25 January 2013

QuickerTek launches CIGS-powered 62 Watt Solar Juicz charger for Apple devices

QuickerTek of Wichita, KS, USA, which provides power/solar products, antennas and RF products for Apple devices, has launched a 62 Watt version of its Solar Juicz solar power charger (e.g. for MacBook Pro, Retina display and MacBook Air).

By becoming the first solar product available for Apple devices that uses copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) technology (which has average solar energy conversion efficiency of 10.5-11%) the latest Solar Juicz model provides 1.5-2 times more power than more common thin-film flexible solar materials, QuickerTek claims.

As a direct result of using the new technology (as well as continual improvements), efficiency has improved by more than 39% over the previous Solar Juicz model. Higher wattage (62W vs 55W for the previous model) yields faster charge time (as little as 6 hours for both the 11- and 13-inch MacBook Air). Also, the laptop battery can be charged while using the Solar Juicz at the same time (not possible using other solar products, it is claimed). MacBook users can hence now spend more time working away from the wall power outlet. Even if the laptop battery is completely dead, the Solar Juicz charges and powers the MacBook laptop simultaneously.

QuickerTek says the solar panel is flexible, allowing easy transport and use. The new higher-efficiency solar charger packs more power in a smaller size: just 1534 square inches (40% more compact than the previous 2478 square inches). Weighing just 3.15 lbs, the lighter and flexbile solar panel also adapts to irregular surfaces better, providing an easy way to use the sun, regardless of the surroundings, the firm adds.

The 62W Solar Juicz comes ready to use, with either an Apple Magsafe 1 or Apple Magsafe 2 power cable, allowing users to power and charge a wide variety of Apple mobile devices. Solar Juicz also charges QuickerTek's line of Apple Juicz external battery products. In addition, QuickerTek makes custom cables for users wanting solar power for other devices, such as digital still and video cameras.

Compared with prior versions, the new 62W Solar Juicz also has a lower suggested retail price of $999, available from QuickerTek's worldwide dealer network. Like most QuickerTek products, it is backed with a one-year warranty on parts and labor.

Tags: CIGS

Visit: www.quickertek.com/products/solarJuicz.html