WildCharger- Multi-Device Wireless Charger - FastSilicon.com

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WildCharger- Multi-Device Wireless Charger

Editor: Nigel Woodford

Author: Chris Hunter

Ever have a problem with multiple device chargers and cords splayed across the floor? One company has finally shown some innovation in the portable power market. WildCharge inc. has the world's only wireless charging system. The technology has garnered a spot on TIME Magazine's list of the best inventions of 2007. In addition, the gadget has won the International Consumer Electronics Show 2008 Best of Innovations Award in the portable power category. The device is called the "Wildcharger" and is capable of charging up to five devices simultaneously without any wired connections.

Now before the wet dreams pile up about devices charging in a pocket, the device still requires physical contact with a charging pad. The charging solution is based on a set of contact points that are on the surface of a device. The points are arranged in such a way that the portable device can be placed in any orientation on the pad and still establish a power connection. WildCharge claims that the charging rate is 100% the normal rate. The charging "station" can be acquired for $60.

Compatibility claims include everything from mp3 players, cell phones, and laptops. However, currently there is preliminary support for the RAZR brand cell phones. Adapting any current device will require a new back plate, which retails for $35 separately. The website advertises new device adapters coming soon for a whole host of gadgets. The portable assimilation process will soon include the majority of RIM Blackberry smart phones and Apple's popular offerings. The limited compatibility is standard for any new technology

The company's hope lies in the portable electronics industry standardizing their new power solutions. This is not a far-fetched idea. The advantages to companies would be tremendous and the environmental impact would be significant. Manufactures would simply replace the common "vampire electronics" of chargers and adapters with four metal contact points. Large amounts of electricity would be saved. Finally, one of the major issues present is what to do with all of the proprietary disposable charging components that are piling up. Almost every device carries with it the obligatory addition to the already cramped power strips of the world. Consumers would suddenly have the ability to carry the same charger from generation to generation of advancements. This consolidated platform would alleviate E-waste stress and save companies millions in recycling their haunting remains. Several companies already plan to implement the technique, which is promising.

The whole design does raise some issues at Fastsilicon.com.

Are there fail-safes for when liquid is spilled on the pad?
What happens over time as far as corrosion and foreign material accumulating on the pad?
Can common skin oils and salt interfere with the power connection on the powered device over time?
can anything else create closed circuit on the pad?
How can someone make a call or continue talking when a battery is not charged enough to support phone operation?

We will try to obtain one in order see what our tests reveal. We are very excited.

Addendum: we found a video from back in february of this year. Mytreo.net did an interview with the VP of Wildcharge and they demo the technology

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Cat (78.2.91.xxx) 2007-12-01 17:16:09

This is not wireless. By default, wireless is without contact. True, this device uses no wires, but does use contact pads. And carrying another plate adding depth and weight to the device? No, thanks. When someone makes a true wireless charger, then it will be a breaktrough. This is nothing but a toy. And a useless one too.

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I disagree

Thomas (68.97.59.xxx) 2007-12-01 18:37:51

If you are like me and purchase multiple devices constantly, this is a useful item that could save a lot of hassle with wires going everywhere. You obviously don't charge multiple things daily. I would love to combine 8 plugs into one standard that I don't have to fiddle with. just place my laptop at my desk and set my pda and phone down next to it. suddenly my life is lot less complicated when i just want to relax after getting home.

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I kind of agree

Bryce (12.218.84.xxx) 2008-03-25 05:23:00

This is awesome, but what they dont tell you is that whatever device you get, your gonna have to buy an adapter to put on it. This adapter has metal "contact" points, which run power into the device... when it gets to the point that you dont need that adapter, you can just throw your phone or ipod on the pad without an adapter... THEN ill invest in one.

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Copyright (C) 2007 Alain Georgette / Copyright (C) 2006 Frantisek Hliva. All rights reserved.