Topic: Need some help with my desktop

[Bob Wessner]

Recently moved the computer, etc. to new digs. The desktop has all the grommets you could want or ask for to conceal the wiring and permanent cables below. However, I've always wrestled with "the bricks" and their associated lighter gauge wiring. I have a couple of still cameras, a video cam. a battery charger, etc and they all have a different brick, voltage and plug ends. It would be too easy if they were all the same, right?  They are not all plugged in at the same time. I keep them off the desktop when not needed and the extra cable is bundled with a twist-tie. A drawer full of these looks like spaghetti.

What I have been trying to find is some sort of little reel-like device to wind the cords into. I've been to a number of places, including Radio Shack, and done web searches but haven't found anything. They have them for phone extensions, but they already have the cord in the reel. I'm looking for something that's empty to wind the cords into, one for each device. Has anyone seen anything like this?

[jdigga]

On Ask This Old House they showed this little thing that looks like a donut split around the edges.  It's made of flexible material so you can flip the sides out (looks like a butterfly yoyo), wrap the cord around the core, then close it up again.

[Bob Wessner]

Thanks, I will check that out. If I'm picturing this correctly, it seems similar to what fly line leader comes on and the edges pinch just enough to keep it from unraveling. Might work if I can locate it.

[jdigga]

For the life of me I can't remember what it's called or who makes it.  But I googled images for "cord keeper" and "cord winder" and this is pretty close to what it is:

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-3-Cord-Winder-Keeper-Black-Disks_W0QQitemZ150011198034QQihZ005QQcategoryZ294QQcmdZViewItem

[Bob Wessner]

Pretty much what I envisioned. These seem larger for standard elec. cord, but I get the idea. Thanks again. I shall keep looking for something and keep this sort of gadget in mind.

[Bob Wessner]

For the life of me I can't remember what it's called or who makes it.  But I googled images for "cord keeper" and "cord winder" and this is pretty close to what it is:

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-3-Cord-Winder-Keeper-Black-Disks_W0QQitemZ150011198034QQihZ005QQcategoryZ294QQcmdZViewItem

jdigga,

After some sleuthing, finally found something similar in various sizes. It's called "Cable Turtle." Thanks.

[Klark Kent]

cable yo-yo looks cooler for computer peripheral stuff and i think it is cheaper than your turtle.
turtle looks good for a/c though
-KK

[Bob Wessner]

Thanks, the Turtle does come in different sizes, but at around $5 per cable for the Turtle, it seems silly. I'm looking at another solution. Too many toys I guess. 

[Jonesy]

I've taken to using these little velcro straps (come in a pack of 10 and assorted colors. ACO has them). They loop around the cord so they won't get lost and after you bundle up the cable you just wrap the strap around itself and the velcro holds it tight.

I know, not exactly what you had in mind, but it works good for me.

[jdigga]

jdigga,

After some sleuthing, finally found something similar in various sizes. It's called "Cable Turtle." Thanks.

Ah, I can now sleep tonight.    This Old House showcased it in their "What Is It?" segment.