Valence Technology Inc. offers the N-Charge Power System, a universal battery that you can hook up to your PowerBook, iBook, PDA or cell phone for hours of extra juice after your internal battery runs out. Now the company has introduced its second generation N-Charge system, which it says can provide up to twice the juice using a modular design.
The base system offers up to five hours of additional energy for notebooks, according to the manufacturer, which did not specify the battery’s actual charge capacity. A snap-on “Expansion Pack” doubles the energy capacity. The device connects to the AC adapter connector of your laptop rather than working as a replacement internal battery, and can be fit with different connectors for compatibility with different computers or portable devices.
The new N-Charge uses Saphion Lithium-ion battery technology, like its predecessor, though it eschews the large, flat black form-factor for a smaller, more square design.
The new N-Charge is expected to go on sale this April with a suggested retail price of US$199.99. The expansion pack will cost $169.99.