Power Monkey eXplorer — Review

Device Review:  Power Monkey eXplorer Portable Charger, by Timothy Noordewier

The battery unit on the Power Monkey eXplorer stores power from the solar panels.

The Power Monkey eXplorer serves as one of my favorite portable charging options due to its extreme portability, utility, and durability.  Each kit contains one 2200mAH battery, one Solar Slave foldable solar panel, a nylon carry case with zipper, a protective case for the solar panels, three different wall plugs for worldwide travel, a holding strap to attach the panels, and ten of the most common adapters.

What makes the Power Monkey eXplorer unique is that all components of the device are coated in a water resistant rubber coating.  The solar panels and even the battery unit are designed to withstand extreme outdoor situations, making the Power Monkey ideal for hiking, backpacking, or any other outdoor need.  The lightweight (83g) Power Monkey can serve as a wonderful alternative for those who do not wish to purchase an entire solar backpack, also available through The Solar Angels.  The solar panels are designed so that they can be strapped to a backpack, tent, or anything in direct sunlight.

While testing this product, I made an unexpected discovery that applies to all solar charging.  One of my tests was to place the device in direct sunlight and then time how long it took to charge.  I did not realize that there was an error in this test.  I placed the device in sunlight that came in through my front window, not knowing that argon gas inside the window would limit the sun’s rays drastically.  Many modern windows are filled with argon gas as an insulator to prevent sun damage to furniture inside.  When placed outside in true direct sunlight, I observed a 300% increase in the battery charge given the same amount of time!

The Solar Slave (included) captures electricity to be stored in the battery unit for later consumption.

The 2200mAH battery capacity often provides users with the ability to charge devices multiple times.  In another test, I noted that I was able to fully charge my cell phone for three days in a row from one single charge of the Power Monkey eXplorer.  It is helpful that the device conserves electricity by including a feature that automatically shuts off the battery once it detects that the cell phone (or any other small electronic device) is no longer drawing power.  The battery unit also features short circuit protection, over-charging protection, and over-discharging protection.  An LED lit display lets users know how much charge is available.

Six hours of sunlight will charge the device by one-third, equivalent to one average cell phone charge.  The solar panels contain an LED that alternates between red and green to display how much output they are producing.  They have an output of 5V and a maximum current of 200mA.

I would like to remind all users that water-resistant does not mean water-proof, and would recommend fully charging the Power Monkey eXplorer via AC cable before embarking on an outdoor adventure.  The only downside is that the device takes a while to fully charge.  The good news is that it doesn’t need to be fully charged in order to provide enough power for most use.

For more information or any questions you may have, please contact me at: Tim@TheSolarAngels.com.  Here at The Solar Angels we offer competitive pricing and would love to hear from you.  This review is brought to you by Timothy Noordewier of The Solar Angels.

Product Summary

Pros:

• High capacity battery (2200mAH)

• 10 adapters (including iPod and female USB)

• Nylon case with zipper

• Built in LED indicator

The LED lit display shows the amount of electricity in the battery unit.

• AC power cable in event sunlight is not available (American, Pacific Islands, United Kingdom, & Japanese)

• Water-Resistant

• Foldable solar panels

• Holding strap for panels

• More adapters available

• Safety features to prevent “device frying”

• Energy conservation (shuts off when current stops)

• Lightweight (553g entire kit)

• Available in blue, yellow,pink, or standard

Cons:

• Requires long time to fully charge via solar panel (18hrs.)

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