The spring-loaded PumPing Tap concept that would eject electrical plugs from an outlet when not actively drawing electricity attracted a fair share of criticism from readers when we looked at it earlier this week. Bracktron has come up with a more practical solution with its line of GreenZero chargers that detect when the device being charged is unplugged or fully charged and automatically shut off to eliminate stand-by - also known as vampire power - consumption.
Bracketron's GreenZero line includes the Mushroom and Stone chargers. The first features a large green "mushroom" button that is pressed to start charging a connected device and will pop out when charging is complete. The underside of the mushroom button also acts as an integrated cable reel for taking on the road. The Mushroom charger is available in three models - one for USB connections, another for microUSB, and a third that includes an Apple 30-pin cable for iDevices. Meanwhile, the Stone GreenZero charger is a more compact unit designed for mobile devices charged via USB. However, the design of both the Mushroom and Stone chargers suggests they might be outlet hogs on a power strip.
Rounding out Bracktron's GreenZero line is the Stone Battery. It is a portable power supply designed to power up mobile devices on the go. The 1000 mAmp battery will charge mobile devices for up to three hours with an LED indicator letting you know when the device is fully charged, at which point it will automatically switch off. Bracketron offers two models, one with an embedded cable for microUSB devices and the second with an Apple 30 pin cable for iPhone, iPod and iPod touch.
Bracketron will be showcasing its GreenZero line at CES 2012, before a U.S. release in March. The Mushroom chargers will be priced from US$24.95 to $29.28, while the Stone charger will retail for $22.56.
