What's the big charger for?

[Sym0]

Double-insulation is very common in consumer electronics (and has been for 30+years AFAIK), and obviates the need for an earth connection.

But if you can touch metal, you can be shocked, that simple. Not likely, but not impossible. Put an earth in and then it becomes impossible.

 

[simonsi]

But if you can touch metal, you can be shocked, that simple. Not likely, but not impossible. Put an earth in and then it becomes impossible.

Double-insulation means you need both layers to be breached, that has been shown to be highly unlikely. However correct building earth to power sockets has been shown to be highly likely to be deficient so double-insulation is net safer than single insulation+ground.

Best is 110V mains of course as it is inherently less dangerous....

 

[fskywalker]

There are three major reasons I use it:

First, so I can increase the length of the cord.

Second, so I don’t block multiple outlets on a power strip when the “end” outlet is already taken.

Third, and most importantly, so I can put the power brick up against my socks to keep my toes warm.

Adding to the list, I use it since without it the machine is not grounded and I feel static on the palm rest when using it.