Blog of Wishes

You have a laptop, but when you are on the go its battery doesn’t last long enough. Have you ever wished you could have a battery that will allow you to run your portable computer without the need of a power outlet for 12, 16 or even 24 hours? Then Electrovaya PowerPad 160 is just the thing you need…

What is Electrovaya’s PowerPad?
Electrovaya PowerPad 160 is a kind of external rechargeable battery for notebook computers that can store 160 watt-hours of energy in a package less than 3/8″ (10mm) thin and having the same footprint as a standard laptop computer (weighting only 2.4lb or 1.1kg). It can run a laptop for up to 16 hours from a single charge. The pack is convenient to use with a universal cord with detachable connectors to fit most portable computers and can be easily stored away.

What is run time of the PowerPad 160
Electrovaya has tested the PowerPad 160 with simulation software and has achieved 16 hours of run-time, with the notebook’s Power Management set to its most efficient battery use. Our internal tests indicate that the PowerPad160 has approximately 160 watt-hours of energy capacity and enables users to run most laptops for 12 to 16 hours, compared to single batteries typically installed in portable computers, which generally have between 30-40 watt hours and 2 to 4 hour run-times. This simulation package runs through various software programs to simulate “regular use.” The actual run-time will vary depending on the type of software used, the type of screen, etc. For instance, continuous running of the DVD will reduce the run-time achieved due to the greater consumption of energy by this application.

How long does it take to recharge my PowerPad 160?
The PowerPad 160 takes approximately 4 hours to charge to 80% capacity and another hour to charge fully. To recharge the PowerPad, connect your notebook computer’s AC Adapter to the recharge port on the PowerPad connection cable and then plug the other end of the adapter into a wall outlet.

Other choices…
Besides the PowerPad 160, which seems to be the best model in terms of price/performance ratio, there are also 80, 120 and 300 Wh models, so you can easily get the one that best fits your needs. You should have in mind that the top model (PowerPad 300) is quite expensive ($799) although it offers up to 24 hours run time… it is just that for about 800$ you can get a quite decent laptop 😉

PowerPad 160 specifications
– Capacity: 15~20 Volts, 11Ah, 160 Wh
– Charge time: 80% charge in 4 hours
– Dimensions: 3/8″ thin, 8.75″ x 11.75″
– Weight: 2.4 lbs or 1.1 Kg
– Casing: rugged metal casing
– Operating temperature: 0°C (32°F) to 60°C (140°F)
– Run-time: up to 16 hours for most laptop computers

Price of the PowerPad 160: $449

– Get more information about Electrovaya’s PowerPads
– List of mobile computers that are supposed to work with PowerPad