Hi John,

I will start this reply by saying that I am not very knowledgable when it comes to electricity, so consider this information as real basic.

I have an Eliminator Powerbox 600amp that I bought at Canadian Tire, it provides both 120 volt AC and 12 volt DC portable power, and has a built-in light, booster cables and air compressor. It can be recharged off, 120 volt household current, 12 volt vehicle plug-in and with a solar panel. I use it regularly to boost vehicles, power lights/tools and inflate tires, it is very handy.

Here is a link, I an sure retailers in the USA sell something similar, http://www.canadiantire.ca/browse/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524443271701&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474396672502&bmUID=1217307644862

This link may not work, Google Canadian Tire Eliminator Power Box and you will find a selection of them.

There are also larger and smaller models available.

Mike