Editors' Notes Weblog: Where are the third-party MagSafe accessories?

#1 Macworld.com

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 12:30 PM

Dan Frakes loves the MagSafe power connector, but wants more third-party adapters that are compatible with the technology. [more]

#2 mwp98223

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 04:19 PM

This is interesting. I just purchased a Deep Fat Fryer for my kitchen and the power cord is basically the same as the Apple MagSafe. I'm not up on intellectual property law and patents, but I wonder how this power supply (although not for a computer) can be used for this very NON-Apple product?

#3 DominikHoffmann

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 04:31 PM

I need an adapter, so that I can run my MacBook Pro in my car. I found out at the Apple Store that the airplane seet adapter is the only power accessory, and that it definitely does not work in a car's power outlet, even though the connector looks like it should.
Dominik Hoffmann

#4 partsmutt

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 04:44 PM

In a statement released by Apple today, company spokesman Whoya Kiddin said "We're a phone company. Clearly no one in the media was paying attention at the MacWorld Expo when we dropped "computer" from our name. The MacIntosh is a deprecated product, as evidenced by our pulling out of Leopard development in favor of the iPhone. We will no longer update the iPod. If the millions of iPod fans want advanced features, they can buy an iPhone. Given these facts, why do you think we would waste time and energy developing accessories for a laptop computer? A nice power adapter will be available for the iPhone in late July."

#5 thraxisp

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 04:54 PM

I can think of some other extensions. I'd buy a new power supply for my wife's Powerbook if it had the MagSafe connector in line, adapting the new supply to an older laptop. The cat loves to play with the cord.

#6 Jason Snell

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 05:12 PM

Has anyone tried applying their adapters to the other side of the power brick? It might be clunky but it also might work.

#7 flybynight

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 05:44 PM

Exactly - while certainly not as elegant, the "Kensington Ultra Portable Power Inverter 150" available at Apple stores and online is the most universal solution to powering your products in the car - it gives you a standard 110v AC outlet, so you can plug in the power adapter that you already own for your iPod, MacBook/Pro, iBook, PowerBook, iPod, etc...

#8 heyjp

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 06:10 PM

Jason,
Yes. I can't remember the vendor, but I have a 12v to 120v adapter in my car that I have plugged PowerBook and MacBook Pro converters into. They work great. The MacBook Brick thinks it's at home.
I used to have several 3rd party power adapters at key places where I used by PowerBook (bedroom, kitchen, study, work). But I didn't have to shell out $80/adapter either. So now I have 2. One at work and one in the briefcase for everywhere else. Instead of making more money, Apple has made my MacBook Pro experience a little less convenient by withholding the license.
Jim

#9 vintagegeek

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 07:04 PM

Quote:

Dan Frakes loves the MagSafe power connector, but wants more third-party adapters that are compatible with the technology. <a href="http://www.macworld.com/weblogs/editors/2007/05/magsafe/index.php">[more]</a>

Ticks me off big time that Apple is restricting this feature for its loyal customers. Especially now that they're selling more laptops then desktops. At the very least they should have offered up a car adapter...who at Apple is in charge of this shortcoming? The PodCast Gurus at MacWorld et al should be all over them about this. GET AN ANSWER YOU GUYS!!!

#10 Dan Frakes

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 07:26 PM

Quote:

Power inverters are useful for the car, but they don't work on planes. Plus most people will still be left with at least three pieces of power gear: the MagSafe adapter, the inverter, and one or more additional adapters for other gadgets. I really miss being able to take along a single, slim adapter that works with AC, car, and plane outlets and can power my laptop, my iPod, and my mobile phone (sometimes even two of the three at once).

#11 AndrewRodney

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 07:37 PM

Great and timely piece. I just purchased a MacBook Pro. I've got both the Juice and Kensington power adapters and I'm kind of [censored] I can't use either due to this tip issue. Two new door stops.

#12 d9c9

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 07:38 PM

I've had my deep fryer for over 2 years and has the same Magnet power design as well Apple didn't invent it completely. When I saw Mag Safe I said to myself oh just like my deep fryer.

#13 BillAlexander

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 08:16 PM

Anyone interested in a cigarette adapter for their MacBook/Pro should visit http://www.mikegyver.com/, a guy who sells and converts exiting adapters into multi adapters. He also converts the kensington power adapter into a Mag Safe compatible version. I purchased one from him and it works great.
Bill

#14 BillAlexander

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Posted 24 May 2007 - 08:18 PM

Dan,
see my post above. This guy will sell you exactly what you need. http://www.mikegyver.com/
I'm in no way associated with him, just a user of his product, and loving having portable power again.
Bill