Socket's Mobile Power Pack

So what was the solution?

Easy! The Socket Mobile Power Pack! Without question this power solution has dramatically changed how I use my devices. No longer do I have to worry about obtaining a charge because with this charger, I can do it anywhere and most importantly, easily!

As soon as I finished the phone call, I took the charger from my bag, attached a USB cable from the charger to my K-JAM, placed it back in my bag and quickly drove to where I was going. Arriving, I just grabbed my bag and went in. For the next half hour we chatted, exchanged pleasantries, and began the discussion on what I needed for a program and all the while, my K-Jam was being charged in my bag --- neat! When it was time for me to get my notes from my device, I simply unplugged the charger and was able to get and do what I needed. There was more than enough charge to carry me through my meeting – whew! If I needed to, I could have kept the charger attached and easily used the device but it was not necessary.

I have had several “near misses” so to speak and the Mobile Power Pack has been a lifesaver. It has allowed me to “push the envelope” on my devices because I know that I have immediate access to power whenever I need it.

What is this device?

The Socket Mobile Power Pack is a hi-capacity, rechargeable lithium-ion battery that allows you to supply power to your devices to either charge them if they are low on power or to supplement existing power to maintain a full charge. More importantly, this device eliminates the need to carry multiple power adapters while you are on the go. It is very lightweight solution (11 oz) and can easily be clipped onto your belt for easy charging while on the go.

How does it work?

The Socket Mobile Power Pack, which uses a USB charging port to supply power to your device, is made for recharging devices equipped with a 5-9 volt DC input. The default charge is for devices that use 5 volts DC but they have included a 6 V booster for you to use if you have a device that uses 6 V DC. You can purchase a 9V booster if you have a device that requires the higher voltage. The only thing you have to do is attach a USB charging cable that is designed for your device and VOILA, you get an instant power supply for your device.

What comes with the Mobile Power Pack?

Opening the box, along with the battery, you find an array of accessories to use with the Mobile Power Pack. The battery is protected with a nice leather sleeve that uses a Velcro fastener for the flap and has a sturdy clip for attaching to your belt. Although the battery only weighs 11 oz, I found this feature nice for allowing you to “balance” what you carry. It is nice not to have to use pockets.

Of course there was an A/C adapter but it had a neat design that is important for those that do international travel. With interchangeable “prongs” on the electrical outlet end, you can charge your Power Pack in the USA, Europe, UK and Australia.

A nice zippered travel pouch to help to keep all the adapters together is included. The adapters that were included were a 2.5 mm and a 3.5 mm barrel connector/adapter to USB, and a 4.0 mm Barrel connector/Cable to USB. There was a Palm charging cable and an Apple iPod charging cable that is for the newer mini iPod, iPod Shuffle and iPod Video. In addition there was a 6 volt Booster and a retractable USB cable.

It was a pretty decent set of accessories to charge many different devices. Of course, if you need a specific attachment for your device, it is pretty simple to obtain one from an online retailer. All in all, there are sufficient attachments to get just about everyone up and running. Interestingly enough, I had a set of adapters that I have kept for various phones I have had over the years…they now have a home in that pouch.

How long does it take to charge the Mobile Power Pack?

The initial charge took several hours (specifications indicate 7 hours). I plugged it in before I went to bed and it was ready in the morning. Clearly, future charges depend upon the depletion of the battery. I just plug it in, leave it and come back when I need it.

The Socket Mobile Power Pack can be connected indefinitely to the charger without doing any damage. If the charger is not being used, it is a good idea to keep the charger plugged in to maintain a full charge when needed. The specifications indicate that the Li-ion batteries will last for more than 500 recharge cycles before losing even 15% of their initial capacity --- that is impressive.