I recently got a
Solio Classic 2 for the cell phone. It has a USB (~5V) output. What are some more ways, besides a cell phone charger, I can use this little guy? I'm thinking low power applications like powering a flashlight or a radio receiver. Any thoughts (or schematics
) for wiring something like that up?
Two options come to mind immediately: A USB reading light would give you a little bit of light and a very long runtime. Another option would be a flashlight that recharges via USB. I backed the
Hexbright on Kickstarter and I'll write a review here once I get it.
Next application would be my comms. I'm a ham operator so I love to still be able to talk when the cell towers die. This came in handy twice so far (#1 Virginia earthquake, #2 Hurricane Sandy). I was able to call for help for others and myself if I needed to and stay in the know by using my vehicle radio and handheld.
I charge the HTs regularly. My primary HT is a Kenwood TH-F6A, and I have two of the 4000 mAh aftermarket batteries for it. One of those, fully charged, gives me a great deal of operating time.
Now, this is where I want to get comms-wise. I would like to solar power a QRP (low power) station. Here's the catch: man-portable and 5 watts out. I found a great transceiver. The
MantiZ FX-2 looks to be the station of choice.
That looks very cool. I don't know Morse, so I'd need to power something capable of PSK31 as well.
Yaesu has the FT-817ND, which is an all-in one solution for man-portable QRP, and comes with a battery pack. At 9.6V and 1400mAH, it's clear that you don't need a hulking big car battery to operate. Perhaps you should look for something in that capacity range?
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