Mobile devices are supposed to make life on the go easier and, for the most part, they do. But no matter how small or lightweight your notebook, PDA, or mobile phone is, you're still saddled with bulky AC adapter bricks to power and recharge them. Worse yet, your original power adapter might get lost or stolen, leaving you with a frustrating search for a compatible replacement.

Wouldn't it be great if you had a single slim, lightweight power adapter that worked with all your portable devices? Try the 240g Universal AC Adapter from Targus - a 12mm-thick panel with built-in surge protection that automatically senses the power needs of any device you attach to it. Using an appropriate power plug, it can work from mains power in the US, Europe or Australia, as well as many other places.

Included in the package is a set of removable power tips that plug into the adapter ports of most major makes and models of notebook PCs. These set the output voltage over a range of 2V to 24V at up to 70 watts, depending on the requirements of the portable unit that is being powered. You can buy additional tips for other electronic devices at $16.50 each - the first extra tip is free. If you want to be sure that your particular portable devices are covered, you can find a complete list of compatible products at the manufacturer's local Web site (www.targus.com.au).

The production unit I tried worked flawlessly on Dell and Fujitsu notebooks and two Nokia phones. Though it's pricey, the Targus Universal AC Adapter could become a necessary luxury. On a less positive note, those little tips look easy to lose, and you can recharge only one device at a time.

This flexible power adapter could be a worthwhile investment if you have three or more portable devices and don't want to carry bulky adapters for each.

Targus Universal AC Adapter

Price: $259; Power tips: first one is free, then $16.50 each; Phone: (02) 9807 1222; http:\\www.targus.com.au