Power it Up

PowerPak-UltraNew Trent has introduced its PowerPak Ultra, which allows users to keep their USB-based devices juiced up even in the most extreme environments. It features a rugged exterior, and has an IP-67 rating, which means it can survive most drops and can even be temporarily submerged in water for up to 30 minutes. It packs 14,000 mAh of power or enough to store 700 percent of the average smartphone’s battery. With two USB ports it can simultaneously juice up almost any combination of smartphones, tablets and other USB-based devices.

New Trent PowerPak Ultra Official Website

Pure ENERGI Plus!

TYLTThe new TYLT backpack will ensure that your gizmos and gadgets are juiced up when you need them. The ENERGI+ Backpack features a built-in charging system via a removable 10,400mAh rechargeable lithium ion battery. The 11 ounce battery features seven pass-thrus and can charge three devices simultaneously, while the backpack still offers 1,450 cubic inches of internal space and 13 total pockets. Specs after the jump

Pedi Not Pedal Power

PediPowerWe write about “pedal power” a lot – as in bicycle transportation and ways that pedaling can create some energy. However, some mechanical engineering students at Rice University are looking to create PediPower, which can turn the motion from walking into a system to juice up portable electronics.

The students behind the project, who go by the name “Agitation Squad,” created a shoe-mounted generator mounted at the heel. Except for running the heel is typically the first part of the foot to make contact with the ground, and here the team mounted a device that is connected to a gearbox, and with every step a little energy is gathered as the gearbox turns a motor and sends electricity to a battery pack.

While still in prototype the goal of the Agitation Squad is for another team to pick up the project and see where they can take it. Perhaps in the future a walk to the store could provide some power to juice up the phone or portable music player. Video after the jump

Charge of the Light Battery

Sigma-IICONIf you’re riding with a light system that includes a battery power you could have an extra way to give your phone the juice it might need. This is the concept behind Sigma Sport’s IICON cable that allows users to power up their mobile phones, cameras and GPS units via the battery pack.

The IICON attaches to the IION/IION XL battery pack and a red LED indicator light shows that the device is being charged. The IICON is completely watertight for use even in damp conditions. Now this is still a robbing Peter to pay Paul type situation, especially if you need to ride home and actually need the light but sometimes being able to make that call can be a godsend!

Sigma Sports Official Website

Swiss Army Charger

We’ve seen a number of Swiss Army Knife related products, but Wenger, the maker of the famous blade from the Alps has introduced something completely different, namely a solar panel for outdoor use that includes a built-in rechargeable battery pack for use with smartphone, tablet, MP3 player, digital camera or GPS device. The Wenger solar charger isn’t packed with blades, but it is multifunctional and can be used while stationary or even when hiking as it can strap over a bag or pack.

Wenger Official Website