BACKUP BATTERIES AND POWER BANKS

BACKUP BATTERIES AND POWER BANKS are essential tools for pilots, aviation professionals, and aviation enthusiasts who require reliable power sources to keep devices functioning during long flights, while traveling, or when out in remote locations. These portable power solutions ensure that electronics such as communication devices, navigation equipment, tablets, and smartphones can stay powered up without relying on the aircraft’s electrical system.

1. Backup Batteries for Aviation:

Backup batteries are compact power sources designed to provide extra charge for aviation-related devices, such as GPS units, radios, and personal electronics. These batteries are particularly useful when you’re away from an electrical outlet or need emergency power during flight.

Types of Backup Batteries:

  • Portable Power Packs (Rechargeable Batteries):
  • Purpose: These are standalone, rechargeable batteries that can be charged before a flight and used as a backup power source during the flight. They are typically lightweight and compact.
  • Features: Often include multiple USB ports for charging devices such as smartphones, tablets, or radios.
  • Examples:
    • Anker PowerCore Series: Known for their reliable performance and multiple charging ports.
    • RAVPower Backup Battery: A highly rated brand for compact, high-capacity battery packs ideal for aviation applications.
  • Emergency Jump Starter Batteries:
  • Purpose: While these are more commonly used for vehicles, emergency jump starters can also serve as a backup power supply for electronics in the cockpit or during prolonged ground operations.
  • Features: These devices usually have a high-capacity battery and come with jumper cables to start a dead car battery. Some models also have USB ports for powering devices.
  • Example: NOCO Boost: Compact, lightweight jump starter packs with USB charging capabilities.
  • AA or AAA Rechargeable Batteries (for Aviation Devices):
  • Purpose: These are rechargeable batteries used in handheld radios, GPS units, or other small aviation electronics that are designed to run on standard AA or AAA batteries.
  • Example: Eneloop Pro AA/AAA rechargeable batteries, which are known for their long life and reliability.

2. Power Banks for Aviation:

Power banks are larger, high-capacity devices designed to recharge multiple devices on the go. For pilots and aviation professionals, power banks are a vital accessory to ensure devices like navigation systems, communication radios, and personal electronics remain functional during extended periods without access to a power source.

Types of Power Banks:

  • High-Capacity Power Banks:
  • Purpose: Power banks with a large capacity (measured in mAh—milliampere-hour) are designed to charge devices multiple times. They are especially useful for long flights or when you’re away from charging outlets for an extended period.
  • Features: These power banks often include multiple USB ports and fast-charging technology, enabling simultaneous charging of several devices.
  • Examples:
    • Anker PowerCore 20100: A popular high-capacity power bank, offering enough power to charge devices multiple times.
    • RAVPower 26800mAh Power Bank: Offers multiple output ports and a high capacity for extended usage.
  • Solar-Powered Power Banks:
  • Purpose: Solar-powered power banks can be charged via sunlight, making them ideal for outdoor or remote aviation applications where access to an electrical outlet is unavailable.
  • Features: These power banks are often rugged, weather-resistant, and capable of storing energy during the day to power devices at night.
  • Examples:
    • BigBlue 28W Solar Charger: This solar power bank can charge electronics directly from sunlight, making it ideal for extended trips or outdoor aviation activities.
    • Goal Zero Sherpa 100AC: A compact solar power bank that can be charged via solar panel or AC outlet, featuring both AC and USB outputs.
  • Multi-Device Power Banks:
  • Purpose: Designed to charge multiple devices at once, these power banks are perfect for pilots and aviation enthusiasts who need to keep a tablet, smartphone, and handheld radio powered simultaneously.
  • Features: Equipped with several USB ports and, in some cases, AC or DC outputs for charging devices like laptops or radios.
  • Example: Zendure A8PD: A rugged, high-capacity power bank capable of charging four devices at once.
  • Laptop Power Banks:
  • Purpose: Some pilots rely on laptops for flight planning, charts, and other tasks. A laptop power bank can provide the necessary charge to keep your laptop running during long flights or extended periods without access to an outlet.
  • Features: Typically come with higher capacity and AC power outputs for charging laptops and other high-power devices.
  • Example: MAXOAK 50000mAh Power Bank: A powerful power bank specifically designed for charging laptops and other devices with high power needs.

3. Key Features to Consider for Aviation-Related Power Banks and Backup Batteries:

  • Capacity (mAh): The higher the mAh rating, the more power the device can store, which directly impacts how many times it can charge your devices. A 10,000 mAh power bank might charge a smartphone fully 2-3 times, while a 20,000 mAh or larger power bank can handle multiple charges for several devices.
  • Portability: Given the limited space in an aircraft, it’s important to choose a power bank or backup battery that is lightweight and compact. However, you want to balance size with capacity to ensure you have enough power for your needs.
  • Charging Speed: Look for power banks and backup batteries with Quick Charge or Power Delivery (PD) technology, which allows for faster recharging of devices. This feature is especially useful when you’re on the go or need to quickly charge a device before a flight.
  • Multiple Output Ports: Ensure the power bank has multiple USB or DC output ports, so you can charge multiple devices at the same time (e.g., smartphone, tablet, GPS, and radio).
  • Durability: Opt for rugged, weather-resistant models, especially if you’re flying in challenging environments. Some models are designed to be shockproof, waterproof, or resistant to extreme temperatures.
  • Solar Charging Capability: For long flights, remote locations, or outdoor aviation activities, solar-powered power banks are incredibly useful, providing a sustainable energy source when conventional power is unavailable.
  • Weight: When flying, especially in small aircraft, the weight of the equipment matters. Make sure the power bank or backup battery is light enough for easy portability without compromising on its capacity.

4. Popular Brands for Aviation Backup Batteries and Power Banks:

  • Anker: Known for high-quality, reliable power banks with excellent capacity and multiple charging ports.
  • RAVPower: Offers affordable, high-capacity power banks with fast-charging capabilities and multi-device support.
  • Zendure: A premium brand with rugged power banks designed for high-performance and outdoor use.
  • Goal Zero: Specializes in solar-powered chargers and power banks, ideal for off-the-grid aviation or outdoor adventures.
  • MAXOAK: Offers large-capacity power banks, particularly useful for charging laptops and high-demand electronics.
  • Mophie: Offers compact, high-capacity power banks and charging cases for smartphones and tablets.

Conclusion:

Backup batteries and power banks are essential for pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and aviation professionals who rely on electronic devices during flights. Whether you’re using a power bank to keep a tablet or smartphone charged, using a solar-powered option during long outdoor trips, or needing a backup battery to power communication or navigation devices, selecting the right power solution is crucial. Look for models with high capacity, fast charging, and durability to ensure reliable performance during your aviation activities.

Scroll to Top