As the headline states, a recent Apple patent shows a system where data and power share a MagSafe adapter. It would look and magnetically connect just like the current MagSafe, but two cables would exit the adapter with a a fiber optic line for data and the standard power cord. Internally there would be an additional “pin” for the fiber line.
Apple notes in the filing that currently there’s a need for multiple connections when docking a computer. You have the power cable as most notebook batteries cannot make it an entire work day and then either a USB connection to a hub or an Ethernet cable. This patent talks of a future where this one cable handles it all. → Read More
Remember when Apple filed suit against Hypermac for infringing on their MagSafe and iPod chargin cables? For those who don’t know, Hypermac’s battery solutions provide extra battery life for Apple products by connecting a big battery, via a MagSafe, to the Macbook and Macbook Pro or to an i-Device via the dock connector. → Read More
Apple’s MagSafe connector is nifty. It’s held on by magnets so it’s a lot harder to ruin both the connector and notebook if the power cord gets jerked-out unexpectedly. We dug up a DIY guide on how to convert your PC’s non-MagSafe adaptor into an ugly, but still working, clone. → Read More
Fire hazard, smire hazard. A class action lawsuit accuses Apple of negligence vis-à-vis the MacSafe power adapter. The suit, filed in San Jose, says that faulty MasSafe design can lead frayed wires and general calamity, which can cause fires. → Read More
[photopress:MagStaySmall.jpg,full,center] I like a company that says “not everyone’s going to need or even understand our product” and is up-front about it, especially if it’s a product I really don’t get. The MagStay Pro is just such a product. I think the MagSafe power adapters Apple built into its portables is just great, but some people apparently find themselves unplugging their laptops when they don’t mean to. Sure it’s a little annoying, but some folks just get livid. This the MagStay. It attaches to the USB port next to the power port and holds the power cable firmly in place, so you don’t accidentally unplug it. Kudos to ThoughtOut for coming up with this, and also for not talking down to those of us who don’t “get it”. MagStay Pro [Thoughout.biz] → Read More
What’s that smell? Oh yeah, that’s just someone’s MagSafe adapter burning up on their MacBook Pro, but don’t worry Apple has pulled the 85W power supplies from retail stores. But fear not. Apple is working vigorously to rectify the situation. A freshly redesigned adapter is in the works and should be coming soon. The Apple Store indicates that MagSafe adapters are 2 to 3 weeks out from shipping. Briefly: redesigned MacBook Pro power adapters on the way [Apple Insider] → Read More
Wouldn’t it be great if there was a device for headphones that acted like Apple’s MagSafe technology? You could just dance around for hours, not worrying about ripping your stereo system out of the wall. Thanks to a company called Replug, you can now do just that. You basically plug your headphones into the Replug device then connect the device as a “middleman” to your stereo, computer, whatever. Should you pull on the cable too hard, the magnets inside the device will disconnect and your equipment will be spared. Another day, another dollar saved. In this case, possibly thousands. Too bad the damn Replug hasn’t been released yet. Expect to see it available “sometime this fall”. Official Site [via Oh Gizmo!] → Read More
