I've mentioned this several times before, and I'm mentioning it again. I bet I have a hundred little power transformers for various devices. 5v, 9v, 12v 15v, positive and negative ground, and all with slightly different connectors. Really? Is that much variation necessary? I'm tempted bu buy one of those universal power supplies. You can set the voltage and select the correct connector, but they seem too iffy.

Maybe they could start by all using the same size connector. In a pinch, I've used a 12v in a 9v item - without problems. I now use a label maker to identify each power supply, and that makes it a lot easier to find the right one.

Of course, batteries for cameras and other electronics will never be interchangeable. I have a Canon SD800 and a Sony WX9. Their batteries are so similar that I had to write on them with a Sharpie. Being interchangeable would have made things so much simpler.

Companies always try to have proprietary accessories - until they realize they are shooting themselves in the foot. Sony tried to have its own hot shoe, so you would have to buy a Sony flash. I think they stopped doing that, but I still can't use generic mics on my Sony camcorders.

Remember when all cars used the same headlights? How nice! I remember the sealed beam headlights costing under $10. You know those LED headlights on Subarus that blind you day and night? I costs between $600 and $800 for a replacement. Naturally, you have to add tax and installation to that. My Fits use $10 bulbs - easy to install.