If your smartphone or tablet’s charge status indicator is running low on the road and you can’t see a recharging socket, you need a mobile power source. Powerbanks have meanwhile proven to be particularly popular with consumers. A Powerbank is a portable charger designed to charge electronic devices on the move.
The spectrum ranges from flat, pocket-sized devices to larger, high-capacity models. But what do you need to keep in mind when using Powerbanks? Where are the risks and simple methods to find the right product for your needs?
How do I determine my energy requirements?
The capacity available in a power bank is never the capacity that the end device reaches. To easily calculate how often a device can be charged on average with a Powerbank, the following rule of thumb can be used:
Capacity of the Powerbank (mAh) ÷ Battery capacity of the terminal × 0.7
For example:
An iPhone 7 with a battery capacity of 2,000 mAh can be charged 4 times on average with a power bank from the mid price segment with 12,000 mAh:
12.000 ÷ 2 000 × 0,7 = 4,2
The number of possible charging processes can vary due to different influencing factors:
- Normally the battery is not completely discharged (best ~20%) and is not fully charged (best ~80%).
- The capacity of the power bank (and the device to be charged) decreases slightly over time due to lithium-ion technology
- If the device is used during the charging process, the energy is consumed again at the same time
Which Powerbank is right for me?
Entry-level class
The models in the entry-level price range are relatively inexpensive, but may not deliver a full load. These Powerbanks are particularly suitable for young people with a small budget, who are constantly on the move and price-conscious and need a solution for emergencies.
This makes them ideal for a day trip – a product that fits the daily needs. As a rule, these handy and trendy energy dispensers have a capacity of up to 3,000 mAh.
Business Class
In the middle price segment it is already possible to charge more than one device in succession.
This makes them indispensable for smartphone and tablet users who travel frequently and want to be supplied with energy.
Mainly these Powerbanks offer a capacity of up to 10,000 mAh and are a user-friendly solution that is ideal for any type of travel.
Special Class
If you want to load more than one device at a time, you will find it in the upper price segment.
Powerbanks of this type often have a capacity of up to 20,000 mAh and are a must-have for people who are permanently on the move and use several devices that need to be powered daily.
How do I extend the life of my Powerbank?
DO’S
- Pay attention to the temperature
The Powerbank should not be charged at temperatures lower than 5°C and discharged at temperatures higher than 40°C. The Powerbank should not be charged at temperatures lower than 5°C and discharged at temperatures higher than 40°C. - Remove the charging cable as soon as the Powerbank is fully charged
This is also recommended when charging devices. - Load the Powerbank even if you don’t use it
To keep the Powerbank in good condition, it should be charged every 3 months at the latest. - Avoid fully charging the Powerbank
For the best performance and a longer lifetime it is recommended to charge the Powerbank up to a maximum of 80% and to discharge only up to 20%. Most Powerbanks have a charge indicator.
DON’TS
- Drop the Powerbank
Powerbanks contain a circuit board and other fragile components. A Powerbank should always be handled with care. Never throw or drop! - Exposing the Powerbank to extreme temperatures
Batteries prefer a temperature between 5 °C and 25 °C. The higher the deviation from the comfort zone, the greater the possible loss of capacity that can occur. This also includes covering the power bench with a blanket or clothing. - Store the Powerbank with metal objects together in your trouser pocket or bag
Always handle a power bank with care and ensure that no metallic objects at the terminals can cause a short circuit. - Charging the Powerbank and the device at the same time
When charging at the same time, high temperatures occur which affect the service life of the battery. On average, a Powerbank can be charged between 300 and 500 times.
Did you know?
It is not allowed to transport Powerbanks with lithium-ion batteries in checked baggage. They must be stowed in hand luggage and should not exceed 100 Wh.
Contrary to popular opinion, it is also not necessary to load and unload a Powerbank completely. It is always possible to load 10%, 20% or 30%. Partial charging can even extend the life of the built-in lithium-ion battery.
With the kind support of VARTA Consumer Batteries GmbH & Co. KGaA
Images: VARTA, Adobe Stock
