Targus (http://www.targus.com) has announced new compact chargers for laptops, netbooks and other mobile devices such as smartphones, cell phones, iPads, iPods, MP3 players, and portable game players. They can charge multiple devices simultaneously at home, in the office, on the road, in an airplane, boat or car.

The new line of laptop chargers are designed to be versatile as well as eco-friendly. With the Tips from Targus program, the chargers can be upgraded to work with other mobile devices in the household, or new laptops purchased in the future at no charge (shipping and handling fees apply).  In addition, the product has been designed with next generation technology to dramatically reduce the size and provide a flexible, modular platform for different types of usage modes and charging needs.

The elimination of the AC cord, for example, not only reduces bulk when traveling, but also allows the power adapter to be out of the way when being used at home or the office, says Carolyn Perrier, vice president of product management and marketing at Targus headquarters. The product also requires 60% less materials to build and package than current adapters, and combined with its ability to upgrade, makes it the most eco friendly power adapter on the market today, he adds.  

Half the size and weight of typical AC/DC charger, the Targus Premium Laptop Charger includes nine laptop tips, one mini-USB tip and one iPad/iPhone/iPod/iPod touch charging tip. Included with the AC charger is a separate DC charger that plugs directly into a cigarette lighter and also charges two devices simultaneously. The AC charger features an integrated rotating plug, which allows the charger to sit vertically into a power strip without blocking other outlets. The Premium Laptop Charger, which includes both the AC and DC chargers is available for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $169.99.

The Compact Laptop Charger is half the size and weight of a typical AC charger and provides simultaneous charging of most laptop brands and a low-power devices. The APA69CA is compatible with most  HP, Dell, Sony, Lenovo, IBM, Panasonic, Compaq, Acer, Asus, Gateway and Fujitsu laptops. This charger includes a mini-USB tip for low-power devices like a BlackBerry and has an iPad/iPhone/iPod/iPod touch connector available for shipping and handling fees.  The Compact Laptop Charger measures 2.73 x 0.78 x 4.5 inches, weighs 11.6 ounces and is available for f $99.99.

Targus’ new Netbook Charger supports a wide array of leading netbook brands plus charges one additional low power device at the same time. The AC charger is compatible with netbooks by leading manufacturers such as Acer, Asus, Compaq, Dell, HP, IBM, Lenovo, MSI and Samsung. It measures 2.73 x 0.78 x 4.5 inches, weighs 11.5 ounces and is available for $89.99. The design also allows the charger to simultaneously charge a low power device including a smartphone, iPad/iPhone/iPod touch/iPod or other low-power device.

The Mobile Laptop Charger is the lightest and most compact DC charger on the market today, says Perrier. The charger can be used as an additional charger when you’re working in the car or on an extended flight or train ride. The DC charger includes eight laptop tips and one mini-USB tip. It measures 3.5 inches long, weighs 6.9 ounces and is available for $89.99.