Logan Booker plays with his bag of power.
It's pretty much technology's answer to electronic multiculturalism, and if it doesn't let you fit snugly into every slot, port, hole or plug in the world, then there's something wrong with you.
Also accompanying this dizzying array of cabling are adaptors for a range of mobile phones, laptops and PDAs, including Sony Ericsson, Nokia, HP and Dell. There's also a USB mini-hub, so you can charge or power USB devices, such as mobile phones, with USB power cabling.
While this may sound simply fantastic for the travel aficionado or road warrior, the entire setup is overkill for most practical purposes. Almost all digital devices these days that require charging come with the necessary cables and plugs, and spending cash on stuff you already have seems a little redundant. The main appeal of the pack is the collection of international adaptors, but the included plugs for every mobile in existence is less of a draw once you realise that only one of them is going to see regular use.
Otherwise, the adaptor is solidly built and radiates quality. APC is renowned for its UPS products, and it shows in the TravelPower adaptor kit. One niggle however is the way the voltage needs to be changed using a coin, screwdriver or other thin implement. This cumbersome way of adjusting the voltage significantly detracts from its ease of use.
The other part of this offering is the blue APC backpack. Tough, waterproof and durable, it's pretty much everything you'd want in a portable container.
While nifty, it is pure overkill - the Backpack is for the hardcore traveller only. Yet you could do better by shopping around.
Issue: 133 | February, 2012