Plugs, cables and stuff [27.01.05]
By Jared Read
Given the terrible events that recently unfolded across Asia, it's hard to get in a lather about anything of a trivial nature. We are, in the scheme of things, very lucky. So in 2005, my determination is to be more positive and I will henceforth become known as Pollyanna.
However, there is just one thing I'd like to raise before I re-programme my mindset: chargers.
Like most people, I acquired a number of new electrical items over the Christmas period, namely an iPod (better late than never), a Bluetooth headset for my mobile phone, and a 1 million candlelight torch
All are absolutely fantastic (especially the torch, which I've put to good use sweeping for rabbits in the field at the back of my house). Sadly, all require charging at the mains.
That's not a problem, except the total number of items I possess that require recharging totals 21. In addition to the above, my inventory includes a dustbuster, Abmaster stomach exerciser, hedge-trimmer, nose-hair trimmer, strimmer, shaver, car bodywork buffer, mobile phone and laptop.
The resulting plugs, cables and transformers scattered around make the house look as though it's been invaded by a pit of vipers which are frantically trying to crawl into the cavity walls.
I should think myself lucky, however. I don't have kids. Most new-born infants are now presented with a mobile phone as soon as the umbilical cord is cut, which means that any household of more than two will haveinfinitely greater problems with charger overload.
The ludicrous nature of the situation hit home when a friend showed me round his almost-finished new build home. In the utility room, along with the usual plumbing point for the washer and space for the dryer, was a bank of 10 plug sockets. When I inquired what they were for, I was informed it was "the charging station" – de rigeur in all the best new properties, apparently.
If things go on at this rate, I’ll be forced to add a new extension to my own pad and install a substation.
Alternatively, I could get in touch with that moustachioed inventor who came up with the wind-up radio idea. Perhaps he can devise a similar no-batteries-required solution for my toe nail polisher...
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