Cooler Master SNA 95 Review

The purpose is simple: offer a universal notebook adapter with widespread compatibility with nearly all notebook computers in use today. It's the sort of product that fits in nicely on store shelves at your local electronics store or computer repair shop. The Cooler Master SNA 95, which stands for Slim Notebook Adapter and totals 95W of nominal output power, includes everything needed inside one small kit. The RP-095-D19A-A1 model comes with eight different charger tips to ensure compatibility with the majority of popular laptop systems, and a 1A USB port to rapid-charge connected devices. Benchmark Reviews details the features and functionality behind the Cooler Master SNA 95 universal slim notebook adapter.

Occasionally Benchmark Reviews receives a product that just can't be 'benchmarked' and tested against others. The Cooler Master SNA 95 fits this description, and as a result we'll instead share our insights and experiences with this universal slim notebook adapter. The Cooler Master RP-095-D19A-A1 is meant as an all-in-one answer for notebook users needing to replace their existing power supply adapter, or just simply have another one on hand for convenience. Aside from consumer replacement, it also makes sense certain businesses to stock at least one universal adapter. In this article, Benchmark Reviews will explore the features and functionality, as well as suggest some reseller opportunities.

About Cooler Master

Cooler Master was founded with the mission of providing the industry's best thermal solutions. Since its establishment a decade ago, the company has remained faithful to this mission, emerging as a world leader in products and services for companies dealing with devices where heat issues must be resolved.

In pursuing this mission, Cooler Master is absolutely committed to delivering solutions that precisely meet customer requirements for features, performance, and quality. Moreover, we strive to be a reliable long-term partner for our customers that they can truly depend on. Cooler Master aims to be the first and foremost name that comes to mind for companies around the world seeking thermal solutions, and seeks to build such a reputation through outstanding technology, sophisticated design, and superior service.

Cooler Master's current business encompasses a comprehensive lineup of thermal solutions for a full range of applications. Our products range from heat sinks and fans to component housing, chassis, and ducting for computers, industrial machinery, telecommunications equipment, and many other devices.

Slim Notebook Adapter Features

SNA 95 is designed based on the simple notion of providing Total Power Solution not only for laptop users, but most of USB devices, such as mobile phone, smart phone, MP3 and MP4 players, iPod, PDA, and GPS. As the smallest 95W adapter in the world, SNA 95 is offering excellent mobility with its slim design and light weight.

SNA 95 is user-friendly, providing convenient storage and cable management with its unique H-shaped reel base and velvet carry bag. SNA 95 also features smart LED identification: white LED for power-on, white LED flicker for protection, and blue LED for USB-charge. The texture and design of SNA 95 is impeccably classic and elegant to be users' first choice.

RP-095-D19A-A1 Specifications

Closer Look: Cooler Master SNA 95

In all my years as a computer consultant and network administrator, I have only seen a few notebook power adapter fail. More often time the user destroys the AC power adapter through improper storage (cord crimping) or moisture (spills). Of course, my experience as a computer hardware reseller has also taught me that users also tend to lose their proprietary adapter on vacation, forget it at a Starbucks, or somehow misplace the component. Either way, the user is left with no choice but to replace the AC power adapter 'brick' with another.

Usually this doesn't take much effort, since manufacturers are well aware of consumer clumsiness, and offer plenty of after-market options. Cooler Master sees the opportunity to position their SNA 95 against direct-OEM replacements. The idea is made possible by offering a slim notebook adapter that costs less than most direct replacements and adds universal compatibility. This means that the RP-095-D19A-A1 could be the last replacement you need to buy (presuming you don't lose it).

The Cooler Master SNA 95 Universal Slim Notebook Adapter comes with eight different color-coded power tips (nine counting the native tip on the adapter). Each color corresponds to a specific plug diameter, allowing the RP-095-D19A-A1 kit to fit a wide range of notebook computer systems. Among the list of compatible manufacturers are: Acer, ASUS, Compaq, Dell, HP, IBM, Lenovo, Samsung, Sony, and Toshiba. Some tips fit multiple manufacturer laptops, so don't think that you're limited by these choices. Cooler Master offers a full listing by make and model here.

Measuring 5.7" long, by 2.9" wide, by 0.7" tall, the Cooler Master SNA 95 produces 95 watts (150W peak) of power; more than enough for any of the most popular notebook computers sold today. Along the side of the SNA 95 there is a 1.0 amp USB charging port. This is great for USB-based phones and media players, and also great for directly powering USB speaker systems for your laptop.

Cooler Master has included a cord-wrap clip on with their SNA 95 Universal Slim Notebook Adapter. While I have mixed opinions on this component, I am drawn to the vastly unused portion in the middle. With a little more design effort, all of the power tips could have been designed to fit into this area, instead of needing to be carried and maintained separately. Not only would this keep the RP-095-D19A-A1 kit true to its 'slim' name, but it would also make it complete.

SNA 95 Final Thoughts

Without question, the Cooler Master SNA 95 universal power adapter is going to offer an excellent alternative to direct-replacement OEM parts. Not only is it going to usually be more affordable, but it also offers high-power output for faster battery charging, universal power adapter tips, and a USB charging port. If you're looking for a replacement or secondary AC power adapter, confirm notebook compatibility here, and consider the SNA 95.

Resellers should see plenty of opportunity in the RP-095-D19A-A1 kit, since it has a wide and diverse range for product application, but also opens up sales to computer consultants and notebook repair centers. Additionally, library's, Internet cafe's, and other wireless hot spots could be upsold to carry an SNA 95 to help save the day for some unwitting customer.

One nice aspect of the SNA 95 is it's 95W rated power output, which can usually charge a notebook battery faster than the original adapter simply because it offers higher power (19Vdc @ 4.74A).

RP-095-D19A-A1 Conclusion

Benchmark Reviews begins each conclusion with a short summary for each of the areas we rate. The first is product presentation, which takes packaging into consideration to the extent that it provides adequate packing material and delivers important consumer information for an informed purchase. Since the national economy in the midst of an economic recession, manufacturers are using some creative ideas to help lure consumers to their product. The Cooler Master SNA 95 is a unique product in that it promises wide compatibility with notebook computer. While the windowed retail box allows the consumer to see what they get, a more robust compatibility chart should have been included beyond simply listing manufacturer names.

Product appearance if above average, since Cooler Master kept to a streamlined design that minimizes distractions in the appearance. A single blue LED indicates power draw, and a slim profile adds additional appeal.

The RP-095-D19A-A1 kit is built strong, especially since AC power adapters require solid construction to survive harsh impacts from hard floors and table tops. The cord wrap seemed a little brittle, as if it might break a corner if the SNA 95 was dropped on a ceramic tile floor, so perhaps a hard rubber version of this component will be used in the future.

Having a myriad of compatible notebooks fit to it, the SNA 95 offers incredible functionality. Just with Acer alone, the SNA fit over 500 different models, which seems huge... until you see over 1000 models listed for Compaq, HP, Sony, and Toshiba each. If I took the time to count the constantly-updated list, I'm sure to have over 6000 various models compatible with the RP-095-D19A-A1. This aside, I really think Cooler Master should go back and redesign the cord wrap to allow the power tips to be stored there.

As of late August 2009, the Cooler Master SNA 95 was available at several online retail locations. NewEgg lists the RP-095-D19A-A1 kit for $64.99, a price that only seems high until you discover the actual cost of replacing your OEM unit. Of course, Benchmark Reviews recommends our Price Comparison Tool to locate better deals. By price shopping, we found the SNA 95 on sale at Buy.com for $45.

In conclusion, the Cooler Master SNA 95 Universal Slim Notebook Adapter RP-095-D19A-A1 is an easy recommendation for resellers and replacement-seeking consumers alike. Computer repair centers should have at least one SNA 95 on hand for diagnosing and troubleshooting notebooks, just as well as they should have one for replacing faulty/damaged/missing power adapter units. The price is comparable to the more affordable name-brand AC power adapters, except that the SNA 95 can fit several thousands of notebook makes and models.

Pros:

+ Slim compact design
+ Thousands of compatible notebook models
+ 1.0 Amp USB charging port
+ 95 Watt power, 150W peak
+ Comparable cost to OEM replacement
+ 19Vdc @ 4.74A Fast-charges batteries
+ 2-Year warranty

Cons:

- Power tips held in separate component
- Cord wrap could house tips and reduce bulk
- Compatibility information only available online

Ratings:

• Presentation: 8.25
• Appearance: 8.50
• Construction: 8.75
• Functionality: 9.75
• Value: 7.25

Final Score: 8.50 out of 10.

Recommended: Benchmark Reviews Seal of Approval.

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