I know how the MacBook chargers come with an extension that attaches to the metal thing so you change the country plug (sorry, probably not a very good description), and it makes the lead about 2 times as long. Is there something like this for the iPad charger?

Thanks

Is this what you are asking for?

Amazon.com: 30-pin Male to Female Dock Extender for iPod and iPhone - Black Extension Cable (4 feet): MP3 Players & Accessories

30-Pin Female to Male Charging & Data Extension Cable for iPhone / iPad / the New iPad - Free Shipping - DealExtreme

I have similar one from ebay but haven't tested if it works. DX stuff is cheap but so is the quality. Takes about 4 weeks to receive the products.

Originally Posted by bdude52

I know how the MacBook chargers come with an extension that attaches to the metal thing so you change the country plug (sorry, probably not a very good description), and it makes the lead about 2 times as long. Is there something like this for the iPad charger?

Thanks

I believe you are talking about this. I bought one and it works perfect with the iPad charger.
Amazon.com: AC Power Adapter US Extension Wall Cord for Apple Mac: Computers & Accessories

I have a similar one as the first one,works well.

One thing you should consider when using an extension with the iPad charging cable is that the extra resistance caused by the longer charging cord will cause charging times to increase.

Originally Posted by scifan57

One thing you should consider when using an extension with the iPad charging cable is that the extra resistance caused by the longer charging cord will cause charging times to increase.

Only by a tiny amount as the extra cable will add only a tiny amount of extra resistance.

If you use a USB extension cable, be sure it's large gauge wire and gold contacts for the best chance of charging quickly. Cheap cables can lengthen your charging time significantly.

Originally Posted by AQ_OC

Only by a tiny amount as the extra cable will add only a tiny amount of extra resistance.

The quality of the cable can make a difference as well.

I have bought several cheapo cables that did not work well---either for charging or data transfer. On the other hand, I have a couple of usb extender cables (usb connectors of opposite sexes on the two ends) that both work very well.

Originally Posted by scifan57

The quality of the cable can make a difference as well.

People talk about quality of cables but seem to have little understanding about cables. One can get quality cables that are very inexpensive. The best way to ensure getting one is to pay attention to the source of the cable, not the cost and certainly not whether it has gold plating or not. Stay away from eBay since the true source is always known (unless you are buying a name bland item). Monoprice is always a good place to buy cables. AmazonBasic is another. It is not hard to make a good cable that has quality connectors on either end with sound electrical connections along the length and with good insulation. Gold plating and other marketing talk are just ways to extract more money from folks. USB extension cables (as mentioned by another member in this thread) are another good way to go with apple since they use a proprietary connector on the device side. Since all cables are made from good conductors and are not very long (6 ft is not long), the added electrical resistance is a non issue (as long decent connectors and electrical connections are present within the cable).