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During CES 2022, a new company called PWRBOARD released their first product: an interesting modular battery charger for content creators. This board solves a problem we all have: charge multiple types of batteries simultaneously, at the same place, without dealing with the cable mess/powering issues created by numerous chargers from different brands. So let’s take a closer look at this innovation that will be launched later this year!
After a year of “virtual announcements,” Las Vegas’ famous tech and innovation tradeshow CES is back on track like nothing happened. This event is fantastic to discover new products and concepts from small companies and startups.
To make content creators’ lives easier, American company PWRBOARD launched their first product – also called the PWRBOARD – a new take at camera batteries charger.
What’s the problem?
Versatile and multi-channel camera battery chargers are not something new, like the SWIT LC-D421 that I reviewed here. However, the main drawback of these chargers is that, due to size limitations, you can’t charge a drone, action camera, or even regular AA/AAA batteries on them, to list a few. So, you need a separate charger for all these specific batteries that usually come with the device you buy.
If you’re like me and you’re tired of searching for your batteries chargers, chances are you probably set up a small “battery management station” on a desk at your home or office. This is a place with all your different chargers, they stay here forever, and when you come back from your shoot, you can throw all your cells in their dedicated charger for some fresh juice, ready for the next gig.
If you want something that looks more professional and without tons of power cables all over the place, Tom Barnes from DIY Photography created a tutorial to build a nice-looking and tidy charging station. However, if you don’t feel like making it yourself, American startup PWRBARD pushed this concept one step further with their charging station.
PWRBOARD features
The PWRBOARD consists of a base that will be available in two standard sizes: 16,5″/23 x 35cm or 23″/33 x 50cm. Also, if it’s still too small for you, the company can build a custom base at your dimensions.
The base is connected to wall power via an IEC cable, and electricity flows through the power grid. On the right side of the board, you also have a couple of built-in USB-C and USB-A ports to charge additional gear.
Then, you attach battery modules to the board using their own custom quick-release fasteners. It looks like you can put as many modules as you want on one board, as long as you have free space on the base.
Each module features a dedicated charging indicator. According to the company, more than 30 modules will be available at launch for popular DSLR/mirrorless cameras, action cameras, drones, and peripherals. To list a few, you’ll have modules for Canon LP-E6, Sony NP-FZ100, Sony NP-F, Nikon EN-EL, Panasonic DMW-BL, V-Mount batteries, and so on.
Furthermore, don’t worry if you don’t find the module for your camera or specific gear. You’ll be able to download the company’s open-source module development kit to build your custom modules. That’s smart.
Price and availability
At the moment, there is no information about the price or availability of the PWRBOARD. The company will launch a crowdfunding campaign later this year on Kickstarter.
For more information, please visit PWRBOARD’s website here.
What do you think about this new charging station for content creators? Do you think it could be a helpful addition to your kit? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments down below!
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