BoxWave VersaCharger

Gadgeteer Hands On Review by Judie Hughes

October 07, 2004

Product Requirements:
A USB sync/charger for your electronic device

Buying a PDA that comes with a cradle is just wonderful for those who sit at a desk day in and day out. Viewing that PDA's screen when it is sitting propped up at an appropriate angle is quite convenient. However, the first time the owner needs to travel with that PDA, the desktop charger is suddenly revealed for what it is - a clunky item to lug around.

This has led to a proliferation of USB driven compact sync and charge cables for frequent travelers. While these cables are fabulous to use when the owner is bringing along a Laptop to connect to, they are useless if that person is trying to eliminate the laptop and travel light - with just their PDA.

BoxWave is offering the perfect solution for those that don't want to travel with their PDA's cradle or with their laptops: the VersaCharger.

Measuring 4.5" long by 1.5" wide, the VersaCharger is the perfect size to chuck into a gearbag or keep in the glovebox of the car. Comprised of smoky translucent plastic, the charger can be used both in a wall socket or in the cigar lighter of a vehicle. All you have to add is the USB sync and charge cable that works with your particular device.

   
Photos courtesy of BoxWave

There is a USB port on the end to receive the plug from the cable, and under the clear plastic cap on the opposite end is the cigar adapter.

   
Photos courtesy of BoxWave

An LED light on the top side glows red when the attached electronic device is charging,  and it glows green once charging is complete. The underside of the charger houses the electrical prongs which fold down for wall-socket charging.

When used in conjunction with a USB cable charger, such as BoxWave's miniSync, the VersaCharger is a compact and complete charging solution.

I have been very impressed with the set. I travel quite a bit and in the last year have been trying to carry my laptop less and less. Being able to power my charging cable either in the car, on planes equipped with outlets, or from a wall outlet from such a compact device is the epitome of convenience. With the holidays coming up and gift lists being made, this might be the perfect item for your favorite road warrior.

Updated 03/10/05: Thuan Truong, one of our readers, wrote to say that if you are trying to charge the HP iPAQ 4700 while running the wireless, the VersaCharger will not produce enough power. I have tested it with mine, and found his observation to be correct. Obviously, this is not something I had needed before, so I hadn't run into a problem, but I'll know to test for it next time! If that is the scenario in which you might be thinking about using the VersaCharger, then you will not be satisfied. Thanks Thuan for pointing out this problem. Hopefully BoxWave will fix it ASAP.

Price: $24.95
Add $14.95 for the miniSync

Pros:
Compact charger that draws power from either wall socket or power port in car
Can be used in conjunction with the USB sync/charge cable you may already own

Cons:
None