PowerStation Organizer Review: Reduce Clutter & Organize Mobile Charging

Not too long ago, my Client Denise Wakeman asked me about a mobile charging station for her desk.  I am impressed that Denise continues to improve her space, long after we finished-- getting organization to work means follow-up and maintenance.  Since our conversation, she's found her station at Hammacher Schlemmer.  But what about other folks who may need a nudge?

Mobile charging stations are designed for households or offices with multiple cell phones, MP3 players, PDAs, or games. Stations keep multiple portable electronics recharged in a central location, reducing the clutter associated with multiple units being charged at once. Easily-adjustable sliders hold each item securely in place. And the unit's circuit breaker will trip in case of a surge or when overheated; a button is built in to reset the breaker in such cases.

Smartphonethoughts.com had an article today about mobile charging units and their usefulness in the world of household and office clutter.  My tip is to make sure you read the comments.  If you aren't, you're missing the meat.  Also, check out Barrys-rigs-n-reviews.com for a complete review of the unit's pros and cons.  It's Geek Heaven!

Related Post:

• A new mahogany-style charger station from Front Gate

Comments

[Denise Kotula]

Thanks so much for introducing me to Power Station organizers. A minute ago I had no idea they existed, now I want to buy one for my office.

[John Trosko]

Hi Denise-- thanks for your comment. I knew these existed, but feared suggesting because, well, gadgets usually end up in the garage, unused and lonely.

But when a friend told me she was shopping around for one, I did the reseach and asked her to report back to me after the happy purchase. She loves it. Therefore, I love them.

One tip I would suggest is always try and have your cel phone or pda "live" somewhere. I have a habit on trying to hide cel phone cords anyway-- I like to empty drawers and drill holes so the cords can be hidden as much as possible with the phone living inside the drawer. It makes for a nice, clean appearance and you'll always know where the phone is. This charger unit solution may be better for you if you can't drill, or lack drawer space.

[Eric]

Wouldn't this draw power for every plug at all times? Not sure if it would add up to much but I try to be green.

[John Trosko]

Hi Eric! Thanks for your question. You know, I am not sure if having the unit plugged in draws continuous power or not. I will check with an Electrician and let you (and other readers know).

-- John

[Denise Wakeman]

I love my power station! Before my gadgets were in a tangled mess on my desk and now they are neatly organized. They have a place to live and I like that! Thanks again for the recommendation, John.

[John Trosko]

Eric, As promised, here is an answer to your question regarding the amount of power this unit draws when the pieces aren't plugged in.

This information is from a Professional Electrician.

"Yes, almost all chargers draw power if plugged into a connivance outlet even though nothing is being charged at the time. But the amount of power being used is so small that it would have to be plugged in for a long long time before enough power will register on the electric meter. This is because the LED’s and the circuit used to monitor what’s being charged is still active and waiting for some device to be plugged in..."

I hope this helps. Thanks for reading the OrganizingLA Blog.

[Eric]

Thanks for the info! Seems like having 4 or 5 would add up, your post is good news. What about the heat they generate? Doesn't the transforming go on 24/7 and disspate heat as a waste product no matter the current draw.

[phillyscooter]

where is the best place for this item? office, bedroom, front foyer? I live vertically, so its hard to get everyone to agree wher to place this item? Help John!

[John Trosko]

Hi Scott,

I would place this charger anywhere you'd actually use it. Because it will be charged overnight, I'd keep it somewhere near my bedroom so I could hear it ring. But that's just me.

For you, I'd suggest maybe clearing a shelf off of a bookcase, and storing the unit on a shelf (maybe drill a hole in the bookcase so the cord can go through.)

What do you think?