Photonera: Portable, foldable powerbank with solar panel that can even charge notebooks
Photonera: Powerbank with integrated solar cell. (Image source: Photonera)
The Photonera is a portable solar generator which, despite its relatively compact dimensions, is suitable for charging notebooks. When folded up, the system is not much bigger than a smartphone.
The Photonera, a new power bank with an integrated solar cell, is currently being funded on Kickstarter. Such devices are not unusual, but the system does have one special feature: it is said to be able to output up to 65 watts via USB PD, which is a relatively high charging capacity. This means that compatible notebooks can be recharged and not just smartphones. In theory, it is thus possible to work with a notebook for extended periods of time in the absence of any other charging solution and only with the power of the sun via the Photonera, provided there is strong and plentiful sunlight. The power bank's capacity is specified as only 10,000 mAh, so notebooks with a large battery are unlikely to be fully charged. A display is available.
The system is equipped with 10 individual solar panels, which can then be unfolded. When folded, the device measures 96 x 146 x 40 millimeters; when unfolded, it measures 278 x 480 x 22 millimeters. The output of the solar cells is stated as 25 watts, which is the maximum output that can only be achieved in full sunlight. The weight is stated as 560 grams. Alternatively, the power bank can be charged with up to 65 watts via USB-C. In addition to the USB-C port, the model also has a USB-A port, which can output power at 24 watts.
The Photonera can currently be ordered via Kickstarter at a starting price of around $79. Potential supporters should be aware of the financial risks of crowdfunding campaigns.
When folded up, the device is very portable. (Image source: Photonera)
Editor of the original article:Silvio Werner - Senior Tech Writer - 14900 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2017
I have been active as a journalist for over 10 years, most of it in the field of technology. I worked for Tom’s Hardware and ComputerBase, among others, and have been working for Notebookcheck since 2017. My current focus is particularly on mini PCs and single-board computers such as the Raspberry Pi – so in other words, compact systems with a lot of potential. In addition, I have a soft spot for all kinds of wearables, especially smartwatches. My main profession is as a laboratory engineer, which is why neither scientific contexts nor the interpretation of complex measurements are foreign to me.
Translator:Jacob Fisher - Translator - 2048 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2022
Growing up in regional Australia, I first became acquainted with computers in my early teens after a broken leg from a football (soccer) match temporarily condemned me to a predominately indoor lifestyle. Soon afterwards I was building my own systems. Now I live in Germany, having moved here in 2014, where I study philosophy and anthropology. I am particularly fascinated by how computer technology has fundamentally and dramatically reshaped human culture, and how it continues to do so.
