Brunton Restore Portable Solar Power Device
Brunton Restore Portable Solar Power Device – portable solar iPod charger
The Brunton Restore Portable Solar Charger is not much bigger than an old school iPod and can charge your iPod, cell phone, or other portable electronic device as long as you’ve got some sunlight. The compact charging unit flips open to reveal two solar panels that turn the sun’s rays into power so you can keep listening to your tunes miles from any electrical outlet.
A water-resistant and durable shell keeps the unit well protected so you can carry it without much worry in all outdoor conditions. In addition to charging with the sun’s rays, an internal rechargeable lithium battery can be charged in the car with the included DC adapter or from a computer via USB.
For those of you that know what these sorts of electrical terms mean, the battery stores up to 2,200 mAh and provides 1,000 mA/5V output.
The quick & dirty:
Where you can find one:
REI: $89.95
Amazon: $68.99
Why they rock:
- Water resistant
- Durable rubberized shell
- Internal rechargeable lithium polymer
- Power gauge and auto shut-off
- Solar Panel: Two (2) 100 mA polycrystalline
- Battery Storage: 2,200 mAh battery.
- Output: 1,000 mA / 5V (USB 2.0 compatible)
- Dimensions: 3″ x 5.75″ x 1.13″
- Weight: 7.2 oz
- Mini-USB output with option to purchase adapters for all other handheld electronics
- Charges from solar panel, computer USB or from included DC adapter
Seat-of-the-pants rating: ? out of 10
I checked out the Brunton Restore Portable Solar Power Device at the last Outdoor Retailers show, but I can’t vouch for its performance and reviews seem to be mixed. Reviewers have said that it is easy to use, but have complained that it takes too long to charge.
I sort of laugh at those that complain that it takes too long to charge, you can’t really expect this little unit to charge your cell phone in a half hour. Portable solar chargers are new to the market so hopefully they will get more and more efficient, but for now they are really only good if you are spending a lot of time out in the woods and they are your only option. They are not a good alternative to travel converters and adapters.
Looking to buy? Here’s where you can get one:
REI: $89.95
Amazon: $68.99
Anyone out there used a portable solar charge? What did you think?