Originally Posted By: Russ
Originally Posted By: Susan
Are solar chargers for cellphones SPECIFIC to cellphones (and iPod things), or could a solar charger for use in charging a car battery be used?

Sue, electronically challenged to the max
I have a solar panel designed to plug into my truck to charge the 12v battery. Keep that charged and then just get chargers designed to plug into a car's 12 volt system. Those are available for cell phones and some laptops. My truck has a standard lighter (optional these days) with two additional accessory jacks.


Agree that this is best.
Use a large 12 volt battery, charged from a decent sized PV module.
Then charge all small gadgets from this large 12 volt battery by means of in car chargers.
The large battery may be either in a vehicle, or not as prefered.
For regular use a deep cycle battery should be used, but in an emergency vehicle batteries will do.

If a vehicle is being used, then remember that an extra battery may be charged at almost no extra fuel cost, when the vehicle is being driven. This second battery can then be used indoors for lighting or charging cellphones etc.