Mobile Computing, Laptops and Batteries

Media and Methods, Sep/Oct 2005 by McConnell, Peggi

Perhaps your school district already enjoys the freedom and benefits of wireless laptop computing and mobile computer labs. Many teachers and students have embraced mobile computing. Maybe you have also faced the great pitfall in laptop computing . . . the battery life.

Your laptop batteries that at one point powered your computers all day, now only last for 1-2 classes. How can you provide computer access to all your students when your batteries are dead or dying? The answer? Buy more batteries? Even if you have the budget to replace your batteries, you will be forced to face this same dilemma again.

Traditional laptop batteries are made from a material called Lithium-ion, which deteriorates rapidly with use over time. Laptop manufacturers use this material because it is lightweight. It keeps laptops portable and more attractive. This battery technology does not really benefit the classroom user.

That is why, Earth Walk is releasing its new revolutionary, universal battery solution for the classroom. It is called SideKick and eCharger. SideKick is an external 10 Amphour battery, (120 WATTS) that works with most brands of laptops. SideKick can provide 4-5 years of all-day power. That is 2-3 times the operational life or charging cycles of conventional laptop batteries! The eCharger simultaneously conditions and recharges 16 SideKick batteries from one standard wall outlet. It can easily roll to where the battery power is needed.

In 1999, Earth Walk pioneered the world's first mobile computer lab and over the last seven years has deployed thousands of mobile lab solutions worldwide. Power management and battery charging technologies have always been a primary focus in the products Earth Walk has developed. The new SideKick and eCharger offers schools the most efficient and cost effective battery solution available.

Peggi McConnell is the marketing manager for EarthWalk Communications. 888/213-4900. www.earthwalk.com