I work in IT and my manager has asked me to order cable trays to put under our meeting room tables for laptop chargers. I'm skeptical about this idea because the space under the tables is really tight, and I can't see how users will be able to access the cables easily. I suggested putting a box of chargers labeled 'MEETING ROOM CHARGER' in each room instead, but my manager insists on the trays. I'm looking for any better ideas or solutions that could work for providing laptop chargers in these meetings.
5 Answers
Whatever you decide, just ensure that whatever chargers you do buy are secured somehow. I've seen so many chargers go missing just because they were left out in the open. It’s a hassle trying to keep track of them.
You could cut a power brick into the table itself and let users connect their chargers there. If you need to provide chargers, opt for some USB-C cables or chargers instead of barrel connectors, since those are outdated and could easily be misplaced or stolen.
Meetings typically aren't long anyway. Just make sure the one giving the presentation has power. For everyone else, checking battery health on their laptops may help eliminate the need for chargers altogether.
True! Most of our meetings only last about two hours max, and we recently upgraded most laptops, so battery life shouldn't be an issue.
What about asking users to just bring their own laptop chargers? That's the easiest and most straightforward solution. If it's not feasible, consider adding outlets right in the middle of the tables instead of trying to mess with trays.
True! I can see how that would work better. Adding outlets would reduce clutter under the table for sure.
Yep, I tried suggesting that, but apparently it wasn't well-received.
Try putting USB-C docks in there. They can allow for charging and also for connecting to AV equipment. But really, if there’s no discussion about building better tables with built-in power outlets, finding a solid solution is going to be tough. Otherwise, you're just creating more problems with whatever quick fix you go for.
Exactly! I was thinking about getting a few multi USB-C outlets because they can handle multiple devices. Should work well in those rooms.