Now you're thinking.

[barryb]

I feel this is a nifty idea, and one I might have to delve into:

http://store.fastmac.com/product_info.php?products_id=458

http://store.fastmac.com/contents/image.php?sizex=160&sizey=213.333333333&image[0]=images/products/usc_outlet.jpg&

[wilbur_the_goose]

Very cool - I'm definitely interested, especially considering the <$10 price.

[PokerJoker]

I note that they are still awaiting UL approval.

Isn't there a section of the code that prohibits high voltage and low voltage in the same box? Wonder how they got around that. The USB power supply must be totally enclosed within the outlet itself.

And true, it only costs $10, but it looks to me like the average non-handyman Joe is going to have to hire an electrician to put it in, meaning a $200 (or more) service call. Might be OK if he installs a dozen of them at one go, to spread the cost, but it still seems to me like a solution in search of a problem.

Keith

[Cholly]

They claim that no power is being used if no devices are connected to the USB ports, while at the same time saying that 5 vdc @ 600 ma. is available. It seems to me that even with a transformerless power supply there would be/ some current drawn. I would doubt that UL would approve any low voltage supply that doesn't have some form of isolation, even if it's built into the outlet body.

[rudeney]

Maybe there is a physical (or electronic) switch inside that does not engage the transformer until a USB plug is inserted.

[Herdfan]

Isn't there a section of the code that prohibits high voltage and low voltage in the same box? Wonder how they got around that.

Yes and no. The NEC allows for both high and low voltage in the same box if the LV is there to control the HV. Plus the LV wire has to meet a certain rating.

The concern with having both type in a box is that the HV will jump to the LV and shock someone at another location. For example, a coax that shares a box with an outlet, becomes energized. It then shocks someone hooking up a TV in another room.

Since in this case, the entire USB port is enclosed, there is no risk of the HV current going elsewhere.

[smiddy]

Whoa, I like this!