Build Your Own Arcade Controls Forum
Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: MPTech on August 27, 2010, 01:55:29 pm
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I built my Arcade a few years ago and installed a Smart Powerstrip in it and really like it.
I'm currently working on a Digital Jukebox now and looking for Smart Powerstrip suggestions again. (I don't remember where I bought mine originally).
I did a search and came up with a great price on this one:
http://www.buy.com/prod/philips-6-outlets-surge-suppressor-receptacles-6-1080j/q/loc/111/210906304.html?adid=17654 (http://www.buy.com/prod/philips-6-outlets-surge-suppressor-receptacles-6-1080j/q/loc/111/210906304.html?adid=17654)
but they are are out-of-stock.
Any suggestions?
Thanks!
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My local walmart has one now that might be the same Philips that you linked to. I think it was $20 on the shelf, which is pretty decent.
You can also check your local Sears in the tool section, they usually have a similar controlled outlet for bench tools, or router tables, etc.
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Also, about a week ago, Buy.com had one that sensed 5v from a usb port to regulate the outlets. I think its only getting easier to find these type devices now, because they are marketting them as "green" devices.
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http://www.amazon.com/EcoStrip-1503E-Energy-Protector-Strip/dp/B003CFB9KA (http://www.amazon.com/EcoStrip-1503E-Energy-Protector-Strip/dp/B003CFB9KA)
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I get mine from SmartStrip (http://www.smarthomeusa.com/Shop/Smart-Strip/).
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I get mine from SmartStrip (http://www.smarthomeusa.com/Shop/Smart-Strip/).
I usually do too, but the Ecostrip was much cheaper for the equivalent USB version, and free shipping, so I decided to give it a try. Works just fine so far.
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Yep, that's what I have, a Smartstrip.
I checked out the USB version:
http://www.amazon.com/EcoStrip-1503E-Energy-Protector-Strip/dp/B003CFB9KA (http://www.amazon.com/EcoStrip-1503E-Energy-Protector-Strip/dp/B003CFB9KA)
seems good, but I don't understand the "USB"(?) (I'm guessing they are not talking about Universal Serial Bus)
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Yep, that's what I have, a Smartstrip.
I checked out the USB version:
http://www.amazon.com/EcoStrip-1503E-Energy-Protector-Strip/dp/B003CFB9KA (http://www.amazon.com/EcoStrip-1503E-Energy-Protector-Strip/dp/B003CFB9KA)
seems good, but I don't understand the "USB"(?) (I'm guessing they are not talking about Universal Serial Bus)
No, that is exactly what they are talking about.
Once it detects power coming from the USB port, then it powers on everything else. ;)
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ok, I'm kinda confused, so the PC has to be plugged into a Hot Socket, then a USB cable from the PC back to the SmartStrip?
Seemed simpler before (1 less cable), why is this better?
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ok, I'm kinda confused, so the PC has to be plugged into a Hot Socket, then a USB cable from the PC back to the SmartStrip?
Seemed simpler before (1 less cable), why is this better?
No worries about whether or not your PC provides enough load to trigger the smart strip. No need to tweak the adjustments so that it turns on correctly AND turns off when the PC shuts off (on true name brand smartstrips).
In short: plug and play.
And ideal for laptops, which would not trigger a standard smartstrip.
But hey, it's whatever you want, really. As I say, I use both types successfully.
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And ideal for laptops, which would not trigger a standard smartstrip.
Interesting... I have a bunch of laptops I took from work (they were throwing them out) and I've been wanting to use them for a MAME cab but wasn't sure how to get everything to power on. Now I just need to figure out the power button...
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And ideal for laptops, which would not trigger a standard smartstrip.
Interesting... I have a bunch of laptops I took from work (they were throwing them out) and I've been wanting to use them for a MAME cab but wasn't sure how to get everything to power on. Now I just need to figure out the power button...
The Irish / UK version of the powerstrip is called an intelliplug! They also have a regular one but its designed specifically for laptops!
http://www.oneclickpower.com/store/gbu0-prodshow/USB105.html (http://www.oneclickpower.com/store/gbu0-prodshow/USB105.html)
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Does anyone know where to get a good smart strip at a brick and mortar store? I see the smart strip brand online. And I see all the amazon links. But nothing that i can easily buy, try and easily return if it doesn't work.
I gave some $18.88 thing at Wal-Mart a shot but it had no sensitivity adjustment so it thought my PC was always on. I want one with adjustable sensitivity that I can grab at a big box store.
I saw that Radio Shack sells Smart Strips online only. I think they will ship to a store though for local pickup.
Anyways, any advice is appreciated. Also, if I can get one of those USB powered deals at a brick and mortar shop, let me know.
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i picked up a philips unit at walmart for $20 and it works great. there is no sensitivity adjustment, but it just works flawlessly. in my other cabinet i used a craftsman autoswitch, i picked it up at Sears for $20 a few years ago. it also has not adjustment, but it just worked great out of the box. the craftsman has less outlets though, and no cord (it is designed just to plug right into an outlet)
here is the one in my showcase cabinet:
(http://www.severdhed.com/images/arcade/showcase/IMG_2349.JPG)
here is the craftsman unit in my upright cabinet:
(http://s.sears.com/is/image/Sears/00924031000-1?hei=600&wid=600&op_sharpen=1&qlt=90,0&resMode=sharp&op_usm=0.9,0.5,0,0)
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00924031000P (http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00924031000P)
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I might give hte craftsman a shot. Sears .... good idea!