Computer,Music,Books

Griffin PowerBlock AC Wall Charger for iPod, iPhone 1G, and Other USB Devices (White)

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Product Features:

Power and charge almost any iPod from a wall outlet

Type-A, flat-blade plug design for international use and multi-outlet configurations

Compact and ideal for business and other travel

Includes USB-to-dock cable that can be disconnected for use with a computer

Fully compatible with iPhone

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Technical Details:

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Customer Reviews:

Comes with iPod DATA cable, cost effective, versatile - works as advertised!

Griffin Power Block review for Griffin P/N: 9772-PWRBLKW

The Griffin Power Block carries a retail price of approximately the same as Apple's AC (Alternating Current) to USB charging adapter, but if you look around you will find the Power Block available for much less than the retail price. I will have to admit that I considered buying Apple's charging adapter because of its extremely compact size (about the same dimensions as a child's wooden playing block), but I decided to buy the Griffin Power Block since it comes with an extra iPod data-sync cable. This cable is not just for charging the batteries of all iPods, but is a fully functional data cable that you can use to sync your iPods. Many modern portable devices are powered by the +5 VDC regulated through the USB bus, so the Griffin's AC adapter can also act as a fully functional charger for devices such as GPS units or competing media players.

I evaluated the Power Block using a 2nd generation iPod shuffle, iPod Touch (Firmware 1.1.5), and a Tom Tom One XL GPS unit. The Griffin Power Block is a rapid charger but I did not detect exorbitant amounts of heat generated from either the AC adapter or the device. I used another Griffin FM transmitter that doubles as a USB charging point for use in a car (+12 VDC) and that unit generated a ferocious amount of heat during charging. The Griffin Power Block stays relatively cool throughout the charging process. It charged up the shuffle, Touch, and Tom Tom without any drama or problems. In fact, the Griffin Power Block is even capable of fully charging up a 2nd generation iPod shuffle. The LEDs on the Shuffle and Power Block will turn GREEN once the Shuffle is fully charged, indicating the Griffin has some type of smart charging circuitry.

The Griffin AC adapter is compatible with 120 VAC and 240 VAC systems, so you can take it with you on your international travels without worrying about compatibility with foreign outlets. The two prongs fold away, giving the AC adapter a compact profile that is easy to store in your pocket or bag. The prongs are supposedly non-polarized, so you can plug it "upside down" in an outlet without having to mess around with finding the correct orientation.

Pros: For the same price of an official Apple adapter, you get an extra data cable. The adapter is light, sleek, and versatile.

Cons: It is slightly larger than the new pint-sized Apple charger, and doesn't carry the Apple branding or logo.

Overall: It works as advertised and was compatible with every USB device I tried. I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars!

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