Kickstarter - Plug Hub: Australian Universal USB Power Adapter

Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 03/12/2015 - 10:05
Last edited 07/12/2015 - 10:33 by 1 other user

Hi OZB community, not sure if i can post this but shall give it a try. After a year of Development today I launched my new product on Kickstarter - PlugHub. I would love to hear from the community and get some feedback on what they think of the product and any changes they recommend. If admins allow it i would also love to setup a deal exclusive for OZB members, let me know what sort of deal you want. Looking forward to your support and feedback.

Thanks

Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/857387852/plug-hub-aust…

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PlugHub15/

Update: 1pm AEST today 7/12/15 i am going to post a deal for OZB members to buy a Plug Hub. I have around 40 in stock i can part way with and hopefully once people have them in hand i can get some more feedback.

Electrical & Electronics

Related Stores

plughub.com.au
plughub.com.au

Comments

    • SlartiBartFozz on 04/12/2015 - 13:59

      Allocacoc PowerCube only gives a total 2.1A, while the OP's unit is 3.5A — if both devices are charging at once, that could make a big difference to how long they take to charge.

  • Azn310 on 03/12/2015 - 21:50

    What about surge protection as another selling point?

    I'm also a cheapskate, so i wouldnt spend money on these items until my charger stuff up

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 03/12/2015 - 23:15

      Surge protection does come built in but seems to be very standard these days. #cheapskate

      • Azn310 on 04/12/2015 - 12:36

        Oh sorry my bad, upon second look at the packaging, you already have it. Well, good luck!

  • wyrmy on 03/12/2015 - 22:16
    +2

    Does it have quick charge? High Amps alone is no longer the winning criteria. With phones from next year QC will become more standard.

    • Clear on 04/12/2015 - 11:19

      Would be hard for someone starting off to get Quick Charge 1/2/3 from Qualcomm officially.

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 03/12/2015 - 23:16

      Can you get a larger model? would look good on the kitchen bench

    • a1234my on 07/12/2015 - 14:16

      2.4A/port * 16 = 38.4A ?? from a computer / 1 phase (house) ??!!

      • XeSSiV on 07/12/2015 - 15:08

        That's DC buddy… Hence the 192 watt AC draw displayed.

  • Hirolol on 03/12/2015 - 22:45
    -2

    Im just thinking about where i could use this in my house but im notreally sure…
    Maybe in the kitchen?

    Ive got a new idea.
    How about making one with a speaker in it?
    There are times when i want to listen to music while in the kitchen but sometimes i cant hear my phone over the loud noises.
    The holder could come in handy too so its not sitting on anything getting dirty.

    Other than kitchen i cant think of any other uses for it as most power points in my house have tables or shelves in the way.

    What if i want to charge 2 power banks, will they sit on it properly and not fall off?
    What about a powerbank and a tablet?

    Every smartphone/tablet comes with their own charger these days.
    So im not sure why anyone would want to shell out an extra $30+ for this and in this day and age where everyone is trying to get the cheapest product, i and many others would agree that its too expensive.

    I will say good on you for coming up with this and try to invent new ideas but i really dont think this will be a massive hit.

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 03/12/2015 - 23:20
      +3

      Thanks for your feedback, just isnt enough room for a speaker. I use a bluetooth speaker in my kitchen and have a plughub installed on the wall. People i have given the device to all have installed in there kitchen and love the convenience of charging while cooking etc. Keeps devices off the bench and doesnt take away any power outlets. It might not be for everyone but i personally use it and like its convenience and design.

  • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 03/12/2015 - 23:24

    "If admins allow it i would also love to setup a deal exclusive for OZB members, let me know what sort of deal you want"

    I hear a lot of it too expensive…….i can setup an exclusive deal for OZB members if allowed?

    • GameChanger on 03/12/2015 - 23:35

      You're allowed to post any deal you want, but of course the price point matters most on a site like OzBargain.

      But don't you need to raise $50,000 first before been able to produce some inventory?

      • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 09:07

        Its about helping an Australian Startup, if i reach my target i can have stock to hit the market and retail. The price point is set by the Margins stores like Bunnings need and after comparing Similar products. I am more then happy to sell x amount to the OZB community at a wholesale price just for there support and to help me reach my goal.

        Thank you to those who have given me positive feedback and support.

        • T0KY0 on 04/12/2015 - 10:01
          +3

          So, you're an Australian Startup. Congrats.

          Are your products manufactured in Australia too?
          Or are you just getting batches made in China and shipped here?

          P.S. Kickstarter isn't just for free advertising. You're doing it wrong. If you'd listed this thing at concept stage, then it might have been appropriate.

        • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 11:20

          @T0KY0: I already paid for everything through concept stage out of my own pocket. I cannot manufacture in australia due to the costs. Look at the backlash i am getting over the $30 price tag, it would be $100 to make in Australia.

          I am in talks with buyers from some of the largest retailers who love the product and concept. When they give me a large purchase order can i come to you for funding? I need kickstarter to give me stock to sell and to forfill orders.

          When you see PlugHub sitting on the shelf and being promoted in the large retail chains you might appreciate all the hard work i have put into this product.

        • GameChanger on 04/12/2015 - 12:18
          +2

          @rodgo: Sorry but you don't need $50k worth of stock. You might be in talks but it's another thing if consumers buy it. One of the biggest fallacy 'entrepreneurs' face is that they think their product has demand.

        • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 12:29
          -2

          @GameChanger: 50k worth of stock is nothing. This doesnt include for-filling the kickstarter orders. OZB community might not find this a bargain but the consumer will buy this product.

        • GameChanger on 04/12/2015 - 12:33
          +1

          @rodgo: What are you basing this on? How many people have you sold this to so far?

        • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 12:40

          @GameChanger: Im going on meetings i have had with large retail buyers and the promotions they want to put in place. Its an Impulse buy product, meaning you see it at the end of an aisle and think that's nifty and buy.

        • GameChanger on 04/12/2015 - 12:52
          +6

          @rodgo: Best of luck with your product. But from everything I have read, it's going to be a flop from your lack of research. Retailers will stock it, but when the product doesn't move it will be dumped pretty fast.

          And I'm not basing this on your pricing, rather on the benefits it brings compared to the competition. Your product is facing competition risk as its not a product that's unique like you might think.

        • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 13:51
          +1

          @GameChanger: Thanks for your feedback, time will tell.

        • ChickenTalon on 04/12/2015 - 15:43
          +2

          @rodgo: in support of Rodgo. Stocking initially is a huge PITA and there are huge consequences if you do happen to run out of supply for a major retailer. 50k worth of store fill is nothing.

        • plague69 on 06/12/2015 - 01:08
          +6

          @rodgo: Bargain, it ain't. Sales, you will have.

          But I would think OZB represents a good portion of the Australian community at this stage, and we will only get more OZB like after the industries slow and close whilst the government has not a clue in the world, but that is a debate for another day.

          Anyway, feel free to listen to OZB or tell yourself we are only a small group of tight wallet people who sit in front of the computer clipping coupons all day. I understand this is something you created and reading all these negative comments about your creation is like reading them about yourself. Gotta step back, have a look at the bigger picture. Well done for taking action. Its more than what most people do.

        • snook on 08/12/2015 - 16:52

          @rodgo: I'm not gonna implulse buy at $30.

  • [Deactivated] on 03/12/2015 - 23:32
    +3

    Haven't we ozbargained this already?
    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/156485

  • ShamelessBargains on 03/12/2015 - 23:44

    Nice idea but the price point is too high.

    Have you considered pitching to Shark Tank Australia for more exposure?

    • SlartiBartFozz on 04/12/2015 - 14:22
      +1

      Shark Tank is ruthless, probably killed more startups than they have helped.

    • [Deactivated] on 06/12/2015 - 12:22

      Shark Tank is not somewhere I would go with my biggest and brightest ideas.

  • ozscharfschutze on 04/12/2015 - 02:10
    +3
    1. The plug is not centered so weight distribution would be uneven.
    2. Most of the time I try to hide my ugly powerpoints, this thing does nothing for powerpoint aesthetics so it's still an ugly powerpoint.
  • allenhori on 04/12/2015 - 08:45
    +7

    such a big housing and the outlet is still as close as the original ones, still won't fit 2 big adaptors, NO THANKS.

  • [Deactivated] on 04/12/2015 - 09:03
    +7

    Wouldn't buy. Don't see how it could benefit me.

    • [Deactivated] on 06/12/2015 - 12:23
      +1

      Thanks for your input.
      Please hold the line, as your call is important to us.

  • Kezzam on 04/12/2015 - 09:11

    I like the idea. Have you considered a silver option? Also another thought… It would be cool to integrate a power point data connection like these…
    http://www.cnet.com/au/topics/networking/best-networking-dev…

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 09:19

      I definitely want more colours, but the cost of production would increase again. For the moment i did a matt white/Black as i thought these 2 colours would be most popular.

      A data point would be nice or i thought about adding a powermat into the top so you could charge without any cables.

  • Ryanek on 04/12/2015 - 09:23
    +7

    There are a lot of re-branded Aliexpress products trying to passed off on Kickstarter, but this doesn't appear to be the case. It seems to me OP is just a guy trying his best to bring his own product out to market. When I have friends over there are often many phones hanging precariously off wall chargers so I would have a use for this product. I'm afraid right now it's all about the price point. I wish you luck mate.

    • T0KY0 on 04/12/2015 - 10:06

      I hang one of these
      -> http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/272022514846
      on my powerpoint, phone inside. Safe, snug, and Santa might even replace it with a new model later this month…

      • Oofy Doofy on 04/12/2015 - 15:39
        +1

        I'm sorry to tell to this, but… Santa isn't real. Your family lied to you. You will get through the sadness though, it just takes some time. Call Lifeline if you feel unsafe or need to talk to someone.

        • banana365 on 04/12/2015 - 19:39
          +1

          Lies!

          <fingers in ears> LA LA LA NOT LISTENING!!!!!

        • supnigs super skids on 04/12/2015 - 19:58

          You never left a glass of milk nearby did you?

        • Oofy Doofy on 04/12/2015 - 21:26

          @dtnvong: For some reason my Dad always insisted on leaving out a glass of Baileys Irish Cream, which now of course as an adult, I figured out his game.

        • SlickMick on 04/12/2015 - 23:32

          Santa is more real that a lot of other stuff we're expected to believe in

        • [Deactivated] on 06/12/2015 - 12:24

          @SlickMick:

          Like… politicians?

  • diddy50 on 04/12/2015 - 10:06
    +7

    When you pull a power plug out of one of the power points, does it pull the plug hub out of the wall point as well?

    I yank my toaster or kettle plug out of the wall. If this was in the kitchen, would the plug hub pull out as well with this motion?

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 11:22

      I have tested many tapes that sit on the reverse side of the plughub. I found one that has heaps of grip but when you pull it very hard you can release it from the existing wall plate. I am confident when you pull a plug out it wont remove the plughub.

  • maverickjohn on 04/12/2015 - 10:13
    +2

    Id work on the design a little, maybe curve the board around the edges to look like a dome that way you don't have an ugly block sticking out of the wall, and it can also wrap around the original outlet.
    I'm genuinely interested in this, and don't listen to the haters. Keep up the good work, its people like Tyler who stop entrepreneurs and new ideas. Even if its a design that exists don't let your ideas stop flowing. ;)

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 11:23

      So keep the cavity but curve the design to make it look a little different to a standard wall plate "Square"

      not a bad idea…..thanks

      • [Deactivated] on 05/12/2015 - 18:22

        I wouldn't. I tend to think you'll get two types of buyers:

        1. Someone who hates the look of power points.
        2. Someone who doesn't even think about it.

        The first person will still buy the product, if it does what they want - even though it looks the same as a power point. Because without one, that's what they already see anyway - the power point.

        The second person who doesn't think about it - will - once they notice it looks different.

  • kusama on 04/12/2015 - 10:14

    I don't really need one, maybe sometime in the future.

  • troyww on 04/12/2015 - 10:34

    For those saying the price is too high I don't get it . It cost me $80 each for HPM legrand double power points with USB plus installation . They are quite flimsy IMHO and no where near the quality I expected them to be at that price point . Being an Ozbargainer I did look at getting some from china but just wasn't prepared to risk it . The Chinese ones I looked at even had upside down sockets …
    The real win here is that it won't cost you $100 to have it installed . These are great for the kitchen bench and I'll get a couple for friends .
    The main problem I see with these is that when you pull a plug out the whole unit will detach from the existing power point , Is there some mechanism to prevent that happening ?

    We already have them over our benchtops and keep the cords in the drawer . If they had a retractable cord that would make these a true solution for charger mess .

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 11:25

      Thanks for your feedback. I think the dbl sided tape i have fitted to the pad on the reverse side is enough to hold the plughub in place. As it sticks to an existing plastic wall plate you get a very tight attachment.

      Maybe i can send you a sample to test? :)

      thanks

      • troyww on 04/12/2015 - 11:47

        That would be awesome .

        • troyww on 04/12/2015 - 11:49

          I'll give it the pepsi challenge against the HPM Legrand .

        • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 11:58

          @troyww: Easy win for the Plug Hub :)

          Email me you address and i will send you a sample. [email protected]

          cheers

        • troyww on 04/12/2015 - 13:07

          @rodgo:
          Done .
          Look forward to giving it a run .
          32 …

        • Dollarsandsense on 05/12/2015 - 23:21

          @troyww: careful what you poke into the power points while blind folded..

        • GameChanger on 05/12/2015 - 23:37

          @Dollarsandsense: Human power points?

  • lethalmoney on 04/12/2015 - 11:07
    +5

    awesome idea mate. Sorry to hear you've copped so much criticism. Keep innovating the little things in life that people need/want and youll get there. As an electrician, i have no need for this, but i just wanted to show some support for you.

    Good luck making your goal !

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 11:26

      Im a builder mate and installing USB powerpoints seems to be the norm these days. Problem is all those old Powerpoints being under used. Appreciate the feedback…..Thanks

  • zombie hunter on 04/12/2015 - 12:36
    +1

    I think is a good idea.
    Yes you can get the power points with USB built. When they die you will have to get a electrician to come and replace it at what cost ?
    It will appeal to people who have OCD and like clean solution unclutered where it will sell.
    Not to the untidy cheapskate ozbargainers on this site…..

  • skinner on 04/12/2015 - 13:19

    Is this really universal? Looks like the spacing on the back/inside is sized to fit a "standard" wall socket (eg. the fat looking ones in your videos). We have slimline ones in our house that sit much more flush to wall, same as many of our friends. Older sockets that I've seen are also different again (eg. at my parents 40 year old house).

    With that spacing I would imagine the plugs on the Plug Hub would not fully insert on many wall sockets which would surely be a safety hazard.

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 13:53

      Im affraid it wont work with the Slimline series of Powerpoints that are installed into most new builds. It will only universally fit standard powerpoints which are your boring old school fat ones.

      thanks

  • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 14:00
    +2

    For those asking too add an on/off switch i have spoken to the engineers and it can be done. Problem is i would need to open a new mold, apply for certification again and production/assembly costs would go up even more. I really dont think it is worth it.

    • stirlo on 04/12/2015 - 16:57
      +2

      It's not.

  • zealmax on 04/12/2015 - 14:26

    I hope you do well with the product, good too see some Aussie inventions. I can see a problem losing 1 of your 2 power points from the wall. Some are cabled so that you can use higher amps by using 2 power points. Also if you have EoP then one power outlet is a lot of realestate to lose.

  • [Deactivated] on 04/12/2015 - 14:39
    +2

    It looks nice but I'm a bit concerned about putting on that much weight off the 3 pins holding it into the socket.

  • kev98 on 04/12/2015 - 15:06

    I don't know why there are so many negative comments. I think $30 is reasonable price and having spots to place phone on top would be handy.

    My only comment is you should include switches as others have mentioned, especially if people will place them in their kitchens. Otherwise, good work!

  • Tarnos on 04/12/2015 - 15:07

    Hmm, I don't really understand the logic of the Kickstarter. It looks like your product is ready and also the packaging is ready. Pledgers get a product that you already have? How is that different to selling the item direct? I would say better off just setting a RRP, setting a discount of it and post it here.

    I am guessing what you are really after is a "shark" as in like in Shark Tank.

  • anonymous01 on 04/12/2015 - 15:29
    +1

    Hello.. I like the idea of slot on top. As few people have mentioned, the ability to connect to a power board is a must.. if I could make one modification, it would be this:

    1: The 3 pin plug on your device, which is to be inserted into the power plug, must have the ability to be pulled out and retracted back, whether use a mechanism similar to this (mechanism must be inside the box, hidden): http://ambitronic.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/80…

    or this (The canal on the left side, in which cable can be placed or pulled out.. in this case mechanism should be outside at the back of the device):

    http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XNIhixl6te8/Vhq2Qh1t8HI/AAAAAAAACu…

    Also, the power plugs which are usually hidden behind a desk, bed or TV stand. Plugging the devices in already creates a gap of 5cm - 10cm. Attaching your device will make the gap between the wall and table/bed/stand even bigger. How do you plan on reducing that gap? I can think of the suggestion I made above, if plug can be extended by cable, you can easily move the device around to reduce the gap.

    Also if you are adding USB ports to charge mobile devices, and that's the only thing you have in mind, make sure it is future proof. Most of the new mobiles are now shipped with wireless charging pads and inbuilt wireless batteries. Are you sure your device will be in demand 2-3 years down the track?

    Add a switch to turn it on and off :).

    • BartholemewH on 06/12/2015 - 02:24
      +1

      I think you are missing the main point of the OP's invention. It is not a powerboard with USB ports, there are plenty of those on the market. It is a wall plate cover that adds USB. The adding of a cable would negate the main point of the device.

  • Hotpotcorn on 04/12/2015 - 16:27

    maybe u could go to sharktank

  • tikei on 04/12/2015 - 16:32
    +1

    Looks good, but not something most ozbargainers would spend on. Maybe try and advertise it elsewhere. It'll be very hard to reach $50k honestly.

  • stirlo on 04/12/2015 - 16:54
    +1

    I bought one, The price certainly isn't cheap but I can see how the Australian Certification and design would bring the cost up compared to the cheap shit on eBay.
    That said $50,000 is a very ambitious target and I honestly don't see you selling over 1200 of these on Kickstarter. Good luck mate.

  • supnigs super skids on 04/12/2015 - 16:58

    Nice holder idea but I'll just keep to my 4 port usb power board. My opinion is 2 ports isn't enough for me. Best of luck OP. It's too competitive and I've seen phone holder that also charge in China before over a year ago. Also it's missing a power off switch for the mains power - to me a biggie seeing you are fully covering the original mains switch.

  • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 17:06
    +3

    Thanks for all the feedback. Today i have been working with Engineers on a few suggestions people have been making.

    • 9V turbo charge, the cost is currently astronomical. As it is fairly new technology to add the chipset too allow this would cause the product price to double.

    • QI wireless charger - this adds approx $10 per unit and its slow and probably not worth the money.

    • On /Off switch - again this would cost major money to re-make molds and again go through Australian cerrtifications

    • Retractable cables - what happens when cable breaks as they all do? then the device becomes a brick.

    All these new technologies and features although they seem good are just not cost effective. Just a simple plughub charger will be more then enough for most people. Remember that most consumers are not OZB tech heads.

    I do agree that 50k is aiming pretty high for the Aus Market but i need to fill a container.

    • stirlo on 04/12/2015 - 17:12
      +1

      Good luck mate!!!

      Get them into Harvey Norman/JB HIFI or even Dicksmith (if they're still around) and you'll be rolling in it.

      • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 17:14
        +2

        Working on it………..Dick Smith is the new Brashes!

        IF you old enough you will know what Brashes is

        • zealmax on 07/12/2015 - 08:48

          Brashs

    • ozhunter on 04/12/2015 - 17:36

      I guess compared to similar products you can at Bunnings/Dicksmith the price isn't that bad. It is one of the better looking ones and it does keep things slightly tidier(though once 4 devices are plugged in, it would be similar to a power board).

      I wouldn't buy it but I guess the average mum/dad would if they wanted a quick way to add more usb ports to specific power points.

      • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 17:50

        Thats the spirit, now we on the same page :)

        • ozhunter on 05/12/2015 - 02:03

          But with that said, I doubt the average parent would go online and wait 2 months for it. I think if they see it on the shelves they'd be much more likely to purchase it. Though that's probably your plan in the future.

    • SlickMick on 05/12/2015 - 00:21

      The main point I've observed is that if you'd come to us earlier, you could have considered these ideas and some of them might have ended up in the product.

      If they end up in Bunnings for $30 I'll try one in store and and if I like, I'd get quite a few for rooms around the house + gifts (maybe next year hey!!??).
      (I leave USB cables all over the place so I, or visitors, can charge wherever we are.)

      If you seek funding for a new improved V2 I might me interested…. though I think the wireless charging is more suited to a corded device - I'll want to put it on my desk or bedside table, not down at the power-point height.
      I like the idea of retractable cables, but as you indicated, they need to be replaceable. (Dunno how you design that!??)

      Now that I think about it, it's only kitchen power-points that are at right height for this. (And bathroom, but not a suitable location.)
      For other rooms, would probably want the stand elevated… which would give you lots of room to incorporate more features. eg use both of double power-point for extra stability (and power if separately wired); nicely spaced power points going up wall (a nice neat power board fixed to wall), lots of USB ports at top, with stand to hold devices. Now maybe we're back to wanting a wireless charger option too :)
      If it's a whole piece of furniture like this, it would justify a significantly higher price. Might need to be timber of something though??

      Meanwhile, if you're going to make an offer to ozbargainers, I'll prob try out your V1 model :)

  • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 17:27
    +1

    http://www.target.com.au/p/2-way-surge-adaptor-white/5741554…

    What you think of these?

    • brgnhunter007 on 04/12/2015 - 20:11

      Looks similar to plughub and cheaper too..
      and it's machine washable hahaha..

      Anyway, joke aside I admire your entrepreneurship. It looks like the only difference btw your product and crest one is the removable slots.
      You also mentioned about patent. I assume it would be design patent? It would be great to take a page from Mr. Wonderful (from US Shark tank) and licence it instead.

      Just my 2 cents

      • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 20:46

        The first person to recognise the Patent. Yes i have a design patent that means no other adapter can be made with a cavity in the rear to cover an existing point. Im all about licensing, just waiting for the opportunity.

        Love Mr Wonderfull

        • adzzz on 05/12/2015 - 14:50

          Sorry to say, but design patents are generally useless in the face of a competing product. Your patent to protect the cavity as a "functional feature" of the product wont be protected if a competitor tries to create a similar product. They might just have to move the USB ports or redesign your holder at the top slightly and it will be a completely different product as per the patent protection. Just my personal 2c… Have you tried applying for a Utility Patent?

        • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 05/12/2015 - 14:53

          @adzzz: I have a design and Innovation Patent registered. I was told i am covered for any competitor producing a USB charge device that covers and existing wall plate.

        • brgnhunter007 on 07/12/2015 - 15:30

          All the best..

          @adzzz: If there ever a time where OP needs to protect his patent from competitors, then I think it is a good problem to have regardless of the outcome. That would mean that you have a market for your product that is worth protecting. Desirable outcome,IMHO.

  • t_c on 04/12/2015 - 19:02

    Its pretty cool product, I wonder if hotels and motels would be interested in buying it.

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 20:47

      I am looking into this also as most hotels dont have USB chargers in the room but do have older style power points. Its an easy cheap upgrade for them to give guests USB charge ability.

      • shmahoo on 05/12/2015 - 07:45
        +1

        And they'd be forced to buy new ones often as "guests" "accidentally" "keep" the unit when leaving their rooms

  • tehsnrub on 04/12/2015 - 20:28

    I think this is a good idea in principle and would certainly look at it on a shelf in Bunnings/Masters etc.

    I recently had the issue of having iPads/phones sitting on the kitchen bench or in those little 'plug socks' until I created a permanent solution where I recessed a large electrical box in the services duct outside from the kitchen. I put all of my chargers in there on a 4 way board and ran cables through the wall to a brushed outlet.

    This would have saved me a shit load of time and the crap I got from my wife for all the brick dust.

    $30 is the retail price point for most of these devices so I think it's pitched right.

    May I suggest you also sell nice braided cables to suit the lengths from the port to charging port of common devices? Or provide a solution to wrap the long cables normally provided.

  • Serapis on 04/12/2015 - 20:36
    +8

    I have funded 75+ projects (+indiegogo & pozible) and here is my feedback:

    1. I do not see why you're on Kickstarter? The page hasn't actually told me why and it just looks like you're trying to retail a finished product on a crowdfunding platform. At this point you're probably better off getting a bit more funding and attempting partnerships with big retail.

    2. The goal you seek is far too high for the product. That plus your market is solely Australian (Ships only to Australia). Australian projects receive far less funding as it is since the audience is nowhere as large. My expectation would be more around a $20,000 goal which is still high but far closer to reality than your current $50,000. A curious trend with Kickstarter is that you get less funding with higher your goal (does not apply to VERY unique projects). Some projects that fail at first instance with a higher goal return with a lower goal and actually get more money the 2nd time around, enough that it meets the initial goal. An Australian project I put money into called Brewover is a good example. You may want to try get in touch with those guys for pointers.

    3. It's fairly easy to see you're using words to make a simple product seem more complicated than it really is (not just you, this flaw goes for MANY Kickstarter type projects and startups.) The more BS used, the less likely I am to provide funding.

    4. Pretty obvious but OzBargain is not the type of community for pitching this type of product to. They will tear you to shreds but if you survive, you will get some pretty decent feedback.

    Good luck with your venture =)

    • Associatedrodgo @ plughub.com.au on 04/12/2015 - 20:49
      +2

      Thank you for the advise, it is much appreciated. I take everything on-board that people say and have learnt much since starting this post.

    • GameChanger on 04/12/2015 - 22:07

      Curious why do you fund so many projects?

      • Serapis on 05/12/2015 - 01:32

        Don't know, I have a certain vested interest in startups to do with technology and design. Interest started in 2011 and increased when I did a VC course at uni. I've also been a founding member of 1 tech startup in the past. My brother works in a tech one with an incubator group as well.

        To some degree I'm curious about the products produced but also to put in a small part to help another person / group realize their dreams.

        However doesn't mean I will dump money into each and every project, I assess and follow the ones I fund carefully and monitor the creator's responses often. Some admittedly do not meet expectations when they are delivered, others will exceed it, but of around 75 projects I've only funded 1 which turned out to be a scam back in 2013.

        • GameChanger on 05/12/2015 - 17:38

          What happens when its a scam? Do you get your money back?

        • Serapis on 05/12/2015 - 18:57

          @GameChanger: Exactly what happens when you get scammed, money is gone and you don't get it back.

          Luckily it was like $60 so not that big of a deal.

        • cwongtech on 08/12/2015 - 18:41
          +1

          @Serapis:

          Luckily it was like $60 so not that big of a deal.

          So like.. 4 packs of eneloops!?
          Outrageous!

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