PolyFuel Discloses Prototype Notebook Computer Fuel Cell Power Supply
PolyFuel, Inc. announced that it has developed the first functional version of its prototype power supply for notebook-class computers that can provide continuous non-stop runtimes with the simple hot swap of small cartridges of methanol fuel. The consumer-friendly design has been fully integrated with a representative notebook – the Lenovo T40 ThinkPad®. PolyFuel developed the prototype as a technology demonstrator and proof of concept for OEM electronics manufacturers.
The prototype is said to represent a key step towards the attainment of PolyFuel’s goal to create a reference design with the size, appearance and performance consumers require for increasingly power-hungry notebook computers. PolyFuel will demonstrate this prototype to customers and potential development partners in the coming weeks. The company claims that earlier showings of a non-functional version of the prototype generated strong interest among the top tier electronics OEMs in the Pacific Rim, and that they are now "eager to see a functional prototype in action."
In PolyFuel’s prototype, the power supply features a detachable fuel cartridge – about the size of a deck of cards – that can be swapped out while the computer continues to run. Long-distance travelers, or others needing continuous, unconnected, easily portable power for their notebooks, would simply carry spare cartridges in their pocket or purse.
Jim Balcom, CEO of PolyFuel, commented, "Creating a functioning prototype is a critical step toward the development of a fuel cell reference design that can outperform lithium-ion batteries, and brings closer the achievement of our ultimate objective – the widespread commercialization of portable fuel cell technology."
