Dynamos and power requirements
 

I'm new to this whole thing, so if there's a sticky I've missed, let me know.


I've been looking into Dynamos, and it seems likely I should go for the hub type. I've been looking at this one.
My questions are these:
How difficult is it to wire in my various electronics?
I use my phone (HTC Incredible) for GPS tracking, but if it's available, I'd also like to power an iPod and in the future some lights. I'll definitely need USB for these things.
Is that a sufficient model for my power requirements?
Would I be better off going solar? I already have 2 Coleman panels, don't know their output though.
I have 3 bikes, would it be easy to switch this between the 2 mountain bikes(Crossover is off limits)?

I'll update with more questions, because I can't remember them right now.

It looks like these hubs put out unregulated varying frequency AC. You'll need to come up with an efficient switch-mode rectifier/regulator to use its output for anything other than running incandescent bulbs. I don't know if something like that is commercially available, though there may be things you could find that might be adapted for that purpose...or if you have electrical engineering inclinations, could design and build yourself.

It's a good hub. I used to have one on my commuter. The Biologic Reecharge (http://www.thinkbiologic.com/product...rge-power-pack) works pretty well as a regulator and should power your phone well enough for GPS

That looks like just the ticket.

The reecharge easily keeps my iphone 4 at 100% while running motionx mapping full brightness, constant on, swiveling to keep north up, etc.

Two caveats:

- the reecharge battery has to be charged up. Mine is normally 100% as it's always fed the dynamo power except when I'm using my edelux.
- the battery won't charge the phone past 80% or so when it's not being charged, either via the wall socket or the dynohub.

Those caveats aside, it works great.

leave your phone and ipod in your seat bag while riding. charging an ipod with a dynamo hub OY

Right. Wait until you're home then ride your bike on rollers to charge the phone and ipod.

Thanks for the help everyone. That link is very helpful.
What does OY mean?

I think it is along the line of ( pain, or surprise )

The circuit you need to build is pretty straight forward if you want to charge off of a 5V 1A USB port.

I don't have anything to hand right this second but send me a message if you want the details (the few that there are!) for I am going to bed now!

The prices they charge for the commercial options are astonishing.