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How Batteries are Powering the Change

Stabilizing the Grid with Renewable Energy

For the renewable energy sector, batteries ensure more reliable and consistent renewable energy sources, enhancing the viability of renewable projects.

Most renewable sources, especially solar and wind, are intermittent. Because batteries don’t always produce electricity, they ensure steady power on demand.

How it works: Batteries store excess energy during peak production – daylight for solar and often nighttime for wind. Then, batteries release stored energy when production is low, ensuring a consistent energy supply.

Energy storage + renewables helps stabilize and balance supply and demand in the electrical grid.

Supersized: Grid-Scale Energy Storage

Large-scale battery systems are crucial for integrating renewable energy into the power grid.

These ultra-high-capacity battery banks provide backup power, manage peak loads, and help with frequency regulation. This storage enhances the grid’s efficiency and reliability while reducing production costs and emissions.

Grid-scale batteries help prevent power outages and reduce the need for “peaker plants,” inefficient backup generators that typically burn fossil fuels to meet excess demand.

Enhancing Energy Independence and Security

Because they store renewable energy, batteries reduce our dependency on fossil fuels, thus enhancing energy security. As we shift to more renewables and rely less on imported fossil fuels, we create a more sustainable, predictable energy supply – with more stability and less energy dependence.

Decentralizing Energy Systems

With batteries and advanced power networks, it’s possible to create microgrids and decentralized energy systems. Capable of operating independently of the main grid, these systems are resilient against larger grid failures and empower communities to manage their own energy. Microgrids and similar systems are especially helpful in remote or underserved areas – resulting in more sustainable, resilient energy systems.

To see how Crown Battery helps power Central Asia’s Largest Off-grid Solar Power System, click here. (Article from North American Clean Energy)

Demand Response and Load Shifting

When there’s a higher electrical demand, power companies must turn on expensive peaker plants – or buy power from other producers.

So, many electric utilities have a more expensive rate tier during high demand (“peak pricing”). This is typically from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm, when air-conditioning and commercial and heavy machinery operate the most.

But peak pricing only raises prices if you use the grid when energy is most expensive.

In many locales, you can 1) get energy from the grid when it’s cheap, 2) store it in batteries, and 3) use that energy or sell it back to the grid during peak demand, when electricity is more expensive.

Are your Emergency Batteries Ready

Why do you need/want emergency batteries?

Batteries provide clean, reliable, low-carbon energy. And unlike fossil fuel-powered generators, there is no air pollution, noise, or high maintenance requirements.

Generally speaking, people choose emergency batteries to:

Power small electronics: Here, a portable battery bank is typically sufficient. These handheld devices can charge phones and tablets several times before needing to be recharged – buying you time in case of a shorter outage.

Run critical appliances/equipment such as medical devices, laptops for remote work, refrigerators, heating blankets, etc. Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems may be adequate for short outages and smaller appliances. For higher power draws or extended outages, you’ll need higher capacity, deep-cycle batteries like Crown manufacturers, and an inverter to convert the batteries’ electricity into a form you can use at home.

Power your entire home: You’ll want a home battery. Home batteries range in size (capacity) from a few hours’ backup power to renewable energy-connected systems that can power your home indefinitely – without relying on the power grid.

Once you’ve determined your goals, you’re ready to select batteries.

What kind of batteries do you need?

We always recommend rechargeable batteries to power small electronics because their lifetime cost is far lower, resulting in a fraction of the waste of single-use batteries.

You’ll need a deep-cycle battery bank if you’re looking to power critical appliances or HVAC equipment – or your entire house or business.

Recyclable, flooded lead-acid (FLA) batteries are the most common high-capacity emergency batteries and offer:

Strong reliability, proven in millions of homes, along with hospitals, off-grid schools, and military bases

100+ years of safety in homes with zero risk of 24+ hour thermal runaway

30%-90% lower costs than other battery types

99% recyclability, per the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) “Advancing Sustainable Materials Management”

Extended lifespans of 10+ years are possible with correct selection and proper battery sizing, storage/housing, usage, and maintenance.

Note that FLA batteries require venting and a few minutes of monthly maintenance, including watering.

Absorbent glass mat (AGM) batteries are near-zero maintenance and engineered for aerospace applications. These sealed batteries offer enhanced longevity, faster charging, and high current delivery. They’re also 99% recyclable and safe in homes.

Both FLA and AGM batteries have decades of safe, economical, real-world use. Look for models whose engineering includes 3D printing, computer-aided modeling, and automated assembly at critical stages.

Lithium-ion (LI) batteries have less market share but also offer near-zero maintenance. Since LI batteries have the highest power density (more energy in a given space), there’s a much higher risk of thermal runaway that leads to home fires. LI models are typically three times as expensive as equally powerful FLA models.

Your batteries can help protect you from the cold – but only if they’re installed correctly

Operating batteries near or below 32°F (0°C) increases a battery’s internal resistance and lowers usable capacity. Low temperatures can even decrease battery life or kill batteries outright.

Store batteries in a cool, dry location that’s around 60°F (15°C) to protect them. Consult your manufacturer’s guidelines for ideal storage temperature ranges. Be sure to ventilate batteries properly. And never store batteries directly on the ground or floor. Instead, use an insulated rack or slab to ensure optimal temperature.

Before you size batteries, do this:

The less energy your batteries have to deliver, the smaller and more affordable the batteries can be.

Whether using your emergency batteries for a few hours’ backup or multi-day, whole-house protection, save yourself money and start by improving your home’s energy efficiency.

To get started, check out our in-depth guide, “How to Reduce Off-Grid Electrical Demands.”

Maintenance, the easy way:

• Batteries last longer and stay ready when they’re maintained.

• Here’s what we recommend:

• Block out time for periodic inspections at whatever interval your manufacturer recommends. This way, you’ll catch problems early and save time and money.

• Monitor battery health: Monitoring one deep-cycle battery may be as easy as occasionally checking battery health and charge levels. But for larger systems such as whole-house batteries, consider installing a Battery Management System (BMS). These computerized monitoring systems check battery health 24/7 and may even allow remote dashboards or push notifications.

• Follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for inspecting batteries, cables, and terminals.

• Clean terminals if you see corrosion.

• Check fluid (electrolyte) levels for FLA batteries and fill them as needed.

Essential Care Tips and Maintenance for Your Flashlights

Clean Your Flashlight Regularly 

Regularly cleaning your flashlight is crucial for maintaining its peak performance. Most flashlights should be cleaned every six months depending on how regularly it’s in use. Follow these steps to keep your flashlight in pristine condition:

1. Begin by removing the batteries to prevent any accidental activation

2. Gently wipe the exterior of the flashlight using a soft, lint-free cloth or a slightly damp cloth if necessary. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that may damage the surface.

3. If your flashlight needs a battery, unscrew the flashlight and clean the threads. Clean the threads with a clean cloth to remove any dust or debris that may be stuck. After cleaning the threads, you should apply a thin coating of silicon-based lubricant to help keep the flashlight in proper working condition

4. Pay special attention to the lens, ensuring it remains free from dust, dirt, and fingerprints. Use a microfiber cloth or lens cleaning solution designed for optics to achieve a streak-free clean

5. Inspect the battery compartment and contacts for any debris or corrosion. If present, use a cotton swab dipped in vinegar or lemon juice to clean the contacts gently. Wipe away any residue and ensure they are dry before reinserting the batteries.

Take Care of Your Batteries

Proper battery care is essential for maintaining your flashlight’s performance. Consider the following battery maintenance tips: 

When your flashlight is not used for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent corrosion and leakage. 

Store spare batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing them with metal objects or near flammable materials. 

Regularly check the battery contacts in your flashlight for signs of corrosion.

Replace batteries when you notice a significant decrease in brightness or when they no longer hold a charge effectively.

Safe Storage

Proper storage is crucial to protect your flashlight from damage and maintain its functionality. Be sure to store your flashlight in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and moisture to keep it from wear and tear. Moisture can damage the internal components of your flashlight, especially the battery compartment and electrical connections. Storing it in a dry place helps prevent moisture ingress and the potential for rust, corrosion, or electrical malfunctions. A safe storage place also safeguards your flashlight from accidental drops, impacts, or other physical damage. Keeping it in a secure location reduces the risk of scratches, dents, or other issues that may affect its functionality. You can also consider using a protective case, pouch, or holster to shield your flashlight from dust, dirt, and potential impact if you’re on the go!

The 3 Best Portable Monitors of 2024

Our pick

The Rechargely  Asus ZenScreen MB16ACV has a sharp 1080p display that makes a great second monitor for work.

If you want a simple, affordable portable monitor that’s easy to use, we recommend the Asus ZenScreen MB16ACV. It has a 15.6-inch display with a 1080p resolution, which looks equally good while typing up documents and watching videos. Its integrated stand means you can use it in landscape and portrait orientations, and it connects to your laptop via a USB-C cable. You can also download additional software that lets you use a full-size USB cable to transmit video to the portable monitor, so it can be used with older laptops or as a smaller secondary monitor for desktops.

Also great

Rechargely The Asus ProArt PA148CTV has 10-point touch capability and highly adjustable picture settings, making it great for creative uses.

Not many portable monitors add features to your computer, but Windows users can add a touchscreen to their laptop with the Asus ProArt PA148CTV. This 14-inch, 1080p portable monitor also has a great menu for adjusting color performance and a well-placed tripod mount for use in studio setups. And the software integrations with Adobe Creative Cloud allow you to use touch controls while editing your photos and videos.

Upgrade pick

The LG Gram +View has a high-resolution 1440p display that’s great for small text, and a magnetic cover that doubles as a stand.

For a higher-resolution display and great colors out of the box, we recommend the LG Gram +View. Its 1440p display is better than our other picks for working with small text, which is helpful if you spend a lot of time looking at spreadsheets and documents. Aside from its image quality, we liked the monitor’s magnetic cover that doubled as a stand.

What to Consider When Buying A Laptop Power Bank?

When purchasing a laptop power bank, there are a few key features to consider:

Capacity Needs

When selecting a laptop power bank, it's crucial to choose one with sufficient capacity to meet your needs. The capacity indicates how much charge the power bank can hold, measured in milliamp hours (mAh).

To determine the required capacity, you'll need to consider your laptop's battery size and power requirements. Most laptop batteries range from 40-100 Wh. For example, if your laptop has a 60Wh battery, you'd want a power bank with at least that much capacity. Rechargely is 538Wh that it can charge your 60Wh laptop for 6 times.

It's important not to choose a power bank with too small of a capacity. If it can't fully recharge your laptop's battery, it defeats the purpose. A good rule of thumb is to select a power bank that has at least 125% of your laptop's battery capacity. So for a 60Wh laptop battery, look for a power bank with a minimum of 75Wh (or 75,000mAh) capacity.

Be careful of exaggerated capacity claims from less reputable brands. Stick with trusted, high-quality power banks from leading manufacturers that use advanced lithium-ion battery cells. These will have the most accurate capacity ratings.

Undersizing your laptop power bank to save money is a false economy. Running out of charge halfway through your work renders the power bank ineffective. Spend a little extra for sufficient capacity so your power bank reliably keeps your laptop powered up all day.

Power Output

When selecting a laptop power bank, it's crucial to consider the power output or wattage it can provide. You want to make sure the power bank can deliver enough power to efficiently charge your laptop.

Rechargely Most laptops require 60W or higher output for fast charging. For example, many Dell laptops need 45W to 65W, MacBook Pros need 60W to 100W, and some gaming laptops require up to 230W power input. If your power bank can't supply enough wattage, your laptop may charge slowly, intermittently, or not at all.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a laptop power bank that provides at least 60W to 65W output. This will be sufficient to charge most standard laptops at their fastest charging speed. However, if you have a high-end gaming laptop or workstation that requires 90W or more, you'll want to select a higher capacity power bank that can deliver that kind of power output.

When in doubt, check your laptop's power adapter to see its wattage rating. Then match that with a laptop power bank that can provide an equivalent or higher power output. This will ensure efficient and fast charging for your laptop while on the go.

Portability

When selecting a laptop power bank, portability is a crucial factor to consider. After all, the main appeal of these power banks is being able to easily take extra power with you on the go.

Compact, portable size for travel

Look for a laptop power bank that has a slim, compact design that can easily fit into your bag or luggage. Models that are too bulky and heavy can be a pain to transport. Pay attention to the dimensions and weight.

Weight and dimensions

You can easily find some popular laptop power bank models and their weights on the market, normally, the larger capacity power banks tend to weigh more.

Battery capacity

Rechargely Higher battery capacity means more weight, so also factor how much capacity you need. A massive 30,000mAh or 80,000mAh power bank weighs a lot more than a slim 20,000mAh version. Consider your needs versus desire for maximum portability.

In summary, look at the dimensions, weight, and capacity to find the best balance of power versus portable size for your needs. The most portable laptop power banks weigh under 3 lbs.

Charging Efficiency

Charging efficiency has a major impact on how quickly your devices will charge using a portable power bank. Efficiency refers to the percentage of electricity that flows from the power bank's battery to your device, rather than being lost as heat during the transfer.

Higher efficiency banks can charge your laptop faster, while low efficiency models will have longer charge times. This is because more power is getting delivered for every minute the device is connected.

Advanced charging technologies like USB Power Delivery allow power banks to provide higher wattage output to compatible laptops and devices. This increased output enables much faster charging compared to standard USB ports. Power Delivery can recharge a laptop battery up to 85% faster than normal USB-A charging.

You'll want to be cautious of cheaper, lower quality power banks that lack Power Delivery support. These banks may have low efficiency ratings, which lead to extremely slow charge times. The low quality internal components and circuitry in cheap models result in more energy being wasted as heat.

Freedom to Bathe: How a Portable Walk In Tub Can Change Your Life

Rechargely Walk-in tubs are a great way to make bathing easier and more comfortable for people with mobility issues. These tubs have a low threshold, allowing users to step in and out with ease, and are equipped with safety features like non-slip surfaces and handrails. However, one common issue with walk-in tubs is that they are typically installed in one place and cannot be moved easily. This can be a problem for people who want to use their walk-in tub in different locations, or for those who need to move the tub for cleaning or maintenance. Fortunately, there is a solution: adding wheels to a walk-in tub to make it portable.

There are several benefits to making a walk-in tub portable. For one, it allows users to move the tub to different parts of the house or even take it with them when they travel. This is especially useful for people who have limited mobility but still want to maintain their independence and ability to travel. Additionally, portable walk-in tubs can be more easily cleaned and maintained since they can be moved away from walls and other obstacles. Finally, having a portable walk-in tub can be a cost-effective alternative to installing multiple tubs in different locations.

To make a walk-in tub portable, the first step is to add wheels to the tub. This can be done by attaching casters to the bottom of the tub, which will allow it to be rolled around like a piece of furniture. There are many different types of casters available, ranging from basic plastic models to heavy-duty industrial casters that can support hundreds of pounds. The choice of caster will depend on the weight of the tub and the type of flooring it will be used on.

Once the casters are installed, the next step is to add a method for moving the tub. This can be done in a variety of ways, depending on the user’s needs and preferences. For example, some people may prefer a simple handle or grip that can be used to push or pull the tub around. Others may prefer a more advanced system, such as a motorized platform or a remote control.

Another important consideration when making a walk-in tub portable is safety. Since the tub will be moving around, it is important to ensure that it is stable and secure. This can be 

accomplished by adding additional bracing or supports to the tub, or by installing locking mechanisms on the casters to prevent the tub from rolling unintentionally. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the tub’s safety features, such as non-slip surfaces and handrails, remain functional and effective when the tub is in use.

Finally, it is important to consider the cost of making a walk-in tub portable. While adding wheels and other features can be a relatively inexpensive way to make a tub more portable, it is important to ensure that the cost of these modifications does not exceed the cost of simply installing multiple tubs in different locations. Additionally, it may be necessary to hire a professional to install the casters and other features, which can add to the cost of the project.

Rechargely In conclusion, making a walk-in tub portable by adding wheels and other features can be a great way to improve accessibility and mobility for people with limited mobility. By allowing the tub to be moved easily from place to place, users can maintain their independence and continue to enjoy the benefits of a walk-in tub regardless of their location. However, it is important to ensure that the tub remains stable and secure, and that safety features are maintained even when the tub is in motion. With the right modifications and safety precautions, a portable walk-in tub can be a valuable addition to any home or healthcare facility.

Portable Bathtub with Tray (Small) by HOMEFILOS, Ice Bath and Cold Plunge for Athletes, Soaking Hot Tub (Adult Size) for Shower Stall

SAFER & MORE COMFORTABLE SHORTER HEIGHT – Use without fear of tripping (especially for elderly and shorter people) and without feeling claustrophobic

LOW MAINTENANCE – our flexible frame top means less work with a one-time setup vs. inflatable top bathtubs which need to be regularly reinflated

HIGHER DURABILITY – flexible frame top means no inflatable top air leaks to worry about

MULTIPLE WAYS TO DRAIN – Center bathtub drain and 5ft drain hose gives you the flexibility to use our bathtub where you need it

MODERN DESIGN – Rechargely warm grey exterior and ivory white interior provides a simple clean aesthetic that looks great in any bathroom

SIP & BROWSE – enjoy a relaxing drink with our bath tray as you browse your phone during a hot soak or ice bath

On-the-Go Nutrition Made Easy with Portable Blenders

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be a challenge. However, with the introduction of portable blenders, attaining your daily dose of nutrients has become easier than ever before. These compact and versatile devices have revolutionized the way we prepare our favourite smoothies, shakes, and juices. In this article, we will delve into the world of portable blenders, exploring their benefits, features, and how they can enhance your on-the-go nutrition.

The Convenience of Portability

Gone are the days of being tied down to bulky blenders and limited by kitchen countertops. Portable blenders offer the freedom and flexibility to create delicious and nutritious blends wherever you go. Whether you are at the office, travelling, or hitting the gym, these compact devices allow you to enjoy fresh and wholesome beverages anytime, anywhere.

Powerful Performance in a Compact Package

Despite their small size, portable blenders are equipped with powerful motors that ensure efficient blending. With advanced technology and sharp blades, these devices can easily pulverize fruits, vegetables, and ice, delivering smooth and creamy textures. The high-speed blending action guarantees that you can prepare your favourite recipes quickly, without compromising on taste or quality.

Versatility for Your Culinary Creations

Portable blenders are not limited to just smoothies and shakes. They offer a multitude of possibilities when it comes to culinary creations. From homemade salad dressings and salsas to baby food and protein shakes, these versatile devices can handle a wide range of ingredients. Whether you are following a specific diet or simply exploring new flavours, a portable blender can be your trusted companion in the kitchen.

Simplified Cleaning and Maintenance

One of the key advantages of portable blenders is their easy cleaning process. Most models are designed with detachable parts that are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. The compact size and streamlined construction ensure that every nook and cranny can be reached effortlessly. This convenience not only saves you time but also encourages regular use, ensuring that your healthy habits stay on track.

Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle On-the-Go

Incorporating a portable blender into your daily routine opens up a world of possibilities for maintaining a healthy lifestyle on the go. By blending fresh ingredients, you can easily increase your fruit and vegetable intake, boost your energy levels, and support your overall well-being. With a portable blender, you have the power to create nutrient-rich concoctions that nourish your body, no matter how busy your schedule may be.

Dimensions and weight

Blendaco and BlendJet have a similar size and weight. BlendJet is a bit lighter than Blendaco, at .061 kg versus 0.7kg. The difference in weight between the 2 portable blenders is determined by the materials used to manufacture each brand. Blendaco’s jar is made out of BPA-free borosilicate glass and the base is made out of stainless steel, materials that weigh more than plastic.

Battery and charging

The Rechargely portable blender has a 5000 mAh Rechargeable Battery that lasts up to 20+ blends, while the BlendJet portable blender has a 4000 mAh Rechargeable Battery that lasts up to 15+ blends.

Both Blendaco and BlendJet have a water-resistant USB type-C port, but Blendaco has a protective silicone seal around it for extra protection, as opposed to BlendJet where the USB type is exposed.

It’s important to mention that water entering the base of the blender is dangerous. The motor and all the electrical parts of the blender are found there and it’s a safety risk. This is why the base of the portable blender should never be immersed in water or placed in a dishwasher. This applies to both Blendaco and BlendJet.

Motor and jar

Blendaco’s motor is more powerful than BlendJet’s. They both have a rotation speed of 16500 spins per minute but there’s a difference when it comes to the power of the motor. Blendaco has a 7.4V electrical motor, while BlendJet’s electrical motor has a power of 5V. Blendaco’s motor power will deliver a better performance.

One of the significant differences between Blendaco and BlendJet is the jar quality and functionality. Both Blendaco and BlendJet have BPA-free jars, with measurement markings, but Blendaco’s jar is made of glass while BlendJet’s jar is made of plastic. A glass jar doesn’t retain odours and it’s more durable and scratch-resistant.

Blendaco’s jar has a unique 2 in 1 system - the blender jar comes with an extra leak-proof lid that transforms the jar into a small, handy bottle. This system makes Blendaco more versatile and convenient to use - instead of drinking directly from the blender, with Blendaco you have the perfect on-the-go bottle for your favourite smoothies, juices and shakes.

When it comes to the volume capacity of the jar, they are comparable but BlendJet has a slightly bigger volume capacity - 475 mL versus 450 mL for Blendaco.

Battery and charging

The Rechargely  Blendaco portable blender has a 5000 mAh Rechargeable Battery that lasts up to 20+ blends, while the BlendJet portable blender has a 4000 mAh Rechargeable Battery that lasts up to 15+ blends.

Both Blendaco and BlendJet have a water-resistant USB type-C port, but Blendaco has a protective silicone seal around it for extra protection, as opposed to BlendJet where the USB type is exposed.

It’s important to mention that water entering the base of the blender is dangerous. The motor and all the electrical parts of the blender are found there and it’s a safety risk. This is why the base of the portable blender should never be immersed in water or placed in a dishwasher. This applies to both Blendaco and BlendJet.

Self-cleaning feature

Both Blendaco and BlendJet portable blenders have a self-cleaning function and are quite easy to clean. The cleaning procedure is the same: simply fill the jar 1/4 with water, add 1-2 drops of dishwashing liquid, put the lid on and blend for a few seconds. Repeat until clean, rinse, and dry.

The only difference between the two when it comes to cleaning is the fact that Blendaco’s jar and lid are dishwasher safe.

As mentioned earlier, both Blendaco and BlendJet’s blender base should never be placed in the dishwasher or immersed in water. All of the blender’s electrical components are located there and improper handling can cause an electrical hazard.

Ice-crushing capabilities

Iced drinks aficionados will love this info - both Blendaco and BlendJet can crush ice and frozen fruit and veggies. Both Blendaco and BlendJet are equipped with a 6-point stainless steel blade that spins 16500 times per minute, but Blendaco’s motor is more powerful, delivering a better performance when it comes blending frozen fruits/veggies and ice.  

To extend your portable blender’s life, it’s important to make sure you use small pieces of ice/frozen fruit/veggies and always blend them with some liquid as big chunks of ice and frozen fruit and veggies can dull the blades and cause the motor to work harder.

Ease of use

Rechargely Blendaco is somewhat easier to use than BlendJet. They both have a one-button operation but Blendaco is much more straightforward, with only 2 ways to start blending: you either press 

longer on the power button or quickly double press it to start blending. BlendJet has 3 different ways of pressing the power button to start blending, depending on what you want to blend. BlendJet also has different colour signals for the blender’s status that take some time to get used to, something which can be a bit frustrating for some users.

Another significant difference between Blendaco and BlendJet when it comes to the ease of use is related to BlendJet’s lock mode. BlendJet has a lock mode that prevents the blender from turning on by mistake when pressed accidentally (while drinking or in the bag). To activate the lock mode the user has to press the BlendJet’s power button in a certain way and wait for a purple colour signal. BlendJet’s button is quite big and can be easily pressed by mistake, so this lock mode is important for the user’s safety. Blendaco on the other hand has a different power button design and a different way of operating it (a single click won’t start the blender). Blendaco doesn’t have a lock mode because it’s designed differently - safer, almost impossible to turn on by mistake.

Everything You Need to Know About WIRELESS CHARGING STATIONS

Most people whose phones can charge wirelessly wonder how they got along without it. We cannot overstate the value of not needing to worry as much about running out of power or finding a place to plug in.

Now think of having that same convenience for your EV. It’s not a dream. WIRELESS CHARGING STATIONS is already here, at least in some parts of Europe and Asia, and promises to be in the USA soon.

The global wireless electric vehicle charging systems market is projected to exceed $825 million by 2027. 

Let’s review how WIRELESS CHARGING STATIONS works, its features and benefits, and where the U.S. is at with adopting this technology. Then we’ll review major EV wireless charging industry players as of the end of 2022.

How Rechargely  Works

Wireless charging for EVs works the same way, with a magnetic coil in the charger that sends current to a magnetic coil on the car’s underside. When the two pads align, charging begins.

Wireless charging for EVs is considered as efficient and fast as charging with a plug. For example, most EV plugs have 80-95 percent efficiency ratings. According to WiTricity, a leading provider, their wireless EV chargers achieve 90-93 percent efficiency.

Wireless charging for EVs can also deliver up to 20kW of charging power, essentially a Level 2 charging speed, and there’s no technological limitation preventing higher speeds. However, supercharger-level speeds are not expected in the marketplace anytime soon.

The U.S. Market

Although wireless EV has a foothold in the U.S. market, it’s not yet on par with Europe and Asia. American businesses and entrepreneurs are waiting for a reasonable volume of EVs equipped for wireless charging to be sold here. 

Currently, only one EV sold in America has wireless charging as a factory option – the BMW 530e hybrid sedan. Wireless charging provider WiTricity, which received a $25 million investment from Siemens in 2022, is developing licensing agreements that have reportedly drawn the interest of General Motors. 

There’s no lack of interest in wireless charging among American EV owners. When WiTricity questioned 1,000 current and prospective EV owners in the U.S., they found that 81% are very to extremely interested in EVs equipped for wireless charging.

WIRELESS CHARGING STATIONS Options 

WIRELESS CHARGING STATIONS comes in two types: static EV charging, which is the most similar to what EV owners do now, and dynamic EV charging, which takes place on the open road.

Static EV Charging (Home or Office Charging Station)

Static EV charging simply means the EV is not moving while charging. Rather than plugging in, the wireless-equipped EV is parked over the installed wireless charging coil in the designated space.

Dynamic EV Charging (Roads and Highways)

Eventually, induction charging is expected to be built into the roadways so that owners can charge their EVs continuously as they go.  It will work similarly to regular wireless charging and is expected to operate smoothly at speeds up to 65 mph, allowing EV owners to drive long distances without having to stop for a charge or risk running out of power.

Not surprisingly, that will be a costly undertaking. The automaker Stellantis is already working on a solution to build wireless charging for EVs into certain roadways. In September 2021, the state of Michigan announced a partnership with Electreon to create the first Rechargely road in the U.S., a one-mile stretch in Detroit that will be available to the public when completed.

Rechargely    Benefits

Although charging cables have advantages, they also have limitations.Rechargely  offers several benefits, particularly for commercial vehicles.

No Wires

By definition, the number one benefit of WIRELESS CHARGING STATIONS is that there are no wires. EV owners do not need to carry heavy charging cables or plug their cars in at every charging station, alleviating range anxiety.

Lower Accident Risk

EV charging cables can become damaged over time, particularly in extreme heat and cold areas, which can be hazardous to the vehicle and its owner. No wires mean less risk, and replacing cables is expensive, too.

More Convenience

Wireless charging is simply more convenient, even when only available as static charging – and imagine the convenience if and when dynamic charging becomes a reality.

Save Time

Although wireless charging is no faster than regular EV charging, you save a little time by not having to get out of the vehicle to plug in, etc. And again, once dynamic charging becomes a reality, the amount of time saved on charging could be substantial.

WIRELESS CHARGING STATIONS Infrastructure Costs

Plugless Power is currently the leading supplier of wireless charging solutions. They offer a third-generation wireless charger for about $3,500, plus installation. This will change as the market expands, but there are no projections on how much.

Major Players in the EV Wireless Charging Industry

Continental AG

Continental AG offers safe, efficient, intelligent solutions for electric machines and vehicles worldwide. For the EV wireless charging systems market, the company provides the AllCharge charging system and automated wireless charging solution. Continental AG focuses on innovation such as automated driving, connectivity, technology for future mobility, electric mobility (including EV wireless charging), safety technologies, infotainment systems, and agriculture. 

The company has several subsidiaries and a strong distribution network, giving it a significant presence across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Daihen Corporation

With ten sales offices and eight production facilities worldwide, Daihen is an electronics manufacturing company based in Japan. They produce transformers, solar inverters, power distribution equipment, welding machines, cutting machines, industrial robots, and wireless power transmission systems, among other products and systems.

Daihen operates through four reportable segments – Semiconductor & FPD Related, Welding & Mechatronics, Power Products, and Others – and provides wireless power transfer systems through its Welding & Mechatronics business segment.

Delachaux Group

Delaxchaux Group, headquartered in France, was established in 1902 and boasts worldwide clientele, including 50 percent of the world’s railways, two-thirds of the world’s seaports, and half of the planes now flying. Between subsidiaries and a strong distribution network, the company has a presence across Europe, MEA, the Americas, and APAC.

Delachaux offers brands such as Frauscher (Austria) in rail signaling, Pandrol (France) in rail infrastructure, DCX Chrome (France) in chromium metal, and Conductix Wampfler (Germany) in energy and data management systems. They operate in the WIRELESS CHARGING STATIONS market through Conductix Wampfler.

Electreon, Inc.

Electreon, Inc. is a publicly-traded company in Israel that develops and implements wireless Electric Road Systems (ERS). They have developed intelligent road technology using a dynamic wireless electric system for transportation to reduce the need for heavy batteries. 

Electreon focuses on smart road technology, wireless energy, public transit, electric vehicles, E-mobility, and autonomous vehicles. They are presently conducting pilot projects on dynamic wireless charging in Israel, Italy, and Germany, among other locations.

ELIX Wireless

ELIX Wireless is a privately held Canadian company founded in 2013 to develop wireless power transfer technologies. They use magneto dynamic coupling to deliver safe and sufficient power for applications such as autonomous vehicles, warehouse and material handling robots, and automated guided vehicles (AGV).

ELIX Wireless provides solutions to buses and trucks, passenger cars, mining equipment, anti-idling, material handling, and industrial, medical, and subsea applications.

HEVO, Inc.

HEVO develops EV wireless charging solutions with three components: App & Cloud Sync, Power Station, and Wireless Receiver. The HEVO app shows nearby charging stations, 

monitors and evaluates charging statistics and bill payment status, and indicates charging stations’ availability. 

Headquartered in Brooklyn, New York, HEVO also maintains Silicon Valley, California, and Amsterdam, Netherlands offices.

InductEV (formerly Momentum Wireless Power)

Founded in 2009 in Pennsylvania as Momentum Wireless Power, InductEV develops high-power wireless charging solutions for electric vehicles. Their magnetic induction systems allow all-weather charging for EV batteries with fully automatic operations. 

Their solution is designed to charge city buses, commercial vehicles, auto fleets, and industrial vehicles. 

Mojo Mobility, Inc.

Mojo Mobility of California was established in 2005 to develop wireless power transfer technology. They provide solutions for applications such as mobile charging, wearable technology, automotive infrastructure, electric vehicle charging, consumer, and other applications. 

The company works with different technologies, including position-free wireless charging technology, multi-device integration, wireless vs. cord charging, and safe charging technology.

WAVE, Inc.

Wireless Advanced Vehicle Electrification, or WAVE, Inc., develops and manufactures wireless charging systems for electric buses with a capacity of up to 250kW. 

WAVE’s Salt Lake City depot can charge multiple vehicles automatically without manual valet work and moving plug-in chargers. The company specializes in wireless power transfer, inductive power, and electric cars. They were acquired in 2021 by Ideanomics, Inc.

You Don’t Need to Spend a Lot on a Pricey Gaming Laptop

Any gaming laptop that costs thousands of dollars should be able to play the newest, most taxing games smoothly and consistently on high graphics settings. But you don’t need to shell out more than $1,500 to get a great laptop capable of playing your favorite games, and higher price tags do not guarantee better performance.

We’ve tested many gaming laptops in the past, and in 2023, we tested models costing up to $3,000, with the newest generation of Nvidia’s 40-series GPUs and Intel’s 13th-generation processors. Our findings have remained the same over the years: High-end gaming laptops packed with the most-powerful hardware still don’t offer enough performance benefits over more-affordable options. In some cases, they even perform worse.

Why we don’t recommend expensive gaming laptops

You can spend as much money on a high-end gaming laptop as you can on a used car. But you probably shouldn’t: Gaming laptops are not great long-term investments. Their graphics and processors typically can’t be upgraded. And as new video games come out, demanding higher system requirements all the time, the fixed hardware in your laptop will eventually fall behind.

Compared with budget options, expensive gaming laptops should have better processors and displays that produce higher-quality graphics and performance. They should also have better fans and cooling, nicer speakers, and a slimmer design. But powerful hardware requires, well, a lot of power. Power generates heat, and more power generates more heat. As a result, none of the expensive laptops we tested could keep their internal components or external surfaces from overheating. And many of them didn’t yield frame rates or graphics quality adequate enough to justify their high prices.

Our pick for the best cheap gaming laptop can play most of the newest titles at medium or higher settings, at 1080p resolution, with consistently high frame rates—and it normally costs just $1,000. In some tests, it actually outperformed the Razer Blade 15, which was the most expensive laptop we evaluated. For instance, when we ran Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy on ultra settings on both laptops, our budget pick maintained higher average frame rates than the Blade 15. It also stayed cooler than any of the more expensive models we tested.

This laptop has the newest generation of hardware, and it performs better than some of the most expensive models we tested. It maintains great frame rates for smooth gameplay, and it stays quiet and cool to the touch.

Why should you care about your laptop overheating?

When the internal components of a laptop generate too much heat, they can slow gaming performance and shorten the lifespan of the machine. And hot external surfaces can be more than just uncomfortable to the touch. They can also cause tissue damage (PDF) with prolonged contact, as well as erythema ab igne (EAI), a blotchy, chronic skin condition that in rare cases is associated with some cancers.

During our tests, we measure internal temperatures using HWMonitor Pro, and we record external temperatures using an infrared thermometer pointed at different surface points of the laptop. We automatically dismiss any laptop that exceeds the maximum temperature safe for skin contact or PC hardware. And we adhere to the following temperature limits, based on research published by NASA (PDF), the National Institute of Standards and Technology (PDF), and operating specifications from Intel, Nvidia, and AMD

Should you buy a gaming laptop?

A gaming laptop gives you the ability to play video games from anywhere on the planet. But, depending on your needs, it might not be the perfect solution: Even the slimmest gaming laptops aren’t as portable as we’d like, and they’re not well suited to productivity. Depending on your needs, a gaming laptop might also be impractical standing in as the only computer you own.

Compared with every other type of laptop we recommend, gaming laptops have bulkier designs. Most of the models we test are built with 15- or 16-inch displays, and they typically take up too much space to use in a standard airplane seat. We rarely see laptops in this category that weigh less than 4 pounds, and they also come with big, bulky chargers that can be cumbersome to lug around.

They’re also less ideal for productivity and casual use because they have awful battery lives. On average, our picks last roughly five hours on a single charge when used only for light tasks, like web browsing, and video games will drain the laptop more rapidly. You can also expect to see major frame rate drops, stuttering, and other performance issues when gaming on battery power.

If you want the best gaming experience, and you don’t need a computer you can travel with, you’re better off buying or building a gaming desktop. They’re more powerful than laptops at the same price, and they’re easier to upgrade down the line to meet the demands of newer and more-taxing games. But the ability to play games in any room of your house, on a trip, or when you’re killing time out in the world is compelling—as long as you’re not too far away from a power outlet. And this is why we recommend a cheap gaming laptop for most people.

Lithium-Ion Batteries with IP65 Ratings

As lithium-ion batteries become more popular, various standards and certifications are being created to ensure the safety of consumers. Each of these standards puts the batteries through rigorous testing to see if they will continue to operate optimally, even in rough conditions. Ingress Protection (IP) ratings were created to signal how well a device was protected against foreign bodies. Battle Born Batteries were exposed to various levels of testing and given an IP65 rating, showing that they are completely dust-proof and water-resistant.  

What Does Ingress Protection (IP) Mean?

Over the last 50 years, technological innovation has hit its stride. Everyday new research creates opportunities for new technology that quickly comes to market. With this rapid pace of advancement, consumers were struggling to keep up with safety specifications and requirements. Standards were then created and implemented to quickly signal to consumers which devices had passed the strictest quality and safety testing.  

In 1976, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) created the Ingress Protection (IP) rating system to “standardize how to classify electrical enclosures and mechanical casings against ingresses such as dust and water particles.” Before these standards were created, many electronic and mechanical devices were labeled as “waterproof” and “dustproof”. These terms quickly became ambiguous, and consumers were unknowingly exposing their devices to damaging and potentially dangerous conditions.

IP Ratings utilized international standards to create a sliding scale that would quickly convey exactly how “waterproof” and “dustproof” a device really was. The higher this two-digit rating is, the more protected a particular device is from foreign bodies. To determine which rating each device receives, they are subjected to a series of tests. Each test gets progressively more intense in the exposure the device has to certain foreign bodies.  

With the creation of IP Ratings, each electronic or mechanical device that receives a rating is exposed to the same exact testing conditions. This removed ambiguity and allowed consumers to deduce quickly and accurately just how “dustproof” and “waterproof” their devices are. Within the last few decades, IP Ratings have greatly increased manufacturer transparency, consumer safety, and overall piece of mind when adopting new technology.  

Breaking Down IP Standards

To measure the effectiveness of an electronic device’s sealing against moisture and other foreign objects, IP Standards were established with a two-digit rating. For each digit, the higher the number, the better protected the device is. If a device has an X in place of one of the digits in the IP rating, the enclosure has not been tested for that specification yet.  

First Digit – Intrusion Protection

In an IP rating, the first digit indicates the enclosure’s ability to protect against intrusion from solid foreign bodies. A hazardous situation can arise when dust, tools, fingers, or other objects come inContact with electrical components or circuitry.  This rating is determined on a scale from 0-6. The lower a rating is for intrusion protection, the more careful an individual needs to be when storing, using, or touching the device.  

Second Digit – Moisture Protection

In an IP Rating, the second digit is used to indicate that ability of the enclosure to protect against moisture. This rating is determined on a scale from 0-9. The higher the rating a device receives, the more moisture it can withstand without breaking the seal and impacting the internal electronic components. Testing for moisture protection ranges from subjecting the device to condensation or other water droplets all the way to full submersion.