I've been thinking that adding some auxiliary DC power outlets to computers would be a good idea. So many things require little power bricks these days, and it would be much nicer to consolidate the process.
I know it's been done in a few cases. One of the Sony VAIO laptops at work has a DC output. I may have actually gotten the idea via osmosis from sitting next to the thing for a few days straight.
At any rate, it wouldn't be too difficult to do—two of the most common voltages for power bricks (5V and 12V) are the main power levels already supplied inside a computer. Heck, in many cases, a computer PS would produce a much more clean and reliable voltage than those black cancers that fit somewhere between the wall and your favorite little device.
I've been fretting so much about getting paid that I've almost forgotten how to spend money. I just remembered a moment ago to pay my cable bill (due tomorrow). Hopefully I'll get back in the cycle of things now that my checking account is happy again.
I need to debate several items on my to-do list. I'd like to get a replacement PDA—especially a nice one—but I am getting nervous about plunking down a lot of cash for that. So, I'll have to see what's available in the medium to low end of the scale.
I don't think I've bought any clothes since about this time last year, so that will have to change. There are various other things, like getting a microwave (my brother's is returning to him soon), a stand for that, and possibly some cabinets or drawers for organizing some of my computer junk. I may have already mentioned that something other than a card table for kitchen dining would be nice.
Anyway, I suspect my checking account will take a bit of a beating this weekend, but it shouldn't be too bad. Fortunately, reinforcements will be coming in on a regular basis for at least the next few months.
Posted by mike at August 12, 2003 08:47 PM | Abode , Hardware , Money | TrackBack