells further trouble for HyperMac
Way back in September of last year, Apple filed a patent-infringement suit against HyperMac, the folks behind these external batteries. At the time, it looked like Apple was protecting its patented MagSafe power connector, but a newly released USPTO application for a "Power Adapter with Internal Battery" might reveal a more accurate view of the company's litigious motivations. From the look of things, the outfit intends to make its mark on juicing solutions with what is basically a wall charger packing an internal battery. According to the patent filing, the contraption would include a processor for parceling energy to the host device as well as the adapter, and could also incorporate a supplemental energy source like a solar cell. Among other things, it would also communicate with the device being charged to allow users to monitor the juice stored in the extra battery. If the thing does end up making it to market, it looks like HyperMac could have a whole lot more trouble on its hands than a little patent-infringement suit.
Kinect standalone power supply now available from Microsoft
So you bought a new Xbox 360 S console bundled with Kinect last week and, like many others, found your new camera doodad doesn't come with its own power supply -- clearly, Microsoft thought you intended to use your Kinect with this console and this console alone. You were up the proverbial creek, sans paddle ... until now. Microsoft's online store now has a listing for the power supply. No, you can't simply get one on the arm since you purchased the Xbox 360 S bundle -- no, instead you've got to reach into your wallet for $34.99 if you want one. That's almost one whole fifth of the cost of Kinect on its own but, hey, if you need one, now you know where to get it.
Dell finally makes right, offers up-rated power adapters to close the Studio Throttlegate
It's taken a long time, too long by most accounts, but Dell finally has what looks to be a proper, honest to gosh fix for the CPU throttling issues that have been plaguing some of its Studio laptops. Users were reporting that the machines, when faced with slightly elevated temperatures, would throttle themselves back by up to 95 percent, leaving some folks with 100MHz paperweights. Dell issued a firmware update quickly after we shed a little light on the situation back in December, a "fix" that helped some but, apparently, not all. We're just now hearing that the company apparently launched a program back in February to replace the stock 90 watt power adapters with more capable 130 watt models for anyone suffering this affliction. However, this doesn't seem to be a proper recall, as the reports we're seeing indicate only customers who call and complain have been made aware of this program. So, consider yourself made aware. The source link below will take you to the official site where you can order a replacement adapter, but if it doesn't like your service tag number give Dell support a call and mention this program. We're hearing others are having success going that route. [Thanks, Kevin]
Targus recalls half a million laptop power adapters due to burn hazard
Have a Targus laptop power adapter? Then you'll likely want to take notice, as the company has just issued a recall of more than half a million of its adapters, which are actually made by Comarco Inc. The recall specifically affects the company's universal laptop power adapters with interchangeable tips, which can apparently overheat and pose a burn hazard to anyone that tries to unplug it -- there's been 518 reports of connector tips overheating so far, and eight incidents of consumers being burned. Anyone with one of the adapters is advised to stop using it immediately and get in touch with Comarco for a free replacement -- complete details are available at the source link below.
Apple quietly updates design of MagSafe power adapter
Apple has quietly updated the design of 85-watt MagSafe power adapter used with the 15-inch and 17-inch MacBook Pros. The new connector design features an aluminum tip instead of the plastic one which is still available on the 60-watt MagSafe power adapters [Ed. note: this link is now broken, sorry for the inconvenience] used for 13-inch MacBook Pros and MacBooks. Beyond the aesthetic redesign, there doesn't appear to be any added features. The new 85-watt MagSafe now mimics the form of the 45-watt MagSafe power adapter used by the MacBook Air. The advantage the 45-watt and new 85-watt MagSafe power adapters have over the existing 60-watt version is that the design allows for a more slimline interface while connected to the MacBooks they power. Thanks to reader Max M. for the tip.
NPR and WSJ building 'Flash-free' pages for iPad, Apple quietly delays select iPad accessories
For awhile, we couldn't decide what we were more angry at: the fact that select devices wouldn't support Flash, or that Flash was simply too demanding on select devices. We still can't say with any degree of certainty which side of the fence we're on, but there's no question that Apple's refusal to play nice with Adobe on the iPhone, iPod touch and forthcoming iPad limits the abilities of those devices significantly. Curiously enough, it seems that Apple's importance in the mobile (and media delivery) realm is coercing select portals to develop Flash-free websites for those who drop by on an iDevice. Both the National Public Radio and the Wall Street Journal are furiously working on iPad-friendly websites, which will be devoid of Flash for at least the first few pages down. What's interesting is that we get the impression that this will soon become the rule rather than the exception, and it could be exactly what's needed to launch HTML5 into stardom and put these Flash or no Flash debates behind us. In related news, we're also seeing that a couple of iPad accessories won't actually be ready to ship when the device itself cuts loose on April 3rd. Yesterday, the iPad Keyboard Dock was listed with a "May" ship date, though today it has moved up to a marginally more palatable "Late April." The iPad 10W USB Power Adapter also carries a "May" date, while the iPad Case is slated for "Mid April" and that elusive camera connection kit is still nowhere to be found. But hey, at least you'll get your (overpriced) iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter and iPad dock by the first weekend of next month, right?
"Sockintosh" power adapter foot cozy keeps your feet warm, might light you on fire
Rachael Burns, based on her knitting abilities, will make an excellent grandma some day. She's knitted a pretty sweet foot cozy that turns your Apple power adapter into a foot warming device. Rachel says she knitted the aptly-named Sockintosh after realizing she constantly used her power adapter to keep her feet warm. Rachel is quick to point out that the Sockintosh was knitted as a joke. "Your power adapter should be kept very well ventilated for safety reasons. Don't set fire to yourself please. And don't tell me to go and die thank you." So readers, remember, don't go making your own Sockintosh because you could burn to death and don't tell Rachel to die because she's got a bright future as a grandma who knits ugly Christmas sweaters for her grandchildren who were hoping for that new iPad instead.
Apple power adapter foot cozy, by Seymour Burns (video)
Hey, we love innovation and the gumption required to execute on an idea especially when knitting is involved. And the good lorf knows that our tootsies could use some warming up during the marathon sessions we spend at the computer. But while the idea of tucking one of those toasty, Apple laptop power adapters into a "foot cozy" might sound like an ingenious solution to our problem, we're also aware that those little white bricks must be ventilated to function properly. From Apple's own support site: The power adapter may become very warm during normal use. Always put the power adapter directly into a power outlet or place it on the floor in a well-ventilated location. If you are using your MagSafe adapter in a poorly ventilated area, or if the MagSafe adapter is covered by a blanket or other form of insulation, it may turn itself off in order to prevent damage to the adapter. Here's the best part: the inventor's name is Rachael Burns... why yes, she just might. Video demonstration after the break.
Ask TUAW: Power adapters, Windows 7, iWork refresh, and more
Welcome back to Ask TUAW, our weekly troubleshooting Q&A column. This week we've got questions about MacBook power adapters, Windows 7 in Boot Camp and virtualization in general, resetting the Mac Setup Assistant, the next iWork refresh, and more. As always, your suggestions and questions are welcome. Leave your questions for next week in the comments section at the end of this post. When asking a question, please include which machine you're using and what version of Mac OS X is installed on it (we'll assume you're running Snow Leopard on an Intel Mac if you don't specify), or if it's an iPhone-related question, which iPhone version and OS version you have.
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.
Travelmate USB Power Adapter does just what its name implies
If you're a serious gadget-head we don't need to explain just how convenient a USB power adapter can be (especially one that won't shock you). In the case of the Travelmate, USB Geek really does Apple one better, offering a device with two USB ports to Apple's one -- for a sweeter price, to boot. This guy works in your home or your car (or anyone's, for that matter) and includes connector tips for juicing up almost any handset. And if that weren't enough, we hear that the included "carrying pouch" also works with twenty-sided dice. You can't say that about just any pouch, can you?
Dell's AC Adapter for "Adamo Thirteen" is 45 Watts of bland
You know what's sexy? Ultraportables. You know what usually isn't? Their power adapters. Dell's keeping things way on the conservative side here with this "Adamo Thirteen" 45W AC Adapter -- in fact, we'd say this is the exact same adapter we've gotten with every Dell laptop in the past few years or so, other than the miniscule wattage. The part popped up on Dell's site just recently, and while Dell seems to have pulled to Adamo reference, Google cache still remembers the good times. What is perhaps interesting here is the seeming confirmation of the product name that the laptop will have a 13-inch screen. Not hugely surprising given the competitive landscape here, but we're content to nibble on Adamo info for the time being.[Thanks, Ryan]
