Laptop Ques. for Ye Geeks and Urban Warriors

Gentlemen:

Thank you for the added insights!

Chris – I found the Kensington model for my Acer Aspire One netbook. The 38047 model is smaller (but a fraction of an ounce heavier) and costs just $30 on Amazon. I think the one bad thing about these adapters is that they are not user serviceable. One bad zap and the whole unit can be toast!! In contrast, I know some surge protectors have a fuse inside that users can change out.

John — Makes perfect sense, but I hate to lug extra gear. As above, it would be wonderful if the Kensington adapter has changeable fuse. Sigh.

Rakesh – my UL netbook does not have a built-in CD/DVD drive. I think having a duplicate set of data (hard drive and SD card) will be good enough.

I've just added an AC adapter (Kensington Model 38047) with both surge protector and a USB charging port — all for the same weight and bulk as my Acer AC adapter alone. Thanks, Chris!

Coming to this idea a bit late, but did you think about a solar charger at all? Bypass the local electricity altogether.

A solar charger will be impractical for me. I can just see myself begging for a south-facing hotel room all the time. I also wouldn't want to leave my electronics exposed and unattended all through the day while I explore town (nor would I want to waste time guarding them while they charge). Finally, having a solar panel hanging off my day pack while exploring town or doing day hikes would be weird and also inefficient.

Compared to an adapter that weighs just 7-8oz, I reckon there wouldn't be much weight saving. And after paying for a room, electricity is free (though potentially erratic and threatening). :)

Happy to be of assistance Ben!

For 3plus change ounces here's a replaceable fuse and plug adapter all in one .
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834997740&cm_re=universal_notebook_charger-_-34-997-740-_-Product

Asked my local genius and here was his reply: "Hm.. the DC side will be a pain to splice, because I think on laptop bricks it’s usually coaxial wire (center [+] electrode with [-] shielding/surround). That and you’re introducing a longer small-gauge run into the high-amperage (low-voltage) side of the transformer — could feasibly cause problems with throughput, though probably not."