USB Wall Sockets - Have they Improved?

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Dynamic

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#1770219 25-Apr-2017 15:18

While I love technology, I also see its limitations and failures.

I've learned that a smart TV is a dumb idea because its software is not maintained. I'm better (at least IMHO) with a dumb TV ad adding a smart gadget. I've learned that some things that used to be 'built for life' now barely last 5 years. I've learned that rapidly evolving technology means things are being superseded rapidly.

Would I go for touch sockets and switches? Hmmm.... I would have to think hard about that. The geek in me yells YES. 20 years of commercial technical support rings warning bells. Ever heard of the touch sensor on a device failing? Will you be able to replace like with like in 5 years time?

Would I personally buy wall power sockets with USB2 outlets? I'm hoping the power sockets will be in use for 20+ years. I give the USB2 outlet on these sockets a 2-3 year useful life, so that would be a no from me.

“Don't believe anything you read on the net. Except this. Well, including this, I suppose.” Douglas Adams

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Ragnor

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#1774436 2-May-2017 16:56

Phone and device connection interfaces and specs are likely to continue to change fairly rapidly in the near future (unlike power sockets), imo this make USB wall sockets a poor investment long term.

sbiddle

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#1774490 2-May-2017 18:30

Ragnor:

Phone and device connection interfaces and specs are likely to continue to change fairly rapidly in the near future (unlike power sockets), imo this make USB wall sockets a poor investment long term.

Pretty much this. We're at the point now where USB-C is the norm - I don't think there will be anything but low end phones that don't use it in a year.

JoJo2

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#1776041 5-May-2017 09:06

Thanks so much for your awesome feedback. Given changing technology and the somewhat average power of the USB sockets (even though they're rated for more power, they seem to be lacking in actual output) I decided to go for regular wall plugs and get a multi port accessory to plug in. :)

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