Any recommendations for a universal charger?

[Krynn72]

I'm looking for a good quality universal charger for my home office. Anyone know of one that has the newer style HP and lenovo tips, and maybe even has some of the less common netbook adapter tips?

 

[Markverhyden]

I've been a big fan of Targus for these over the years. But some adapters are chipped so you might get an error, and no charging, trying to charge a machine while it's powered up. I've found this with Dell and Apple. If they are powered down they will still charge.

On a separate but related issue - AC to DC adapters. Went to a remote site today to troubleshoot a no connect to the router. Turns out the adapter was bad. In the past I'd run to the nearest Shack to pickup something but they are no more.

 

[katz]

I'm a fan of the igo green universal chargers that come with various assorted tips.

http://tinyurl.com/mtomboz

 

[coffee]

I have this "Prudent Way" charger that seems to have gone the distance. Still rock solid and does 12v - 24 v.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/995459-REG/prudent_way_pwi_ac120le_universal_notebook_lcd.html

Does a good job and is like 35 bucks.

 

[katz]

coffee,

Have you tested the output voltages on that one to see if it is on the money? I checked a few of the RS models like that and they were all over the place.

 

[mr m]

On a separate but related issue - AC to DC adapters. Went to a remote site today to troubleshoot a no connect to the router. Turns out the adapter was bad. In the past I'd run to the nearest Shack to pickup something but they are no more.

Yeah, too bad about RS. I've been going there since I've been a kid.

I keep a spare, UL listed, 12V/2A adapter in my truck for this very reason. It works for most routers or switches I come across. It also works with some USB/SATA disk adapters.

Some info for anyone who wants it. The power input/output of the adapter is embossed into the plastic or printed on a label. The barrel connectors for these 12V adapters are usually 5.5 mm in diameter unlike laptops that are all over the place. Most routers/switches need 1 Amp and most USB/SATA adapters require 2-3 Amps. The Voltage must be an exact match for the appliance in question. Never use an adapter that provides less Amps that you need. More can't hurt you.

If your appliance states Watts as opposed to Amps use Ohm's law. Amps = Power/Volts. So 36 Watts divided by 12 Volts = 3 Amps.

 

[Martyn]

I use these, I have one in the workshop and one in the car.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Universal-N...d=1426259399&sr=8-1&keywords=Leicke+universal

 

[coffee]

coffee,

Have you tested the output voltages on that one to see if it is on the money? I checked a few of the RS models like that and they were all over the place.

Yes I have. I havent found anything bad. Perhaps you got a bad one?

I dont know. I know its an offbrandcheapthing but it works for me. Ive never had a problem with it. Its usually the laptop

coffee

 

[Krynn72]

Thanks to all for the suggestions. Looks like the Leike ones aren't available on the USA amazon site. While looking at the options of the other brands mentioned, I happened across this one here:
http://smile.amazon.com/Westronix-Universal-Adapter-Charger-Notebook/dp/B00MDH6KP2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1426297204&sr=8-4&keywords=universal laptop charger

Its got both the new rectangular style Lenovo adapter, plus the new small tip adapter for HPs. Reviews suggest its of pretty high quality too. Plus it says it has "-Built-in dell original IC support charging laptop and battery at the same time." Not sure how true that is, and there is a slight hint of chinglish in the description. Still, for $30, might pull the trigger on this one.

 

[Markverhyden]

Thanks to all for the suggestions. Looks like the Leike ones aren't available on the USA amazon site. While looking at the options of the other brands mentioned, I happened across this one here:
http://smile.amazon.com/Westronix-Universal-Adapter-Charger-Notebook/dp/B00MDH6KP2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1426297204&sr=8-4&keywords=universal laptop charger

Its got both the new rectangular style Lenovo adapter, plus the new small tip adapter for HPs. Reviews suggest its of pretty high quality too. Plus it says it has "-Built-in dell original IC support charging laptop and battery at the same time." Not sure how true that is, and there is a slight hint of chinglish in the description. Still, for $30, might pull the trigger on this one.

Personally I'd look for more wattage, say 100-120.

 

[mrapoc]

I got a lieke one

Pleasantly surprised

 

[SilverLeaf]

No longer available from Ne[/URL]w Egg, but I've had one of these for a few years and it's been great.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834995860