Questions about the handling of the Sakku solar bag

• How much can I bend the solar panel?
  The panel can be bent as long as it doesn’t kink. Kinks can damage the panel. Kinks can degrade the solar panel and may cause complete failure.
   
• Can the panel overheat?
  The panel can get very hot in direct sunlight, but will not be damaged. Tip: Don’t store ice in the bag.
   
• Is the solar panel sensitive to impact?
  No. Exception: Hits with sharp objects. Punctures to the solar panel can cause degradation or complete failure.
   

Technical questions

• What are the technical specifications for a sakku?
  - Solar panel max. voltage:                         19V
  - Solar panel operating voltage:                 15.4V
  - Maximale Stromstärke bei 15.4V:             200mA
  - Average capacity of a mobile battery:  ca.800mAh
  - Capacity of a sakku battery:                     1100mAh
   
  
• How long does it take to recharge a device?
  This depends on which device you are recharging. Directly recharging with sunlight takes an average of 2-3 hours. Recharging with the rechargeable battery option takes approximately 1 hour.
  
  
• How is the connection made between the solar panel and your recharging device?
  The recharging device will be connected with a 12V car adapter cable for cigarette lighters. The protection of your device is ensured with this.
  
  
• Why do I need a charge adapter?
  The adapter cable is needed to connect devices to the sakku. We advise using only the manufacturers’ original cigarette lighter adapter for each device. There are universal adapters on the market for connecting more then one device. However, we do not sell them, because the safety of your devises can not be guaranteed when using such adapters.
   
• Which adapters do I need for my mobile phone?
  The car lighter adapter that is recommended by your cell phone manufacturer is necessary to charge your cell phone.
   
• Can I connect all devices that I can normally recharge with a car adapter?
  Yes, as long as the devices don’t require more then 1100mAh. All devices like Black Berrys, Mobile phones, GPS and PDA's should have no problems.
   
• Can I use the same adapter cable in the car?
  Yes sure. Another advantage.
   
• Can I charge notebooks with this bag?
  No. The solar panels we are currently using do not generate the power required to recharge a notebook. We are working diligently to provide a laptop solution.
   
• Can I recharge my Digicam with the bag?
  Yes, if the manufacturerproduces an adapter and the batteries don’t require more then 1100 mAh.
   
• Will the bag recharge my device while I am walking through the city?
  Yes, if the bag is aligned with the sun. Optimal results are achieved by aligning the panel perpendicular to the sun. The best way to charge the rechargeable battery is to place the Sakku Akku in as much direct sunlight as possible, such as at street cafés or on a windowsill. It is possible to recharge it behind the window.
   
• Do I need a new adapter when I change my mobile phone?
  Only if the charging connection or the mobile phone has changed. Please check with the phone manufacturer for the proper lighter adapter.
   
• How much power does the solar panel deliver?
  The Sakku Traveller delivers a maximum power of 5 watts.
  The Sakku Worker delivers a maximum power of 2.5 watts.
  

• How I have to aligning the solar panel?
  The best is perpendicular to the sunlight.
  
  
• How long is the lifespan of a solar panel?
  Approx. 20 years.
  
  
• What is the lifespan of a rechargeable battery in the Sakku Akku?
  With care, a rechargeable battery will last a minimum of 3 years.
  
  
• Can I replace the rechargeable battery in a Sakku Akku?
  Yes the bag is built modular. Individual parts can be exchanged.
  
  
• Is it true that a solar panel requires more power to be manufactured than it gives off during its life cycle?
  No, this is an old myth. The solar panels today produce more power in around one to two years, than was required during the manufacturing process. With a life cycle of approximately 20 years, solar panels are highly sustainable.
  
  
• How long does a rechargeable battery retain its power after being charged?
  If it’s totally dark (no recharge of the battery) approx. 30 to 40 days.
  
  
• Can I also charge the battery in the Sakku Akku with diffused light?
  Yes, but charging power will be reduced to a level of 20 ~ 30%.
  
  
• Can I also recharge a the Sakku Akku from behind a window?
  Yes. Approx. figures of merit, is between 40 an 70% of the power from direct sunlight.
  
  
• Can I charge all devices with a Sakku Akku?
  No. We use 1100mAh power cells in our Sakku Akku-box. Most rechargers are manufactured for larger capacities, such as 1500mAh ~ 2500mAh. If the recharger is built for fast recharge the sakku cannot recharge them. These devices need a constant energy input, such as an outlet or a car battery. This type of power supply is not possible with our solar panels. Be aware of this point, and check that your recharger is only for 1100mAh batteries or smaller.
  
  
• Can I leave the rechargeable device connectd to a Sakku Akku over night?
  No. Because it can result in deep discharge. As soon as you have reloaded your battery the switch should be turned back in position “0”.