While looking up a product URL for the SideWinder thread, I ran across the Freeplay FreeCharge Weza. We were just noting how tired your arm gets cranking these wind up devices and I was thinking that a foot-operated charger would be nice. Well, hello, the Weza can be charged using a stepping action, like those foot-operated air pumps. Since I use the StairMaster at the gym on most days, I would hope that I could get some decent power out of it. <img src="/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

It's internal battery can also be charged by 110-240V AC or 12-18V DC power sources. For output, the website says it can jump start boat and car motors, as well as power your GPS, handheld radios, and mobile or satellite phones. Hmmm, rather intriguing.

Anyone have any experience with this product?

Yes, I know it's been 2 years since this post, but I have just discovered the Weza and I am very interested. I just searched the ETS forums but apart from this message (which had no responses) there is nothing.

Here's the manufacturer's information page (which is remarkably comprehensive):

http://www.freeplayenergy.com/products/portable-power/portable-energy/weza/overview

but does anyone have one?

Regardless of that, what do y'all think about it?

A

I haven't used one of these. But I have owned some related items, so based on the specs, here's an armchair commentary (and we all know what they're worth ;-).

First of all, it's a Freeplay. That generally means well-constructed, good components, good quality battery, quite reliable, and long service life overall.

The only unique feature here is the foot-powered generator. Much more powerful and versatile than hand cranks.

My question is, what would a person use it for?

7 Ah is not a lot -- it's fine for running small electronics or LED lighting, or acting as a buffer between solar panels and applicances. It would turn over a small engine a few times; but 20 Ah is more like it for real boosting capacity.

The battery is a lead acid "gel cell," which is fine for indoor/outdoor use since it doesn't breathe hydrogen. Note, though, you shouldn't try to charge these in sub-freezing temperatures.

It doesn't have an inverter built in (all the offshore competition does); for that price it should have.

The weight comes in at 18+ lbs. That means you're using it at home or transporting it in a vehicle. In either case, you may have access to better charging options than the foot-powered item (solar panel, DC from engine or isolated deep-cycle battery). If all you need is a cell charger, or flashlight battery charger, a hand crank unit would be adequate.

I guess, for me, it comes down to cost. I think it's too expensive for what you get. Except for the charger part, I could build my own for a quarter of the cost.

All that said, though, if lost in the barrens or evacuating a disaster area, it would be endlessly more practical than some things people pack (X-box, budgies). I just wish I could buy the pushme-pullyou generator as a separate item.

I've been looking at the weeza for a long time, but I invested in a portable solar panel and can't really think of a reason to justify buying the foot crank. It still grabs my interest ever time I see it, though. I own several winders and three of them are Freeplay and I think they are good quality-well built.