Apr 28 2009

Bikecharger, Powertank M, Oregon

Mobile power supply chain

Mobile power supply chain


The image shows my new ensemble of USB gadgets, the mobile power supply chain I will be using for further touring. Located uppermost is the JaWeTec bikecharger, that I had used formerly. See my previous posts about this topic. The bikecharger is connected to the dynohub und will create constant DC of 5V at its USB-out which is wired to DC-in of the new lightweighted SwissBatteries PowerTank M. This basically is some sort of optimized rechargable LiPo battery pack with some electronic circuit. The PowerTank will on the other hand permanently feed the Garmin GPS (without internal batteries) at its USB-out. This works, but I need to test whether the bikecharger will be able to keep up enough power level to ensure continuous operation of the GPS in the long run.

Related posts:

  1. Testing the Mobile Power Plant
  2. USB power supply
  3. Attaching GPS Device
  4. USB Charger for Dynamo Hub
  5. Garmin Oregon Bicycling Screenshots

4 Comments

  • By Peter, July 23, 2009 @ 17:08

    I’ve been in touch with SwissBatteries about the PowerTank – they say you don’t need the Bikecharger, you can connect the Powertank straight to the dynamo – have you tried this?
    I’ve ordered one, so will report back

  • By flatboarder, July 23, 2009 @ 21:44

    Well, it really makes me wonder. At least, you need to manufacture your own cable or get one at Swissbatteries. Actually, I do not believe, but let me know, just in case.

  • By Peter, August 3, 2009 @ 09:28

    You were right to be sceptical – I tried it as they suggested and managed to damage the PowerTank. It was promptly replaced by SwissBatteries, but I’m still trying to find out how I can connect it and make it work. I hope to sort this out in the next couple of weeks

  • By flatboarder, August 4, 2009 @ 13:18

    I guess you need to stick to the DC input methods specified by the Powertank, e.g. USB in, 12V vehicle power supply or generic 110V/240V power supply with included transformation adapter. USB-in seems to be perfectly appropriate with dynohub (by use of bikecharger, Stollberg charger or Zzing charger or whatever). 12V may be appropriate with some solar systems and for cars. I do not believe the Powertank would take any sort of AC supply as like direct connection to dynohub.
    Good luck!

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