Voltaic makes tons of solar-charging gear, from laptop bags to backpacks, but what are those living in a post-PC world to do? Well, the company just unveiled its Spark Tablet Case -- a thin, padded tote designed for your iPad or other slate that can generate 8-watts of power in sunlight. In addition to directly charging your iPad in about 10 hours, it can also bank the Sun's rays in a universal battery pack, for use when those fluffy things in the sky don't cooperate with your outdoor computing schedule. Optionally, the included V39 USB Battery can be charged (as you may have guessed) via USB, for extra insurance. The Spark is available now for $299 and extra battery packs can be had for $99. Check out the gallery below and the PR after the break.
Voltaic Spark Tablet Case and V39 USB Battery
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Voltaic Launches Solar Charger for iPad
New York, NY – June 23, 2011 - Voltaic Systems today opened up opportunities for grid-free computing with the availability of its iPad solar charger, the Spark Solar Tablet Case.
Perfect for mobile workers and global travelers, the Spark provides an hour of iPad video playback for every hour in direct sunlight. In addition, it will charge the Blackberry Playbook, T-Mobile G-Slate, Samsung Galaxy Tab, the ASUS Transformer and most handheld electronics. When the sun is unavailable, the internal battery holds one complete iPad charge. The battery can also be re-charged from a wall or car charger.
"Voltaic set out to design a lightweight case that could charge a tablet quickly, but also match the sleekness and simplicity of the many of the tablets," said Shayne McQuade, CEO of Voltaic Systems. "The Spark Solar Case is a powerful and compact way to carry and charge an iPad."
Voltaic is also launching today the V39 USB Battery, which provides backup power for iPads, other tablets and smartphones.
8 Watts of Power for Fast Charging
On the front of each case are four two-Watt solar panels. Solar charge times are determined by the total area and efficiency of the solar cells -- the Spark uses high-efficiency monocristalline cells which will charge an iPad from about 10 hours of sunshine. The cells are encased in a clear, UV and scratch resistant coating. The rugged panels are waterproof and built to withstand the abuse of everyday use.
High Output, Dual-Port Battery
Many tablets, including the iPad, can charge quickly from high-powered USB ports which output 2Amps, four times the current of a standard USB port. The Spark's 39 Watt hour battery has both a high-powered USB port for tablets and a standard USB port for phones and other handheld electronics.
Power for Digital Cameras
Fast charging for a tablet also means fast charging for professional DSLR cameras. Users can connect a car charger cradle for their camera battery to the solar output of the Spark, which is switchable between 6 and 12 Volts.
Protective and Lightweight Case
The Spark case is fully padded and lined for a snug and soft fit. It can be held by its handle, carried using the removable shoulder strap, or placed inside a backpack or other bag.
Key features and specifications of the Spark Solar Case include:
+ 8 Watts solar power, switchable between 6 and 12 Volts – panels available in silver or charcoal
+ 39 Watt hour battery with low-power and high-power USB ports
+ Charging cable with 5 standard adapters to connect to most handheld electronics
+ 13.5" high x 10.5" wide x 2" inches
+ About 2.5 pounds including solar panels and battery
+ Waterproof fabric manufactured from recycled PET
Availability
The Spark Solar Case and V39 External Battery are available now on www.voltaicsystems.com and with select retailers. To purchase and for more information, go to www.voltaicsystems.com/spark and www.voltaicsystems.com/v39
Voltaic was founded in 2004 to develop energy solutions using environmentally-intelligent designs. For more information please visit www.voltaicsystems.com, or contact us at 1.877.304.6861 x701 or media@voltaicsystems.com. Hi-Resolution photos are available upon request.
