Portable Power Systems

Small back up power systems like those shown below can provide power for a short time for small appliances, lights, fans, and cell phones, in the event of a power outage. A basic backup power system must have at least a battery and an inverter if you plan to run a regular AC product. The Xantrex PowerPack units contain both a battery and an inverter and are a great introduction to backup power applications. For a complete system, which also allows you to independently charge the battery, you may want to have your own a charging source like a solar electric panel. A battery based system powered by solar power is a much quieter alternative to a noisy generator. Ideally you can charge the battery with the solar panel during the day, and then plug appliances directly into the inverter or into a cigarette lighter adapter from the inverter. Some solar modules have special adapters that allow them to work easily with portable inverters.