Alternative Power

MicroFuel Cells Inc. (MTI (News - Alert) Micro), which develops Mobion off-the-grid portable power solutions launched an embedded micro fuel cell prototype for handheld global positioning system (GPS) devices, the company announced at the 10^th Annual International Small Fuel Cells Conference in Atlanta. It also showcased a micro fuel cell powered GPS prototype.

 

The new Mobion powered GPS prototype provides three times more energy compared to four disposable AA battery powered GPS devices, and has the capacity to generate 60 hours of continuous power. The Mobion powered GPS prototype has a USB interface to be used as independent energy source in a number of devices, like cell phones, digital cameras, or any other handheld electronic devices. It is also rechargeable with a refill of methanol.

 

“MTI Micro is exploring the integration of our Mobion platform with GPS devices as part of our strategy to bring micro fuel cell technology to a wide range of portable consumer electronic device market segments,” said Peng Lim, President and CEO of MTI. “Battery life is a key issue with handheld GPS devices, especially as manufacturers add advanced energy-hungry features to new models, such as larger full color screens. Our Mobion powered GPS prototype will provide handheld GPS users the peace of mind of much longer usage time and will help them do away with the expense, bulk and environmental unfriendliness of conventional batteries.”

 

The embedded micro fuel cell prototype design for GPS devices is expected to be release shortly, following the release, earlier this year, of a Mobion powered camera-grip attachment for digital SLR cameras, which has the capacity to generate double the energy compared to the present battery pack camera-grips of the same size.

 

The Mobion direct methanol fuel cell technology is being promoted for commercial use, allowing instantaneous recharging capabilities and also improved performance.