Solar Solutions

Stuck in the outback when you’re laptop runs flat? While the sun’s still up it’s no problem with the Powerfilm foldable solar battery charger.

U.S.-based Sundance Solar claims Powerfilm is the world’s lightest and most compact solar charger. Weighing in at 250 grams, the foldable charger fits in most backpacks and laptop bags and is powerful enough to charge most personal electronic accessories, including laptops, mobile phones, iPods, PDAs and GPS systems. It can also charge batteries including NiMh and Lithium ion cells, and 12 volt systems. Each charger provides 10 watts of power (at 15.6 volts) and they can be daisy-chained if more juice is required.

Originally designed for the U.S. military, the Powerfilm is UV resistant (you’d want it to be) and weatherproof.

Also from Sundance Solar is a handy camping gadget it claims to be the only (4.5 inch) pocket-sized solar lighter. A stainless steel parabolic mirror that focuses the sun’s radiant energy to a precise point that can reach 1000 degrees, the device is described as easy to use “Just point and light!”. Don’t forget to do so before sundown.

See http://store.sundancesolar.com