Re: [NTLK] Freeloader with the Newt?

> Hey list,
>
> I know I've not participated in discussion for a while, but I have
> been rather busy (A-Levels!!)
>
> Anyway, I have a question. Has anyone used a Freeloader solar charger
> with their Newt? It comes with a tip which fits the power plug, but
> I'm worried that the voltage/current might not be up to the newt's
> requirements. It provides 5.5v ± 0.5v DC at 500mA. I know Adriano's
> NewtUSB adaptor can charge the newt from USB, and these voltages are
> close to USB (it even comes with a USB 'tip' for plugging your USB
> powered device into it with), but I still worry if it's a good idea
> to use the Freeloader as everyone says to only use a proper Newton
> adaptor and all that...
>
> For those of you who've yet to meet this beast, here's the website:
>
> http://www.solartechnology.co.uk/products/solar_chargers/freeloader.asp
>
> Or in tinyurl form:
>
> http://tinyurl.com/2cjluf

Seems to me that if you used Adriano's NewtAC adaptor the Freeloader would
work well enough. I doubt it will produce a 100% charge with only 5V going
in, but that should be enough to get some decent work done. You would have
to have a really good reason, like logging data at a remote location for
days on end, because an A/C adaptor is a whole lot more portable than a
Freeloader. Maybe sailing ...

What I can't understand is why using a non-logoed brick will damage a Newt.
7.5V is 7.5V ... as long as the connector is physically correct and
polarized. Can anyone explain why, or why not, a generic brick will kill
the Newt power management unit?

Gary Dunn
Honolulu
Open Slate Project
    http://openslate.net/
73 BMW E9 (3.0 CS) 2213583 (rust repair research project)
    http://e9erust.blogspot.com/

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Received on Thu Jul 10 22:29:26 2008