USB connections have come a long way since their only use was for connecting a printer to a computer or charging up a smartphone. Indeed, the options are so varied now that USB devices carry the potential to drasically change the workplace or at least make it more stimulating. After all, why stop at charging devices when you can use a USB connection to power a lava lamp, warm your coffee or lob (imaginary) missiles at your colleagues?
Here are some of the more innovative office uses of USB-powered devices:
- LIGHT UP YOUR OFFICE - If you think the lighting in your office is boring, consider spicing up your PC with some light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Cheaper models start at 10 euros (10.95 dollars), but there are more expensive ones that can be programmed or run by remote control.
For the same amount of money, consider lava lamps to really jazz things up on your desk. Also, remember, while you're making things prettier, USB hubs don't have to be boring either. Satzuma offers them in multiple shapes, from octopi to skulls.
- GET THE TEMPERATURE RIGHT - Can your office get too warm the summer? Consider USB powered fans, which start at about 10 euros.
Alternately, if you want to keep things warm, consider gloves and slippers that can be heated (15 euros apiece) or drink warmers (about 10 euros). And, if it's a cold beverage you seek, USB-powered mini refrigerators are available, costing about 30 euros, usually with enough space for precisely one can or bottle.
- WHEN YOU NEED SOME DOWN TIME - It never fails! you take a moment to goof off with YouTube and that's the moment your boss pops up. That's why Dream Cheeky came up with the Big Red Button (20 euros), which makes everything disappear from your screen with one touch.
Another relaxing moment you might not want to tell your colleagues about (even if they'll find out anyways), is a tiny rocket launcher. A variety of models are available from different manufacturers, each able to fire foam balls at your colleagues. They run about 25 euros.
For less illicit thrills, consider a massage ball or pen powered via a USB cord (about 10 euros). Taking it to the extreme, there's a USB stress ball from GetDigital for 30 euros one can use to virtually crush annoying mails and documents.
POWER UP - Battery packs for delivering power via USB are available in a wide array of shapes and sizes. Radbag sells one shaped like a petrol canister, for 30 euros. It also sells its Mighty Power Wallet, for 100 euros, which is literally a wallet with a built-in battery.
Another option is a USB cell. These sell for about 10 euros and look like normal batteries. The twist is that these batteries are recharged at a USB port.
Given that so many of these items cost so little, it's easy for consumers to snap them up without giving them too much thought. Still, customers should make sure that the items are well-constructed. After all, many of them will be conducting electricity.
Juergen Ripperger of the German Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies (VDE) warns that an improperly insulated USB can lead to problems with older notebooks and USB connections. In some cases, fires are even possible.
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