Archive for the ‘Mind of The Geek’ Category

Let’s face it folks, USB charging for gadgets isn’t going anywhere. It’s a handy way to avoid numerous device specific chargers but we still need the charger for wall based power drinks. If you happen to own a few juice hungry devices, you still can end up with a clogged energy receptacle. We’ve seen a few different wall outlets that do away with the charger and instead allow users to plug the cable directly into the outlet. Newer Technology sent over their version, the Power2U for us to put through its paces.

The Power2U is set up to satisfy plenty of geeks out there with its feature set, ease of use and insanely easy installation. The P2U is a standard two 3-prong outlet with two additional USB slots on the side. The outlet is built with a “Smart Power” sensor that shuts off power to the USB ports when the cable is unplugged as well as delivering just the right amount of the juice needed. To combat the constant drain unused but still active ports steal, the P2U has ‘Safety Shutters’ that slide closed after the cable has been popped out. No electricity flows to the port if the shutter is closed. Take that hippies!

Installation is a breeze so don’t start freaking out, calling your electrician cousin who owes you a favor – if you’ve ever swapped out a dead outlet at home, you can do this. The guide included by Newer Tech is straightforward enough, covering all the basics that most of us should know. It took me less than the stated 20 minutes to pull my old plug-in out and slip the new P2U in. One note of warning geeks, due to the abilities of the P2U, it is bigger than your old outlet so pay attention to the electrical box you’re installing it in. As long as you have the clearance room and you connect the hot, neutral and ground wires, you have the battle won.

Thoughts after the break…

Read more: Geeky Gadget Review: Power2U Wall Outlet.