The user-accessible screws on the new iPhone 3G might be an indication of user-changeable batteries. (although we highly doubt Apple would do that)

As previously noted, Apple’s new “guided tour” of the iPhone 3G demonstrates operation of the AppStore and a slew of already-detailed functionality. Closer inspection of the video has unveiled a few more revelations.

A look at the bottom of the new iPhone 3G during the video reveals new audio components on the bottom of the iPhone 3G. The left side grill is the speaker and the right hand side is the microphone. Apple purports “greatly enhanced” audio from the new hardware.

via iphoneatlas

It’s one thing to have an emergency kit that requires batteries and it’s another whole level if you got one that can be cranked for power.  The Crane Calamity Kit comes with a crank radio, crank flashlight, and crank indigo lantern so you can feel safe in emergencies.  We agree that every emergency kit should at least come with an option to crank power nowdays.

After many “dinner in the dark” experiences, C. Crane has the perfect solution for a power failure or other natural disaster that leaves you in the dark – the Calamity Kit! The three-piece kit includes our Indigo Lantern, Sherpa Flashlight, and EyeMax Weather Radio, and this kit is well suited for making dinner for the family and staying informed of any new weather events or other news in your area.

via coolest-gadgets

Well, after more than 20 years of electric golf carts, power luggage is here.  If you travel a lot and you carry a lot of crap with you, this might be the luggage to get.  It’s a good thing you can recharge the batteries simply by pushing it around.

The motors are powered by a rechargeable 12V NiMH battery which will run for about 2 hours on a single charge. It does come with a built-in charger, but it’s also able to use the wheels as a generator whenever the power assist isn’t required.

via ohgizmo

Like showering in the dark?

Continue reading ‘LED Shower Light for shower in the Dark!’

Here’s another cool lookin’ solar lawn mower!

Continue reading ‘DIY Solar Lawn Mower’

Griffin PowerDocks can power 2 iPhone/iPod devices at once.

What do I think?

I think it’s overpriced at about $50 and useless technology when I can simply use by USB cables to charge both of my iPhone and iPod Touches.

Then again, if you got money to burn, GET ONE!

Does your family own a family of iPod or iPhone models? Can you only find one charger when all of you need to recharge? Call a cease-fire with PowerDock, a charging base where every iPod and iPhone in the house can get together to charge its batteries.

via griffin

Don shows you how to build your own solar scooter.  What a nice guy, free detailed PDFs to explain everything.

Cool stuff!

Yes this is one! This is where you get to build your own solar powered scooter, it looks simple enough and in fact this scooter is actually street legal and will travel at least five miles on one charge.

The builder uses it regularly for work, which is five miles away, once at work he unfolds the solar wings which then charge up the batteries. Before you start shouting out “How can I build one?” there are full plans on the Build It Solar website, so I ask: “What’s stopping you?”
via keetsa

Wow, check out this plug and play electric motor system for your bike. Basically, you remove your front wheel and attach the Neodymics Cyclemotor system.

The only feature that should be improved upon? Well, I wish the batteries could be re-charged via the bike’s power when you are going downhill.

The Neodymics™ Cyclemotor is an integrated propulsion system designed for replacement of the front wheel on any standard bicycle. It contains batteries, motor, transmission, drive electronics, shock absorber, and control mechanism. Integrated design means simple installation. The “power on demand” control mechanism is fitted to the bicycle steering column on an arm extending down to the drive electronics. Attachment or removal of the self-contained and self-propelled wheel is then instantly accomplished without tools using a three point quick release system.

Neodymics patent pending design provides several advantages. The bicycle center of gravity is moved closer to the pavement for better handling than other motorized drives. The powertrain is dust shielded and water resistant. This design does not change the original aesthetics of the bicycle, and allows for quick removal of wheel for charging, security, or protection from the elements. The original drive train is not altered, so that pedal propulsion is always possible.

via wired

Here’s a cool hack on how to make a physical gmail notifier.  You could probably use any other type of LED RGB device too.

I was given a lovely glowing cube by the generous people at Linden Labs as a freebie at a job fair yesterday, and I decided that it was far too attractive to simply sit there on a shelf, pulsating forlornly until its batteries went flat. How about making it useful, while maintaining its visual appeal?

via hackszine

Remember my post on how to make a DC Welder powered by a golf cart? Well, these guys must be golfers and must own a golf course. (or at least work at a golf course.)

Now, they figured out a way to power their batteries with a big solar panel on top of the golf cart. Now the question is, can you still drive the golf cart? This might actually be a lot more practical if they could make the golf cart solar powered.

These panels charge the cart at about 3 amps. Welding or driving draws up to 150 amps, but only in short bursts.
To my surprise I have to disconnect the panel after a day or two to keep from overcharging the pack. I probably only charge one day a week. I better add an inverter so I can power my office and other tools from this thing.

Warning:
This thing is so damn cool you’ll smile too much and hurt your face.
I probably should have put the cover back over the batteries before he started welding, cuz batteries can make hydrogen which can go pop.
You’re smart kids, you can figure out other safety warnings for this thing.

via hacknmod