Even if you don't have a Samsung i730 or one of the Mac Media supported devices I think this review will give you some ideas on syncing and charging your phone with less bulky equipment. Recently I bought the Samsung factory USB sync cable for my Samsung i730 PPC/phone. I was very disappointed to find out that the cable did not also charge the phone while connected to my laptop. I spent over $20 on a heavy, bulky one trick pony. Frustrated with the factory sync cable, I started to do a little searching and I found a web comment on sync-cables by Kent from Mac Media USA. Kent suggested I try their sync-cable for the Samsung i730. The Mac Media cable was only $12.95 and it allows for data connection and USB charging.
I also added the Mac Media PowerFlex Charger ($19.95) which is discussed below. Mac Media carries sync-cables for a number of devices.
Let's start with the sync-cable. Shown in the first photo is the 3ft long retractable sync-cable. Just pull on both ends to extend the cable to whatever length you want up to 3ft. Give each end a little tug to retract the unit. A nice, compact well constructed cable with retractor.
The second photo shows the Mac Media Sync-Cable next to the disappointing
Samsung data cable. There is quite a difference in how much room is taken up in
your brief case, pocket or bag.
Photo 3 shows the two sync cables extended. The Samsung is 4 ft long so it has a little more
reach. I really do not need the extra reach, however Mac media does make a 4ft
straight cable for the i730.
Next grab the PowerFlex charger. It works in both AC and DC mode so one charger is all you
need in the car, office, hotel or home. The unit is well designed. It has little
tabs to make pulling out the AC adapter easy. You pull the end cover off for the
car charger option. Charge time seemed faster than the
factory charger. The unit costs $19.95.
Okay, so you travel and you want a sync-cable for connection to your PC, you
want a car charger for charging on the road, you need a wall charger for
charging at night and you don't like tangles, weight and bulk. Take your
Mac Media retractable sync cable and your PowerFlex charger. The Mac Media
equipment on the left equals all that expensive factory gear on the right. I
know what I am packing for my next trip.
Have you ever been at the airport and you need to charge your phone. You spot an AC outlet but there is nothing to set your phone on or protect it from some bigfoot trampling it. Try this configuration with your PowerFlex and sync cable at your own risk. No cable laying around and the phone is off the ground. This is my own approach, I can't say Mac Media would approve. But sometimes you just need a charge.
In summary the Mac Media retracteable sync cable and PowerFlex charger are useful and cost effective accessories for your device. The PowerFlex can be used with most USB cables. I wish I had seen these items before I bought a Samsung Car Charger and data cable. I could have saved myself over $20.
Mac Media offers a no questions asked return policy. They are a quality web vendor and I like their cost effective sync and power options. You can order from Mac Media at Mac Media
Regards,
abatis