Airplane power leads for laptops

[SMHarman]

Anyone know where you can get one of these cheap?

[andygrif]

There's no simple answer to this becuase it will depend on your laptop, but have a look here:

http://www.mdsbattery.co.uk/shop/pro...ctGroupID=1244

and

http://www.simply.co.uk/productinformation/68629/WW/APC_TRAVELPOWER_CASE_(SYNTHECTIC_LEATHER)/

The one from Simply is a good set, I can't vouch for the first one.

Also you need to make sure that the airline AND aircraft you're travelling on have in-seat power. Most airlines only put this feature in Business and First classes (Premium Economy if you're lucky) and even if the airline does offer it many older interiors haven't been upgraded to include it.

You can also buy them on-board, usually about 100 quid. Some airlines will also offer them for rental for the duration of your flight - again check with your carrier.

[SMHarman]

That first one is interesting, and at £35 good value.

http://www.mdsbattery.co.uk/shop/pro...ctGroupID=1319

The dilemma is do I buy that or the Dell specific one (above) for £15 more).

The dell one charges as well as powers and is obviously most compatible with the specific machine, but if I replace / lose / get another machine I would need a second.

Hmmm.

The other points, its BA Club World flat bed seats (most excellent what you can do with BA miles these days) so power is not a problem. BA don't seem to carry them on board, or offer a rental program.

Significant rip off difference between the onboard price and on ground price though!

Originally Posted by SMHarman

The dell one charges as well as powers

My experience is limited, but I know that neither BA nor Singapore Airlines will allow you to charge your lappy through their at-seat sockets and will insist you remove the battery before you plug in. If this is common policy among the airlines, it may not be worth spending extra for the re-charging feature.

[SMHarman]

Just saved me £15 then thanks.

[altis]

They appear to be worried about the batteries bursting into flames:
http://www.cnn.com/US/9804/03/laptop.fires/

...although I can't find anything that actually says the FAA implemented this request from the battery manufacturers.