FlexUSB Adapter Review Updated

Product Requirements:
Device:
Any computer with a standard sized USB port

Updated 4/6/2004 See comments at end of review.

I have a real weakness for widgets, doodads, thingamabobs and whatzits. I
have drawers full of them. That’s the problem. I buy these little doo-hickeys
thinking they will make my life easier somehow, when all they do is clutter up
my drawers. When I saw the FlexUSB ‘thingy’
from Ideative, I tried to control my impulse to buy one. I was successful too!
But then they contacted me and asked if I’d like to do a review. I couldn’t very
well say NO could I? ;o)

What exactly is the FlexUSB? It is a small (3.5 inch long) USB adapter that
is designed to work on both Windows and Mac platforms, and with all USB devices
that have a standard sized connector (including USB 2.0). It allows you to
orient or position a USB device in the most optimal way for a cramped computing
environment.

Notebook users will agree that they have unique challenges using USB devices.
Typically their USB ports are limited, and are in an inconvenient location
causing the USB device to be in an awkward orientation. Mobile users often have
to work in a limited space such as an airplane tray table, small coffee shop
table, or even their lap. This limits the user’s ability to effectively connect
one or multiple USB devices.

The FlexUSB adapter comes to the rescue by giving you a +/- 90° horizontal
hinge and a +/- 90º vertical hinge. The two bendable joints give you a variety
of ways to manipulate the adapter.

I gave this little adapter a good workout by using it with my Fujitsu
Lifebook P2100. This notebook has 2 USB ports located on the back of the device.
I find that I either need to stand on my head or completely flip the notebook
around whenever I want to plug device into one of these ports. The FlexUSB
solved this problem perfectly. By plugging it in and bending the extender
straight up, I could then easily plug in anything I needed by closing the screen
enough to see the extender.

It even worked great for my desktop. I have a Microsoft Internet keyboard,
that has 2 USB ports on the back. I’ve always had problems accessing the ports
because I keep my keyboard in a drawer which doesn’t give me much room to
maneuver. The FlexUSB allowed me to extend the port out to an area where I could
access easier.

The FlexUSB is one of those little doo-dads that actually do make your
life easier whether you are a notebook user or a desktop user. If you have a
cramped computing area and find yourself plugging and unplugging USB devices on
a routine basis, you will probably benefit from this product.

Update (4/6/2004):

The folks at Ideative were kind enough to send me an
update to their original FlexUSB adapter, along with two other new products. The
updated adapter looks identical to the original, but feels more robust. It can
now bend a full 90 degrees (see 2nd picture at beginning of review) instead of
really close to 90 degrees.

This adapter is now also available in white for Mac users
(…and for users that happen to like white). The functionality and price of
this adapter hasn’t changed, just
the color.

Also available are three new FlexUSB cables. They have the same basic FlexUSB adapter, but the adapter is attached to a 6ft length of
cable. Available with a full-size male USB connector, mini USB connector
or female USB connector on the non-FlexUSB end, these cables help keep your
wires routed nicely. The also make great extension cables for your USB
equipment.

Price: $12.99 adapters, $16.99 cables

Pros:
Makes USB ports more accessible
Simple to use

Cons:
Nothing

Tagged as: Desktop, Laptop

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