Power inverters aren’t exactly what we consider to be a “sexy” gadget. They’re generally ugly boxes that look duller than Kevin Rudd’s iPod music collection, yet are really something that no gadget fan should go without on long drives. The new 100W Auto Power Inverter from Targus is the first inverter I’ve seen that actually has some kind of function in its design, in that it’s shaped to fit into most cars’ cup holders.
Today Kensington introduces several new power products to its Power It lineup, including a new Portable Power Pack for Mobile Devices ($59), Wall Ultra Portable Notebook Adapter, Wall/Auto/Air Ultra Portable Notebook Adapter ($139, with plenty of tips to fit most Windows laptops), and the awesome Auto Power Inverter with USB port for car lighter jacks ($39). Plug anything into your lighter, no other fancy adaptor needed, and you’re golden: it has auto shut-off so it won’t drain your car’s battery, and its circuitry will protect your devices from a bad automotive electrical system.