EvoFX
01-23-10, 02:51 PM
has anyone used solar chargers for touring or long bikes trips, to charge a phone or laptop. if so, what would you recommend in getting?
Touring - solar chargers
Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.AdamDZ
01-23-10, 03:11 PM
I've been looking at those myself, never used one. From what I've read Brunton Solaris are the best ones right now. They're not cheap but they're light (fold nicely) and provide a lot of power and can be linked. But I wonder what others have to say that actually used solar chargers in real life. I've been looking at the Solaris 26 model that goes for $300 on Amazon. The small Solio chargers are cheap but weak, they take many hours to charge a phone. The Brunton panels can actually run a laptop while charging it apparently. You could probably attach it to the pannier to charge gadgets while riding.
Adam
Adam
twodeadpoets
01-23-10, 04:10 PM
Check this out: http://www.bikeforums.net/search.php?searchid=129508
EDIT: Sorry, search only works from my account. Try searching "Solar Chargers" in the search function; tonnes of hits
EDIT: Sorry, search only works from my account. Try searching "Solar Chargers" in the search function; tonnes of hits
EvoFX
01-23-10, 04:16 PM
no matches?
82times
01-23-10, 04:38 PM
+1 that the Solio chargers are weak and slow. That was my experience on tour Summer 2008. Not really worth carrying. Construction was not very durable either. by mid-way through the tour, the three sections were loose from one another.
My impression is that unless you spend a lot of money, solar chargers aren't ready for prime time for bicycle touring applications. I'm looking forward to the options getting better and cheaper, though, no doubt.
My impression is that unless you spend a lot of money, solar chargers aren't ready for prime time for bicycle touring applications. I'm looking forward to the options getting better and cheaper, though, no doubt.
twodeadpoets
01-23-10, 04:47 PM
Sorry I was trying to provide a link to search results in BikeForums, however, evidently I cannot share a link to my search results from my profile. What I was trying to suggest is that there are tonnes of search results in this forum and therefore information from people who have used solar chargers. Just do a search for "solar chargers" in the search.
Cheers!
Cheers!
gregw
01-24-10, 06:23 AM
The problems with any solar system is that the little power they do produce, comes in fluctuating power levels. Bright sun generates more that partly cloudy. So you can't use the power directly or it will damage the device your using. So you need a controler / charger and a battery to store the energy. You then charge from that battery. Those items together are very expensive and don't even work all that great, it's the same reason solar will never be a viable energy source for general use.
Anyway a better solution is to charge up at campgrounds, restaurants, motels, etc. I've never been turned down when I ask if I can plug in a charger.
Anyway a better solution is to charge up at campgrounds, restaurants, motels, etc. I've never been turned down when I ask if I can plug in a charger.
LeeG
01-24-10, 09:59 AM
has anyone used solar chargers for touring or long bikes trips, to charge a phone or laptop. if so, what would you recommend in getting?
think in terms of watts, your phone only needs a fraction of a watt, the lap top at least 30 watts. To charge a laptop will require all day from a large array aligned towards the sun. So you either don't move all day and align the large array towards the sun or you wrap your bike with an array and partially charge it while riding.
Compared to simply plugging it in somewhere for an hour while you use it and it recharges while drawing about 75watts. This is one of those "there's no free lunch" issues where getting the lowest power consumption device possible to do the job is more efficient and less costly than trying to match solar power to a device designed for a 120v wall outlet.
Solar power makes sense when you won't be near 120v with your 120v device for a long time.
think in terms of watts, your phone only needs a fraction of a watt, the lap top at least 30 watts. To charge a laptop will require all day from a large array aligned towards the sun. So you either don't move all day and align the large array towards the sun or you wrap your bike with an array and partially charge it while riding.
Compared to simply plugging it in somewhere for an hour while you use it and it recharges while drawing about 75watts. This is one of those "there's no free lunch" issues where getting the lowest power consumption device possible to do the job is more efficient and less costly than trying to match solar power to a device designed for a 120v wall outlet.
Solar power makes sense when you won't be near 120v with your 120v device for a long time.
philso
01-24-10, 10:31 AM
...I've never been turned down when I ask if I can plug in a charger.
i have, several times.
i have, several times.
Wogster
01-24-10, 10:55 AM
think in terms of watts, your phone only needs a fraction of a watt, the lap top at least 30 watts. To charge a laptop will require all day from a large array aligned towards the sun. So you either don't move all day and align the large array towards the sun or you wrap your bike with an array and partially charge it while riding.
Compared to simply plugging it in somewhere for an hour while you use it and it recharges while drawing about 75watts. This is one of those "there's no free lunch" issues where getting the lowest power consumption device possible to do the job is more efficient and less costly than trying to match solar power to a device designed for a 120v wall outlet.
Solar power makes sense when you won't be near 120v with your 120v device for a long time.
Not ALL devices that seem to be 120V are 120V, for example the laptop, if you check the power supply it's often 110-250VAC in and somewhat less out, for example the laptop here is 19,5VDC, a solar cell that can put out 24VDC would be sufficient, although it would need to be reduced to 19.5V for the laptop.
Of course if you really need to recharge such devices on a regular basis, on a tour, then plan to be near an outlet on occasion. For example, maybe once a week you stay in a motel, do your laundry, unpack and repack all your gear, get all your batteries recharged, etc.
Compared to simply plugging it in somewhere for an hour while you use it and it recharges while drawing about 75watts. This is one of those "there's no free lunch" issues where getting the lowest power consumption device possible to do the job is more efficient and less costly than trying to match solar power to a device designed for a 120v wall outlet.
Solar power makes sense when you won't be near 120v with your 120v device for a long time.
Not ALL devices that seem to be 120V are 120V, for example the laptop, if you check the power supply it's often 110-250VAC in and somewhat less out, for example the laptop here is 19,5VDC, a solar cell that can put out 24VDC would be sufficient, although it would need to be reduced to 19.5V for the laptop.
Of course if you really need to recharge such devices on a regular basis, on a tour, then plan to be near an outlet on occasion. For example, maybe once a week you stay in a motel, do your laundry, unpack and repack all your gear, get all your batteries recharged, etc.
kayakdiver
01-24-10, 11:16 AM
After trying multiple methods I think i'm going to go this route next. I figure if it sucks.... Costco has a great return policy. Would do everything I need it to do. Don't bring a laptop while touring. Can charge ipod touch and Gps and phone. That pretty much covers everything for me. Figure it should keep me charged until it's possible to do again. It's only around 5 oz. and I like that.
If anyone has experience with it please let me know.. I'm excited about the possibilities of this. Linky http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11477932&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|84|56566&N=4017477&Mo=11&No=2&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=56566&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&topnav=
If anyone has experience with it please let me know.. I'm excited about the possibilities of this. Linky http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11477932&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|84|56566&N=4017477&Mo=11&No=2&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=56566&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&topnav=
LeeG
01-24-10, 11:55 AM
Not ALL devices that seem to be 120V are 120V, for example the laptop, if you check the power supply it's often 110-250VAC in and somewhat less out, for example the laptop here is 19,5VDC, a solar cell that can put out 24VDC would be sufficient, although it would need to be reduced to 19.5V for the laptop.
Of course if you really need to recharge such devices on a regular basis, on a tour, then plan to be near an outlet on occasion. For example, maybe once a week you stay in a motel, do your laundry, unpack and repack all your gear, get all your batteries recharged, etc.
I have a typical Toshiba laptop with13" screen and it says 15v at 5amps. While it runs off of 15v it was designed with 120v wall power in mind. Not low power solar panels. Look at how big of a solar panel you'd need for 5amps with the understanding that is full sunlight and the panel is facing the sun and not 30degrees. While you could charge with one amp it'll only be charging the battery and take a LONG time doing it. Most 12v folding panels open up to 2'x3' and that's 1.5amps. That will take forever to charge a laptop. Better off finding a device that doesn't use much power.
Of course if you really need to recharge such devices on a regular basis, on a tour, then plan to be near an outlet on occasion. For example, maybe once a week you stay in a motel, do your laundry, unpack and repack all your gear, get all your batteries recharged, etc.
I have a typical Toshiba laptop with13" screen and it says 15v at 5amps. While it runs off of 15v it was designed with 120v wall power in mind. Not low power solar panels. Look at how big of a solar panel you'd need for 5amps with the understanding that is full sunlight and the panel is facing the sun and not 30degrees. While you could charge with one amp it'll only be charging the battery and take a LONG time doing it. Most 12v folding panels open up to 2'x3' and that's 1.5amps. That will take forever to charge a laptop. Better off finding a device that doesn't use much power.
cyclist2000
01-24-10, 11:21 PM
After trying multiple methods I think i'm going to go this route next. I figure if it sucks.... Costco has a great return policy. Would do everything I need it to do. Don't bring a laptop while touring. Can charge ipod touch and Gps and phone. That pretty much covers everything for me. Figure it should keep me charged until it's possible to do again. It's only around 5 oz. and I like that.
If anyone has experience with it please let me know.. I'm excited about the possibilities of this. Linky http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11477932&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|84|56566&N=4017477&Mo=11&No=2&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=56566&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&topnav=
I'm not sure how much benefit this will be since it is a rechargeable battery. Once it is expended you will need to recharge it. 25 hours of talk time is about 3-4 charges of my phone. I think a turbo charge or iGo with lithium ion batteries would give you power without an outlet. I bring these when touring as a backup to my wall charger. Also I always turn off the phone when I am riding unless I get separated from my touring friends.
If anyone has experience with it please let me know.. I'm excited about the possibilities of this. Linky http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11477932&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|84|56566&N=4017477&Mo=11&No=2&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=56566&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&topnav=
I'm not sure how much benefit this will be since it is a rechargeable battery. Once it is expended you will need to recharge it. 25 hours of talk time is about 3-4 charges of my phone. I think a turbo charge or iGo with lithium ion batteries would give you power without an outlet. I bring these when touring as a backup to my wall charger. Also I always turn off the phone when I am riding unless I get separated from my touring friends.
Abneycat
01-25-10, 12:33 AM
I have a Brunton Solaris USB and a Solo 3.4, both work very well. The Solio is not worth your money for outdoor adventures, it has zero weather resistance, and has a poor power to weight ratio. I had one that died from 2 minutes of rain exposure.
The Brunton Solaris will withstand some rain exposure quite easily, though you should not leave the solo exposed, it will not withstand rain. I have put the solo in a bag with the cable looped so rain does not run down it, and left the solaris out, without trouble. I see now that Brunton is making a product called the Battpack, which seems to be the 3.4 plus a built in battery charger, which would be nice.
If you want a completely waterproof panel though, get one of the rollable ones for kayakers. My solaris has been fine with rain coming down on it, but i'd imagine it might be toast if left submerged in a puddle of water.
The solo 3.4 has enough power to charge small devices multiple times, unlike a lot of these other little toy solar panels with power reserves in them, which will perhaps do a phone once or twice. I think it does my phone about 4 times on a charge, it'll also charge a Nite Rider Minewt mini USB. Big plus for touring.
I have a few things to input:
The Brunton gear can be had for much less than MSRP if you hunt around a bit.
The exterior decoration on the 3.4 can be broken off, saving weight, making the unit less ugly, and it's still in a plastic shell and perfectly protected. Why is that junk there in the first place? It's not really doing anything from what I can tell.
The only thing I don't like about the Brunton solaris itself is that there are heavy, noticeable brunton logos on the panels themselves. I would have preferred something a little bit less tacky and conspicuous, but I guess brunton has an eye for functional design, not aesthetics. A lot of their stuff is ugly.
There are other brand options out there that seem to do fine. PowerFilm being one of them that i've seen around, and they're not horribly logo heavy like the Brunton models are.
As for charging a laptop, I couldn't help you. You'd need a pretty big investment to feed most laptops with proper power and not be left with a novelty system. I'd almost recommend that if you can't live without internet on tour and you're committed to this, buy an extremely low power consumption unit like an Asus EEEpc with an SSD in it, or get a smart phone or something.
Oh, and iPhones / iPod touch won't charge off a lot of these little devices. They have strict charging designs. I know that the solo 3.4 will not charge either of these things, for instance.
The Brunton Solaris will withstand some rain exposure quite easily, though you should not leave the solo exposed, it will not withstand rain. I have put the solo in a bag with the cable looped so rain does not run down it, and left the solaris out, without trouble. I see now that Brunton is making a product called the Battpack, which seems to be the 3.4 plus a built in battery charger, which would be nice.
If you want a completely waterproof panel though, get one of the rollable ones for kayakers. My solaris has been fine with rain coming down on it, but i'd imagine it might be toast if left submerged in a puddle of water.
The solo 3.4 has enough power to charge small devices multiple times, unlike a lot of these other little toy solar panels with power reserves in them, which will perhaps do a phone once or twice. I think it does my phone about 4 times on a charge, it'll also charge a Nite Rider Minewt mini USB. Big plus for touring.
I have a few things to input:
The Brunton gear can be had for much less than MSRP if you hunt around a bit.
The exterior decoration on the 3.4 can be broken off, saving weight, making the unit less ugly, and it's still in a plastic shell and perfectly protected. Why is that junk there in the first place? It's not really doing anything from what I can tell.
The only thing I don't like about the Brunton solaris itself is that there are heavy, noticeable brunton logos on the panels themselves. I would have preferred something a little bit less tacky and conspicuous, but I guess brunton has an eye for functional design, not aesthetics. A lot of their stuff is ugly.
There are other brand options out there that seem to do fine. PowerFilm being one of them that i've seen around, and they're not horribly logo heavy like the Brunton models are.
As for charging a laptop, I couldn't help you. You'd need a pretty big investment to feed most laptops with proper power and not be left with a novelty system. I'd almost recommend that if you can't live without internet on tour and you're committed to this, buy an extremely low power consumption unit like an Asus EEEpc with an SSD in it, or get a smart phone or something.
Oh, and iPhones / iPod touch won't charge off a lot of these little devices. They have strict charging designs. I know that the solo 3.4 will not charge either of these things, for instance.
Juha
01-25-10, 03:05 AM
Sorry I was trying to provide a link to search results in BikeForums, however, evidently I cannot share a link to my search results from my profile. What I was trying to suggest is that there are tonnes of search results in this forum and therefore information from people who have used solar chargers. Just do a search for "solar chargers" in the search.
Cheers!Here's one fairly recent that also happens to mention the Brunton.
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?608092-Charing-a-laptop-cell-phone&highlight=Solar+chargers
I have an oldish Silva panel that can be used to charge NiMH batteries as well as phone. That pretty much covers my needs. I've tried to make sure my on tour electronic gizmos work with AA/AAA, with the exception of phone and a laptop (the laptop I rarely carry). I have not used the panel a lot, as it only replaces one charger (phone) and is far more delicate when packing. So if I have mains power available during the route, I'll use that. From what little experience I have, the panel is useless when moving, but semi-useful in camp. Semi in the sense that to actually charge properly, one would have to stay in camp one full sunny day every now and then, and keep the panel oriented towards sun.
I also do sea kayak touring, and there it could be possible to keep the panel pointed to sun better than when riding. But I haven't actually tried it, I'm not sure this particular panel can take the occasional splashes of water that are inevitable there.
--J
Cheers!Here's one fairly recent that also happens to mention the Brunton.
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?608092-Charing-a-laptop-cell-phone&highlight=Solar+chargers
I have an oldish Silva panel that can be used to charge NiMH batteries as well as phone. That pretty much covers my needs. I've tried to make sure my on tour electronic gizmos work with AA/AAA, with the exception of phone and a laptop (the laptop I rarely carry). I have not used the panel a lot, as it only replaces one charger (phone) and is far more delicate when packing. So if I have mains power available during the route, I'll use that. From what little experience I have, the panel is useless when moving, but semi-useful in camp. Semi in the sense that to actually charge properly, one would have to stay in camp one full sunny day every now and then, and keep the panel oriented towards sun.
I also do sea kayak touring, and there it could be possible to keep the panel pointed to sun better than when riding. But I haven't actually tried it, I'm not sure this particular panel can take the occasional splashes of water that are inevitable there.
--J
kayakdiver
01-25-10, 07:13 AM
I'm not sure how much benefit this will be since it is a rechargeable battery. Once it is expended you will need to recharge it. 25 hours of talk time is about 3-4 charges of my phone. I think a turbo charge or iGo with lithium ion batteries would give you power without an outlet. I bring these when touring as a backup to my wall charger. Also I always turn off the phone when I am riding unless I get separated from my touring friends.
I can't charge my ipod touch with it. It will charge my phone and would charge my old ipod shuffle. Flat out doesn't work with touch and I have tried. I was hoping this would and it's some serious ah compared to two AA.
Like I mentioned.. don't have one but it does interest me.
..
I can't charge my ipod touch with it. It will charge my phone and would charge my old ipod shuffle. Flat out doesn't work with touch and I have tried. I was hoping this would and it's some serious ah compared to two AA.
Like I mentioned.. don't have one but it does interest me.
..
brawny
01-25-10, 11:21 AM
Has anyone considered using a dynamo and charging unit as an alternative to solar? No need to worry about sunshine - you just need to ride. :-)
I found these links on Peter White's website:
EWerk charger: http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/ewerk.asp
Schmidt Dynamo Hub: http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/schmidt.asp
I don't have experience with these products, but I'm giving them consideration as I spec my new LHT.
Something to consider, anyway!
Peace!
Brawny
I found these links on Peter White's website:
EWerk charger: http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/ewerk.asp
Schmidt Dynamo Hub: http://www.peterwhitecycles.com/schmidt.asp
I don't have experience with these products, but I'm giving them consideration as I spec my new LHT.
Something to consider, anyway!
Peace!
Brawny
cyclist2000
01-25-10, 01:35 PM
I can't charge my ipod touch with it. It will charge my phone and would charge my old ipod shuffle. Flat out doesn't work with touch and I have tried. I was hoping this would and it's some serious ah compared to two AA.
Like I mentioned.. don't have one but it does interest me.
..
I use them to charge my Ipod touch but it is a 1st generation touch, I didn't know that there were different charging requirements for the third gen.
Like I mentioned.. don't have one but it does interest me.
..
I use them to charge my Ipod touch but it is a 1st generation touch, I didn't know that there were different charging requirements for the third gen.
Juha
01-25-10, 02:39 PM
Has anyone considered using a dynamo and charging unit as an alternative to solar?In addition to commercial products, if you search the Forums for member n4zou, you'll find his neat DIY design for exactly this.
Here it is: http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?452921-USB-charger-powered-by-dynamo-hub
--J
Here it is: http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?452921-USB-charger-powered-by-dynamo-hub
--J
kayakdiver
01-25-10, 03:03 PM
I use them to charge my Ipod touch but it is a 1st generation touch, I didn't know that there were different charging requirements for the third gen.
I wish it wasn't true... I have had zero luck and 3rd gen ipod touch. Will charge my garmin but.... I'm trying to find a solution for everything.
I wish it wasn't true... I have had zero luck and 3rd gen ipod touch. Will charge my garmin but.... I'm trying to find a solution for everything.
AdamDZ
01-25-10, 07:30 PM
Anything that has car style cigarette lighter adapter should charge any iPod or iPhone assuming you have appropriate chargers. I've charged my iPod and iPhone off of a generic car backup/jumper battery that has a cigarette adapter output.
Adam
Adam
cyclist2000
01-25-10, 08:15 PM
Anything that has car style cigarette lighter adapter should charge any iPod or iPhone assuming you have appropriate chargers. I've charged my iPod and iPhone off of a generic car backup/jumper battery that has a cigarette adapter output.
Adam
this is completely wrong, I was just reading that the 2nd gen ipod touch does not charge with the firewire pin in the connector as previous models had. If you get an new ipod it will not charge in any of the docking stations or older accessories. the newer gen ipod touch needs to be charged with a usb connector
Adam
this is completely wrong, I was just reading that the 2nd gen ipod touch does not charge with the firewire pin in the connector as previous models had. If you get an new ipod it will not charge in any of the docking stations or older accessories. the newer gen ipod touch needs to be charged with a usb connector
cyclist2000
01-25-10, 08:17 PM
I wish it wasn't true... I have had zero luck and 3rd gen ipod touch. Will charge my garmin but.... I'm trying to find a solution for everything.
I just checked and the duracell "my pocket charger" that I purchased at Costco does work to charge my kids new ipod touch.
I just checked and the duracell "my pocket charger" that I purchased at Costco does work to charge my kids new ipod touch.
kayakdiver
01-25-10, 08:37 PM
I just checked and the duracell "my pocket charger" that I purchased at Costco does work to charge my kids new ipod touch.
Thanks for the info
kyakdiver
Thanks for the info
kyakdiver
badger_biker
01-26-10, 12:23 PM
Does anyone have any knowledge of this product from Amzer? Not much bigger than an iphone. It probably isn't that efficient from a solar standpoint but I like the option of charging the storage battery with AC when you have access to get me through a few days where I may not have access.
http://www.fommy.com/view-full-page.asp?skuno=83981
http://www.fommy.com/view-full-page.asp?skuno=83981
AdamDZ
01-26-10, 12:59 PM
this is completely wrong, I was just reading that the 2nd gen ipod touch does not charge with the firewire pin in the connector as previous models had. If you get an new ipod it will not charge in any of the docking stations or older accessories. The newer gen ipod touch needs to be charged with a usb connector
Whatever you were reading, stop and don't read that again. What the heck does THAT have to do with anything??? FW hasn't been used for charging iPods for few generations, only USB. And I'm not talking about older accessories. Let me repeat again:
"Anything that has car style cigarette lighter adapter should charge any iPod or iPhone assuming you have appropriate chargers"
Belkin, among others, makes makes such "appropriate charger"/ car power adapter for iPod Touch 2nd gen.:
http://catalog.belkin.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Product_Id=489423
If you get one of those for your 2nd gen iPod you can use it with anything that has a cigarette lighter socket: portable power source or solar charger.
Or a universal USB car adapter:
http://www.griffintechnology.com/products/powerduouniversal
Does anyone have any knowledge of this product from Amzer? Not much bigger than an iphone. It probably isn't that efficient from a solar standpoint but I like the option of charging the storage battery with AC when you have access to get me through a few days where I may not have access.
This part at the bottom made me go "hmmm..."
"Follow instructions for usage. Do not overheat or overexpose the Amzer Solar Charger to direct or indirect sunlight and AC/ USB charge. "
I bet like many other chargers this size the 2.5h charging time refers to how long it charges a phone when its battery is full, but like Solio, it takes 10+ hours to charge the internal battery which makes it impractical. IMHO, those devices are gimmicks. If you're not gonna be using the solar panel part then get a straightforward rechargeable battery power source like this:
http://www.brunton.com/product.php?id=603
Adam
Whatever you were reading, stop and don't read that again. What the heck does THAT have to do with anything??? FW hasn't been used for charging iPods for few generations, only USB. And I'm not talking about older accessories. Let me repeat again:
"Anything that has car style cigarette lighter adapter should charge any iPod or iPhone assuming you have appropriate chargers"
Belkin, among others, makes makes such "appropriate charger"/ car power adapter for iPod Touch 2nd gen.:
http://catalog.belkin.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Product_Id=489423
If you get one of those for your 2nd gen iPod you can use it with anything that has a cigarette lighter socket: portable power source or solar charger.
Or a universal USB car adapter:
http://www.griffintechnology.com/products/powerduouniversal
Does anyone have any knowledge of this product from Amzer? Not much bigger than an iphone. It probably isn't that efficient from a solar standpoint but I like the option of charging the storage battery with AC when you have access to get me through a few days where I may not have access.
This part at the bottom made me go "hmmm..."
"Follow instructions for usage. Do not overheat or overexpose the Amzer Solar Charger to direct or indirect sunlight and AC/ USB charge. "
I bet like many other chargers this size the 2.5h charging time refers to how long it charges a phone when its battery is full, but like Solio, it takes 10+ hours to charge the internal battery which makes it impractical. IMHO, those devices are gimmicks. If you're not gonna be using the solar panel part then get a straightforward rechargeable battery power source like this:
http://www.brunton.com/product.php?id=603
Adam
cyclist2000
01-26-10, 02:57 PM
AdamDZ your statement are full of baloney. not everything that charges with a car adapter will charge a second generation or later ipod touch. monster car charger and radio transmitter will not charge a 2nd or later. If you have a second gen ipod touch and used such a device it would be obvious. But really what difference does a charger matter in this situation. I am sure that the OP will carry a car in his pannier to charge is Ipod!!!.
AdamDZ
01-26-10, 04:32 PM
AdamDZ your statement are full of baloney. not everything that charges with a car adapter will charge a second generation or later ipod touch. monster car charger and radio transmitter will not charge a 2nd or later. If you have a second gen ipod touch and used such a device it would be obvious. But really what difference does a charger matter in this situation. I am sure that the OP will carry a car in his pannier to charge is Ipod!!!.
Are you even reading my posts or you just jump straight to conclusions?!? I'M TALKING ABOUT IPOD and IPHONE SPECIFIC CAR CHARGERS THAT ARE WIDELY AVAILABLE ON THE MARKET! NOT ANYTHING, NOT ANY CHARGER! They charge 1st and 2nd gen iPod Touch, other iPods and all iPhones via USB from a standard cigarette lighter socket. They can be plugged in to any power source that has a standard cigarette lighter socket.
The iPod, iPod Touch and iPhone use the same chargers and cables and all work via USB. I own 4 iPods and and iPhone including 2nd gen iPod Touch and they all use the same power accessories! I have Griffin and Belkin car adapters and they charge my iPhone and my iPod and my wife's 2nd gen iPod Touch and her old Nano, no problems, either in the car or from a portable Schummacher power source. My buddies at work own all kinds of iPhones and iPods and we freely share chargers and cables. Any iPod or iPhone will charge either from the small cube AC adapter or the older larger one. There is no difference between any iPod Touch or iPhone in terms of power accessories.
Just go to Apple's website and look at iPod power accessories: none of them specifies any difference between 1st or 2nd gen iPods, geez....
http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_ipod/ipod_accessories/power?
So.... all iPod/iPhone USB/power cables can be used with the above car adapters/chargers, no problems or the car charger plugs directly to the iPod/iPhone. And they will charge just fine from a solar panel as long as it has USB or cigarette lighter output.
I'm sorry, I just can't make this any clearer for you. If you still don't get it I'll give up :( Do some research before accusing someone of making baloney and nonsensical statements.
I am sure that the OP will carry a car in his pannier to charge is Ipod!!!.
WTF? Are you aware that solar panels come with car lighter adapters so one can use any compatible chargers??? A.K.A. "12 V vehicle power outlet cable". Go to Brunton's site and download a manual for any of their Solaris panels, they have car lighter sockets. Therefore, no need to carry a car in your pannier. That last sentence was just beyond stupid and clearly shows that you have no idea what I'm talking about.
Hmm.... so you actually missed the whole point, interesting....
Adam
Are you even reading my posts or you just jump straight to conclusions?!? I'M TALKING ABOUT IPOD and IPHONE SPECIFIC CAR CHARGERS THAT ARE WIDELY AVAILABLE ON THE MARKET! NOT ANYTHING, NOT ANY CHARGER! They charge 1st and 2nd gen iPod Touch, other iPods and all iPhones via USB from a standard cigarette lighter socket. They can be plugged in to any power source that has a standard cigarette lighter socket.
The iPod, iPod Touch and iPhone use the same chargers and cables and all work via USB. I own 4 iPods and and iPhone including 2nd gen iPod Touch and they all use the same power accessories! I have Griffin and Belkin car adapters and they charge my iPhone and my iPod and my wife's 2nd gen iPod Touch and her old Nano, no problems, either in the car or from a portable Schummacher power source. My buddies at work own all kinds of iPhones and iPods and we freely share chargers and cables. Any iPod or iPhone will charge either from the small cube AC adapter or the older larger one. There is no difference between any iPod Touch or iPhone in terms of power accessories.
Just go to Apple's website and look at iPod power accessories: none of them specifies any difference between 1st or 2nd gen iPods, geez....
http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/shop_ipod/ipod_accessories/power?
So.... all iPod/iPhone USB/power cables can be used with the above car adapters/chargers, no problems or the car charger plugs directly to the iPod/iPhone. And they will charge just fine from a solar panel as long as it has USB or cigarette lighter output.
I'm sorry, I just can't make this any clearer for you. If you still don't get it I'll give up :( Do some research before accusing someone of making baloney and nonsensical statements.
I am sure that the OP will carry a car in his pannier to charge is Ipod!!!.
WTF? Are you aware that solar panels come with car lighter adapters so one can use any compatible chargers??? A.K.A. "12 V vehicle power outlet cable". Go to Brunton's site and download a manual for any of their Solaris panels, they have car lighter sockets. Therefore, no need to carry a car in your pannier. That last sentence was just beyond stupid and clearly shows that you have no idea what I'm talking about.
Hmm.... so you actually missed the whole point, interesting....
Adam
sesmith
01-26-10, 08:55 PM
has anyone used solar chargers for touring or long bikes trips, to charge a phone or laptop. if so, what would you recommend in getting?
I have an Icetech:
http://www.icetechusa.com/catalogue-solar-167464-spec.html
Works fine for recharging a cell phone or mp3 player. It has a built in 2500 mAh battery so it's like carrying a spare battery that can be recharged via solar or 120v. If I try run my palm centro with my gps software plotting (and communicating via bluetooth with my Freedom 2000 keychain gps), and the icetech plugged into it, it will increase the battery time from 3 hours to more like 6 or 8 but the icetech will still discharge faster than the sun charges it. So it's a handy thing to have on a trip, but don't expect it to keep everything up during constant use, and it'll never charge up a laptop.
I have an Icetech:
http://www.icetechusa.com/catalogue-solar-167464-spec.html
Works fine for recharging a cell phone or mp3 player. It has a built in 2500 mAh battery so it's like carrying a spare battery that can be recharged via solar or 120v. If I try run my palm centro with my gps software plotting (and communicating via bluetooth with my Freedom 2000 keychain gps), and the icetech plugged into it, it will increase the battery time from 3 hours to more like 6 or 8 but the icetech will still discharge faster than the sun charges it. So it's a handy thing to have on a trip, but don't expect it to keep everything up during constant use, and it'll never charge up a laptop.
Dellphinus
01-27-10, 04:50 AM
Couple tidbits/thoughts-
Search the net for "minty" (I think)- there's a do it yourself power thing that fits into an Altoid Mints can. Look in the gadgets forum here too.
There are several gadgets out there made to work off a hub or bottle generator, again, search in the gadgets forum here
There are cheap inline adapters that will allow iphones or ipods to charge off ANY USB power source- they give the apple device the "signature" it looks for from an apple compatible charger.
Search the net for "minty" (I think)- there's a do it yourself power thing that fits into an Altoid Mints can. Look in the gadgets forum here too.
There are several gadgets out there made to work off a hub or bottle generator, again, search in the gadgets forum here
There are cheap inline adapters that will allow iphones or ipods to charge off ANY USB power source- they give the apple device the "signature" it looks for from an apple compatible charger.
Abneycat
01-29-10, 01:46 PM
Re: My earlier post about the Brunton Solaris USB, Brunton Solo 3.4 and the iPod Touch / iPhone 2nd gen onwards:
Brunton replied to an inquiry I made about the topic. There is a small accessory available called the Scosche passport that allows these newer models to be used with older accessories. It will also allow them to be charged with devices such as the solo 3.4.
Brunton's new power supply devices that are coming out this year are all compatible with the new iPod / iPhone charging requirements right out of the box.
Brunton replied to an inquiry I made about the topic. There is a small accessory available called the Scosche passport that allows these newer models to be used with older accessories. It will also allow them to be charged with devices such as the solo 3.4.
Brunton's new power supply devices that are coming out this year are all compatible with the new iPod / iPhone charging requirements right out of the box.
AndrewP
01-29-10, 02:24 PM
Charge your phone before you start the tour. Keep the phone turned off. Only switch on the phone when you have to make a call. Recharge when the tour is finished.
vegenaise
01-29-10, 02:45 PM
used a solio 3 folder thing on my last tour to charge my ipod and phone. worked fine for me. will be using it again in the future.
lite_ice
01-29-10, 04:00 PM
I like a AA/AAA battery charger and a slew of sanyo eneloops and a Altoid MintyBoost. You can always charge the batteries once a week. Check it out, won't power a laptop though.
kayakdiver
02-03-10, 09:58 AM
Does anyone have any knowledge of this product from Amzer? Not much bigger than an iphone. It probably isn't that efficient from a solar standpoint but I like the option of charging the storage battery with AC when you have access to get me through a few days where I may not have access.
http://www.fommy.com/view-full-page.asp?skuno=83981
I just ordered one... I'll be taking it on my Southern Tier tour later this month. Should have some real life feedback to share about it.
http://www.fommy.com/view-full-page.asp?skuno=83981
I just ordered one... I'll be taking it on my Southern Tier tour later this month. Should have some real life feedback to share about it.
adamrice
02-03-10, 11:03 AM
As long as we're tossing around links, Voltaic (http://www.voltaicsystems.com/bag_generator.shtml) makes a product that strikes me as interesting. I don't know that much about PV cells, but I get the impression there are the low-efficiency cheap ones and the high-efficiency expensive ones. This looks to use one of the latter; the product includes a battery to buffer the incoming power. It's expensive, but hey, so is a SON dyno hub.
Road Fan
02-04-10, 08:58 AM
As long as we're tossing around links, Voltaic (http://www.voltaicsystems.com/bag_generator.shtml) makes a product that strikes me as interesting. I don't know that much about PV cells, but I get the impression there are the low-efficiency cheap ones and the high-efficiency expensive ones. This looks to use one of the latter; the product includes a battery to buffer the incoming power. It's expensive, but hey, so is a SON dyno hub.
I have a background in solar arrays for space use, and I can say you are correct, there is a price/performance tradeoff in PV cells. I could not tell you what grade of cell or even the technology (without some study) the Voltaic is made with. But I am impressed with the Voltaic, in that it has a battery to smooth the power delivery, and with a 15 watt rating I think it could actually provide enough power to charge devices in a decent time interval with manageable size.
Actually, their design makes a lot of sense to me.
The Sun delivers 1300 watts/m^2 at the Earth's surface in clear air.
The area of the Generator panel is .408 m*.284 m, for .116 m^2 of area. This assumes the Generator is oriented so it points directly at the Sun.
It recieves (1300*.116=) 149 watts of solar energy.
Assuming 80% of the area is electrically active, the available solar energy is (149*0.8=) 119 watts.
The efficiency of teh cell is in the range of (15/119=) 12.6%.
For a reasonable cost production-grade (lesser than space-qualified or laboratory models) solar cell this is very good efficiency and certainly within the range I'd think is feasible.
I wouldn't guess the technology, beyond that it could be silicon - the next step up in performance is gallium arsenide (GaAs), and I'd assume it's too expensive for a $500 product. There's probably not more than $50 in solar cells there.
I have a background in solar arrays for space use, and I can say you are correct, there is a price/performance tradeoff in PV cells. I could not tell you what grade of cell or even the technology (without some study) the Voltaic is made with. But I am impressed with the Voltaic, in that it has a battery to smooth the power delivery, and with a 15 watt rating I think it could actually provide enough power to charge devices in a decent time interval with manageable size.
Actually, their design makes a lot of sense to me.
The Sun delivers 1300 watts/m^2 at the Earth's surface in clear air.
The area of the Generator panel is .408 m*.284 m, for .116 m^2 of area. This assumes the Generator is oriented so it points directly at the Sun.
It recieves (1300*.116=) 149 watts of solar energy.
Assuming 80% of the area is electrically active, the available solar energy is (149*0.8=) 119 watts.
The efficiency of teh cell is in the range of (15/119=) 12.6%.
For a reasonable cost production-grade (lesser than space-qualified or laboratory models) solar cell this is very good efficiency and certainly within the range I'd think is feasible.
I wouldn't guess the technology, beyond that it could be silicon - the next step up in performance is gallium arsenide (GaAs), and I'd assume it's too expensive for a $500 product. There's probably not more than $50 in solar cells there.
6thElement
02-05-10, 11:17 AM
I like the look of that Voltaic, I wonder if it's possible to use something like that to power my Garmin 705 while I ride.
quester
02-07-10, 11:48 AM
used a solio 3 folder thing on my last tour to charge my ipod and phone. worked fine for me. will be using it again in the future.
Solio's web site has no such thing. Are you talking about the Roksta H1000?
Solio's web site has no such thing. Are you talking about the Roksta H1000?
crtreedude
02-07-10, 12:08 PM
Just an alternate idea, there are crank radio /light / USB charger combos from places like Eastern Mountain Sports. I have no idea how much they put out, but I do have one and I really like it for the light. Just crank it a few times and I have a very nice bright light. It is very light too, since it doesn't have much in the way of batteries. You might to some searching, after all, you don't have to fully recharge the battery, just crank a bit to give you some time.
You can generate a lot of power from cranking something, as anyone who has touched an old crank phone can testify too. :50:
You can generate a lot of power from cranking something, as anyone who has touched an old crank phone can testify too. :50:
kayakdiver
02-07-10, 12:32 PM
Does anyone have any knowledge of this product from Amzer? Not much bigger than an iphone. It probably isn't that efficient from a solar standpoint but I like the option of charging the storage battery with AC when you have access to get me through a few days where I may not have access.
http://www.fommy.com/view-full-page.asp?skuno=83981
I just ordered one... I'll be taking it on my Southern Tier tour later this month. Should have some real life feedback to share about it.
Well it's in my hot little hands and well... It charges my iPod touch 3rd gen. Time will tell if how well but so far this thing is slick. Seems well built, is about the size of an ipod. I'm hoping that the search is over! Thanks for the idea badger_biker.
Kyakdiver
http://www.fommy.com/view-full-page.asp?skuno=83981
I just ordered one... I'll be taking it on my Southern Tier tour later this month. Should have some real life feedback to share about it.
Well it's in my hot little hands and well... It charges my iPod touch 3rd gen. Time will tell if how well but so far this thing is slick. Seems well built, is about the size of an ipod. I'm hoping that the search is over! Thanks for the idea badger_biker.
Kyakdiver
cyclist2000
02-07-10, 09:46 PM
let us know well it works, What phone do you have?
EriktheFish
02-10-10, 09:07 PM
The problems with any solar system is that the little power they do produce, comes in fluctuating power levels. Bright sun generates more that partly cloudy. So you can't use the power directly or it will damage the device your using. So you need a controler / charger and a battery to store the energy. You then charge from that battery. Those items together are very expensive and don't even work all that great, it's the same reason solar will never be a viable energy source for general use.
I've been looking at this charger by PowerFilm. It addresses what gregw is saying by charging batteries in the device first, which then charge your device (and the price is quite reasonable, $80):
http://www.amazon.com/USB-AA-Solar-Panel-Charger/dp/B001RMBHMK/ref=wl_it_dp_o?ie=UTF8&coliid=IOL9YABEI03YQ&colid=P5JDK0F83OA8
I've been looking at this charger by PowerFilm. It addresses what gregw is saying by charging batteries in the device first, which then charge your device (and the price is quite reasonable, $80):
http://www.amazon.com/USB-AA-Solar-Panel-Charger/dp/B001RMBHMK/ref=wl_it_dp_o?ie=UTF8&coliid=IOL9YABEI03YQ&colid=P5JDK0F83OA8
waldowales
02-11-10, 12:03 PM
I have a Solair SP1003 I got for Christmas. I haven't taken it on the road yet, but it should work, if it holds up. Has internal batteries that can be charged from the solar panels, a car lighter socket, or USB port. It has adapters for 11 devices included, and has two USB ports for anything that can charge from a USB port. It will charge my LG cell phone twice before it needs to be recharged. Full charge from completely discharged takes at least six hours in full sun using the panels, about four with a USB or car lighter. I'm looking forward to tour testing it this summer.
It measures about 7"x5"x2" in its carrying case with all adapters, weighs about twenty ounces.
First one was DOA, emailed the company and they promptly replaced it, trusting me to mail the defective one back in the box the replacement came in. (Yes, I did.)
It measures about 7"x5"x2" in its carrying case with all adapters, weighs about twenty ounces.
First one was DOA, emailed the company and they promptly replaced it, trusting me to mail the defective one back in the box the replacement came in. (Yes, I did.)
Road Fan
02-17-10, 04:05 PM
Well it's in my hot little hands and well... It charges my iPod touch 3rd gen. Time will tell if how well but so far this thing is slick. Seems well built, is about the size of an ipod. I'm hoping that the search is over! Thanks for the idea badger_biker.
Kyakdiver
If the Amzer's battery is flat and you have decent sun, how long does it take to recharge a flatlined iPhone?
Kyakdiver
If the Amzer's battery is flat and you have decent sun, how long does it take to recharge a flatlined iPhone?
kayakdiver
02-17-10, 06:11 PM
If the Amzer's battery is flat and you have decent sun, how long does it take to recharge a flatlined iPhone?
RoadFan.... I wish I could tell you. I had planned on leaving next week on tour. Since I was involved in a car/bike accident almost two weeks ago I have been trying to get back on track.
I hope to have some real information coming soon. Bike has been replaced and the body is almost back. Did a 25 mile ride today and although sore.. It's the first real ride in 10 days or so.
RoadFan.... I wish I could tell you. I had planned on leaving next week on tour. Since I was involved in a car/bike accident almost two weeks ago I have been trying to get back on track.
I hope to have some real information coming soon. Bike has been replaced and the body is almost back. Did a 25 mile ride today and although sore.. It's the first real ride in 10 days or so.
mattbicycle
02-18-10, 07:52 AM
I have also thought a lot about one of these devices but am yet to take the plunge. I have two batteries for my mobile phone and two for the camera. On tour, I never use the camera's video screen, rather I use the viewfinder to take pics. I find the two phone batteries are enough. They are so small, cheap and light. If they weren't enough, I'd buy a third. Every few nights when a hotel/guesthouse is needed to have a shower, wash clothes etc, I make sure the phone and camera batteries, and MP3 player are all charged that night. If I am having lunch or dinner at a restaurant, I often ask to charge my phone if the power is very low. I've never been refused.
I'd like the flexibility and independence of a solar charger but at the moment, and with my touring habits, I think it will be a while before I buy one. Hopefully by then prices will have dropped and quality improved as technology in this area advances.
I'd like the flexibility and independence of a solar charger but at the moment, and with my touring habits, I think it will be a while before I buy one. Hopefully by then prices will have dropped and quality improved as technology in this area advances.
Cyclesafe
02-18-10, 08:22 AM
Anybody have an opinion on this?
http://www.tout-terrain.de/2/products/components/the-plug/h-bar.html?start=2
http://www.tout-terrain.de/2/products/components/the-plug/h-bar.html?start=2
LeeG
02-18-10, 09:46 AM
Anybody have an opinion on this?
http://www.tout-terrain.de/2/products/components/the-plug/h-bar.html?start=2
now that's interesting
http://www.tout-terrain.de/2/products/components/the-plug/h-bar.html?start=2
now that's interesting
kayakdiver
02-18-10, 09:51 AM
Anybody have an opinion on this?
http://www.tout-terrain.de/2/products/components/the-plug/h-bar.html?start=2
I think this would be perfect with a rechargable pack that slipped into the steer tube... Now I have to build one ;) I don't want a dyno hub(cost/drag) but this is simple, clean and gives me ideas. If I could just buy the usb steer tube cap and somehow... my wheels are spinning.
Just have to figure out how to charge it without removing it.... That might be the biggest hurdle..
Thread hijack.. sorry.
http://www.tout-terrain.de/2/products/components/the-plug/h-bar.html?start=2
I think this would be perfect with a rechargable pack that slipped into the steer tube... Now I have to build one ;) I don't want a dyno hub(cost/drag) but this is simple, clean and gives me ideas. If I could just buy the usb steer tube cap and somehow... my wheels are spinning.
Just have to figure out how to charge it without removing it.... That might be the biggest hurdle..
Thread hijack.. sorry.