Solar power is becoming an increasingly important source of energy, as it can provide clean, cost-free battery power for a very high number of portable devices. This is the reason why the people from Brando have launched in June 2007 the Universal Solar Charger, a device that uses the power of the Sun in order to provide extra-functioning life for a wide range of handhelds, from mobile phones to USB-powered music players, GPS navigators, etc.



Obviously, the device from Brando has been fitted with a solar panel, which can attain a peak power of 1.54W, has an operating voltage of 5.5V (Max) and generates a charging current of 280mA (Max) / 3.8V. It also incorporates a charging unit that features a built-in 2500mAh / 3.8V rechargeable battery with an output voltage of 4.5V-9V (adjustable), an output current of 1A (Max) and an output power of 4W (Max).



Quite obviously, since the USB Solar Charger is designed to provide power for various portable devices, which are generally quite expensive, it requires a few protection systems. The device from Brando incorporates over-charge, over current and high temperature protection systems, as well as an anti-discharge system and a double short-circuit protection system.



The device is manufactured out of fireproof plastic (ABS), so it can withstand the action of the elements. Moreover, it sports a 3-colored indicator (red, orange and green) which shows the status of remaining power, while charging and discharging respectively, as well as a LED flash light and an output voltage switch for 4.5V / 5V / 6.3V / 9V.



The USB Solar Charger retails for around 70 US dollars, which is not that high a price, considering the fact that this thing is capable of charging a very wide range of portable devices.