Problem: A language worker needs to run Paratext and other translation software in his home village where there is no AC power available. We want a low-profile minimal system.
Solution
: Use two or three Solartec solar panels connected to the Half-Pint Power Bank and a Lenovo Tablet 2 10-inch Windows tablet with Bluetooth keyboard. Permanently mount the panels on roof, with the Half-Pint indoors, and keep the tablet plugged into the Half-Pint whenever practical.
Parts needed:
1 ea – Half-Pint Power Bank
2 or 3 ea – Solartec 15w panels
2 or 3 ea – Mounting brackets for Solartec
1 ea – Custom cable assembly
1 ea – Lenovo Tablet 2 Windows version
Optional:
1 ea – stand-alone desk lamp
1 ea – External Bluetooth Keyboard & Mouse (the Tablet 2 has NO USB ports)
The Lenovo “Tablet 2” ten inch tablet runs MS Windows 10 and any normal Windows applications, including Paratext. The 10-inch diagonal screen is small, but high resolution (1920 x 1200), so very usable if you’ve got good eyes.
The internal battery on the tablet is 32 Wh, and the manufacturer claims up to 15 hours run time. Assuming 12 hours run time is more likely, you can still work an 8-hour day on this tablet using only 21 Wh. Since the fully charged Half-Pint holds 72 Wh, you’ve got a couple days reserve for cloudy weather and can charge other small devices like lights, cell phones or even a BGAN unit.
Since the Tablet doesn’t have a USB port to power a LED work light, we’d recommend a small solar powered desk lamp like the one we sell to light up your work desk after dusk. You may also desire a better keyboard than the one included, Bluetooth is your only connection option. Likewise a Bluetooth mouse might be more convenient than the touchscreen for some programs.
Two 15 W Solartec panels will provide an average of over 120 Wh per day, but you need the “extra” power because some days have a lot less sun than “average” and that will let you keep running during weeks with many partly cloudy/overcast days. A third panel would only be needed if you’re charging other equipment or lights using the Half-Pint.