Review of a Multi-Source Charger from Magellan's

I tested out a multi-source charger that is sold by Magellan's, known as the Accessory Power Trans4m USB Power Source, whose functions are to charge devices like cell phones, MP3 players, iPods, etc. - gadgets which can be charged via USB charging cables. It's to do so even without AC wall sockets; that is, it can use 9V or AA batteries, a DC 12-24V barrel besides the traditional AC plug (100-240V). Even though I was provided with this product from Magellan's, I wasn't required to recommend it. My observations are my own.

Review of the Multi-Source Charger Sold by Magellan's

This product measures out to be about 3" long, 1 ½" wide, and 1 ¾" high when all closed up, easily fitting in my hand. I first tried the 9V battery option by connecting the battery to the compatible terminal (bottom outside), and a red light from inside the charger came on. I then connected one of the three USB charging cables, that was compatible with my cell phone, to this device's side, and my cell phone began charging. The same result happened after I opened the top door to insert two AA batteries inside after flipping out the DC barrel. Next, I went to the car and plugged the DC barrel into the DC outlet of the car and got the same results.

And I also plugged the multi-source charger into an AC outlet, and the cell phone began charging as in the other cases. The product I got also came with one two-pronged round pin (125-250V) adaptor plug (for use in many European countries) as well as instructions. The cables are listed in the directions as MicroUSB Cable, MiniUSB Cable, and USB Cable for iPod/iPhone.

Actually, one can charge two different electronic devices with this gadget because there's actually two USB ports on its side. Because of the very compact size and its usefulness when one doesn't have an AC power outlet handy (such as when one is camping or if the electricity goes out), I do recommend this multi-source charger. It's important to make sure one has either fresh or fully-charged 9V and/or AA batteries handy for the best results, and to take them out when not charging something. Also note that this product doesn't charge batteries themselves.

More About the Multi-Source Charger

Currently, this travel product sells for $38.85 and can be purchased at this Magellan's weblink in which the description of this product is referred to as the "Multi-Source Charger with Adaptor Plugs" (Item # EA216). Contact Magellan's: 110 W. Sola St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Phone: 800-962-4943 (24/7). Website here.