Having an alternative source of power available at hand is always a good idea, either in order to be ready at all times for just about any type of emergency situation, or for those moments when there's no other power source available at hand. And that's exactly the type of device we'll talk about as follows, namely the Weza Portable Energy Source, launched by the people over at Freeplay back in the second half of 2007, a device that employs the users' own steps in order to create power.



The Weza is a versatile, energy source providing totally dependable power for emergency situations and everyday use in remote applications. Unlike similar power packs, in emergency situations, or when power is not available, the Weza can be energized using only your legs by stepping on the innovative foot treadle.



Depending on input effort electrical energy is created at between 25 and 40 Watts. The Weza has been fitted with foldable stabilizer arms, making it easily portable and able to be stowed neatly, which makes quite a good solution for boats, motor homes and campers. The Weza features an internal rechargeable 12V, 7Ah lead acid battery capable of jump starting a range of vehicle engines, as well as powering a wide range of other devices. The Weza can also be fully charged from either an AC or DC source when available e.g. wall, car charger or solar (solar option not supplied) accepting 110V to 240V AC and DC from 13V to 21V.



The Weza is supplied with an 18V 1.5A AC/DC Adapter that can be plugged into a standard AC wall outlet. The internal battery can be recharged in approximately 8 hours. In addition, the Weza is supplied with a DC charging cable that enables charging from the cigarette lighter socket of a vehicle with a cigarette lighter socket. The Weza is carried in a sturdy nylon bag with a waterproof rubberized base, storage pouches and reflective strips allowing easy portability and safe storage of the Weza and accessories. Included in the bag is a pair of heavy-duty jumper cables and a small service tool kit allowing field maintenance of the Weza.



The device retails for around 270 US dollars, which is a relatively small sum to pay for a device that will provide the necessary power in just about any type of situation.