PowerBar USB, unstable voltage from USB ports
I am writing this review in english, because I don't understand dutch.
Allocacoc powercubes etc. are sold in Denmark mainly from the DIY chain "Bauhaus" which also may be the case in other countries.
This review is on one of the newer Allocacoc products, namely the "PowerBar USB".
The product is a combination of two Euro CEE 7/16 sockets for 220V powersupply, and two USB ports rated at 5V-DC/2.1A.
It is all very nicely designed and because of it's compactness it fits in everywhere.
I have tested the USB ports with Apple's Iphone 5 and an ipad from same vendor, and there where no problems with charging those devices from the USB ports.
The reason why the PowerBar USB can not get five stars, is because the voltage from the USB ports drops below 4.75 volts when used as a powersource for the Raspberry Pi. The device triggers a low-voltage warning signal.
A minor voltagedrop is normally no big consideration, when charging smartphones, tablets, powerpacks and the like, where current is a more important issue.
Nevertheless other types of devices such as the Raspberry Pi, Chromecast and other processordriven devices are sensitive to voltage fluctuations.
Hopefully focus on stable 5V/DC voltage will be in focus on future designs from Allocacoc, to the benefit of Raspberry Pi users across Europe.





