Digital Home Thoughts: Technocel's PowerPak: Universal Charger and Battery Pack

"This ultimate universal charging solution combines a backup rechargeable battery pack with a rapid home charger. Providing the extra juice when you need it, the PowerPakTM will recharge your handheld device at the same time as it recharges itself via the wall outlet. If you're a frequent or long talker who constantly runs out of battery in the middle of the conversation, the PowerPak was designed for you, providing up to 3 hours of extra talk time."

This may be the ultimate accessory for the road warrior, allowing you to leave both your device charger(s) and extra batteries at home in exchange for a single unit. Although not inexpensive at around $50 MSRP (US), the PowerPak ships with a number of interchangeable tips that promise "compatibility for 95% of all handheld USB devices," with replacement tips available individually, and has 4-LED display that provides an estimate of its own charge status. The PowerPak contains a 1000 mAh rechargeable battery and a single USB port, and is also sold as the "Universal PowerPak." If you require more reserve battery power, Technocel has announced the PowerPak XT, with a 1600 mAh lithium ion battery, as well as the PowerPak DUO, which features a 2000 mAh battery along with dual USB ports (both of these newer products are still "coming soon").