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    Solar charging a notebook

    Discussion in 'Accessories' started by SSJ, Apr 13, 2010.

  1. SSJ

    SSJ Notebook Evangelist

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    I hope someone here with experience guide me through this a bit.

    Ok let's assume long journey, no usual power source where you just plug in.
    It's gotta be mobile, it must fit into a bag.

    Is it even possible with the efficiency of nowadays solar cells ?
    Just charging would be enough.

    I've seen some neat solutions, like a bag or case covered with solar cells.
    But how long do you need to reload a battery completely with let's say 66.6W , 6000 mAh , assuming it's shining all the time?
    Is half a day enough to reload such a battery?

    What other equipment do i asbolutely need besides the solar cells?

    Cost doesn't really matter (but should stay under 1500$), as long as the solution is sturdy, reliable and mobile.
     
  2. John Ratsey

    John Ratsey Moderately inquisitive Super Moderator

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    Something like this may be of interest (that link is for UK but there should be something similar on the other side of the pond). 13W output would recharge your battery in half a day.

    Many of these chargers have a 12V output (they are usually used to top up 12V batteries) so you would also need a 12V PSU to convert the voltage into something your computer likes.

    Perhaps someone somewhere makes a solar charger with switchable output voltages and plugs to directly fit into different laptops, but I haven't seen one.

    John
     
  3. Tinderbox (UK)

    Tinderbox (UK) BAKED BEAN KING

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  4. SSJ

    SSJ Notebook Evangelist

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    Thanks for the tips.

    Gotta read through all this.