Inflight USB: Power for you gadgets from an audio jack

The Inflight USB Power Unit connects directly to the headphone jack found in most commercial airlines. The unit passes power to your gadgets via a USB connection. It would be better if every seat had a power jack (Air Canada’s A320 does!), but instead we are stuck with audio jacks. It uses and ingenious trickle charge system to charge it’s own internal batteries before passing on the power to your device, and it works best if the audio jack is playing some loud music.

Now this little unit won’t power your laptop or anything that is big, but it’s perfect for your iPod, cell phone, or PSP. The basic unit will draw you for about $35, and you can purchase iPod and mini B connectors.

Frank's the editor in chief of tech.nocr.at. He can be found surfing the internet and playing with gadgets. Follow him on twitter @franklinhares