STACK #228 October 2023

TECH FEATURE

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Anker PowerHouse portable power stations are themselves powered by lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, which have six times the lifespan of standard lithium ion ones and are more efficient and better protected from overheating. LiFePO4 batteries can store more power using less space, and are commonly used in solar generators and back-up power systems. Battery LiFe

What they can charge When fully powered, the 535 (512WH) can charge a phone 40x, a camera 30x, a drone 10x, a laptop 8x, as well as a mini fridge for 10 hours, a TV for 3hrs+, and a lamp for 32hrs. It will also power a CPAP medical device for continuous use overnight. The smaller capacity 521 has you covered for a phone (20x+), laptop (4x), light (16hrs), and a fan (5hrs). What they can’t charge

Portable power stations are the perfect solution to keep your essential devices fully charged, over and over again, when you’re camping off the grid. Words Bec Summer P ortable power stations are exactly what it says on the box. These compact powerhouses enable you to charge a firing up a generator. For peace of mind that everyday devices like your phone and laptop STAYING IN CHARGE

Appliances that require more power – rated over 500W – are not supported by the 535; these include a coffee machine, microwave, hot plate, toaster and hair dryer. The 521 is only suitable for small to medium devices rated under 200W, and won’t power a CPAP machine. Ports aplenty Both the 521 and 535 have multiple charging ports and a smart LED display to check the capacity, estimated recharge time for connected devices, real time power input and output, and which ports are currently active. The 535 has seven ports – 1 x car outlet (120W), 1 x USB-C (60W), 3 x USB-A (with 12W max per port),

Anker 521 PowerHouse 256WH Portable Power Station

variety of electronic devices and appliances simultaneously – and multiple times – when camping or travelling in remote locations where an electricity supply is unavailable. And they eliminate the need to pack a clutter of assorted chargers and adapters. Ultra durable, drop proof and built for outdoor use, a portable power station is an ideal addition to a caravan or camper van, and can be easily packed in the car for a weekend getaway by the river. As a back-up power supply, they pack a lot more grunt than power banks and are more portable, convenient and economical than

won’t run dry while you’re taking a break

from civilisation, or you still want mod cons like a TV or a mini fridge in the caravan when you’re not

Anker 535 PowerHouse 512WH Portable Power Station

parked at a powered site, a portable power station is the way to go. Just don’t forget to fully charge it before you leave! What are the options available? The type of power bank you choose depends on how much power you’re going to need, and how many devices you intend to charge while away. The Anker 521 PowerHouse 256WH is ideal for weekend getaways and short trips and will deliver multiple charges for small to medium devices like phones and laptops, while the higher capacity Anker 535 PowerHouse 512W will give you more full charges for small devices, and can also power up larger appliances like a TV and mini fridge.

and 2 x AC outlets (500W shared) – while the 521 has five: 1 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A, 1 x AC (200W max) and 1 x car outlet. Power up and save USB-C fast charging enables the 535 to be charged to 80% capacity in under 2.5 hours, while the 521 can be fully charged in around four hours. Moreover, both are equipped with a set-and forget power saving mode that automatically turns off the power station once all the connected devices are fully charged. Power saving can also be switched off to enable stable charging for continuous use of devices like CPAP machines.

70 OCTOBER 2023

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