Targus USB 2.0 4-Port Bend-A-Hub with Mini-USB Adapter
If you have something like an Apple MacBook Air, you may have noticed that notebooks can oftentimes come with a shortage of USB ports. When you’re on the road, you may still want to have your iPod plugged into for iTunes synchronization, a Bluetooth dongle for pairing with a wireless mouse, a USB flash drive for off-loading documents, a webcam for lifecasting purposes, and all sorts of other stuff that can occupy a USB port.
The Targus USB 2.0 4-Port Bend-A-Hub with Mini USB Adapter takes a similar approach to USB hubs as the Travel Power Outlets mentioned above does with providing power. It’s a USB hub like any other, but the ports are well spaced out to avoid messy tangles and interference. It’s not a “bar” or “block” like so many other hubs, instead splitting that USB connection over a series of very short cables.
There is one port that pops up vertically from the central unit. This is great for USB receivers and the like for keyboards, mice, and so on. Three additional USB ports sprout out the end, one of which is a mini-USB connection. This built-in USB adapter makes it very easy to connect your smartphone, MP3 player, or anything else that does the mini-USB thing.
Despite its name, the cords on this device do not hold their bendy form when you manipulate them. They have a little more stiffness than regular cables, but not enough to hold their shape. The Targus USB 4-Port Bend-A-Hub with Mini USB Adapter sells for $19.99.
Mobile Edge ScanFast Checkpoint Friendly Laptop Backpack
One of the biggest hassles that you might have to go through during your travels is the security checkpoint at airports. You have to remove your shoes, empty your pockets, and expose your precious notebook computer to the elements. This is assuming that everything goes as planned.
While it won’t make you immune from a strip search, the new checkpoint-friendly laptop bags from Mobile Edge might make your flying experience just a touch more convenient. Shown here is the Mobile Edge ScanFast backpack. As you can probably surmise, this bag is designed to get you through luggage checks more quickly.
Normally, you’d need to take your laptop out of the bag. With the ScanFast, you can simply open up the bag and leave your notebook safely stowed inside. It is TSA approved. The ScanFast Collection will be available in three forms: backpack, briefcase, and messenger bag. They’re currently in production and should be ready for retail in the fall. Mobile Edge has promised a review unit, so I’ll withhold judgement until then.
The Never-Ending Supply of Laptop Accessories
Naturally, there is no shortage of cool laptop accessories and the items described in this article are just the tip of the iceberg. Do you have a killer notebook accessory that you want to share with the world? Let us know through the forum link below!
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