Pocket PC Techs Releases New Axim X3 'Lil Sync Cable and Battery Charger

[Jason Dunn]

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.pocketpctechs.com/default.asp?REFERER=PPCTHTS' target='_blank'>http://www.pocketpctechs.com/defaul...REFERER=PPCTHTS</a><br /><br /></div>Pocket PC Techs has released a few new pieces of hardware that just might be what you've been looking for. First, they've released a 'Lil Sync cable for the Dell Axim X3, which are cables that synchronize and charge your Pocket PC at the same time. These cables are great for travelling, and equally useful if you don't want the clutter of a cradle on your desk. This USB battery recharger looks quite interesting:<br /><br /><img src="http://www.pocketpcthoughts.com/images/web/2003/usb-batadpt01l.jpg" /> <br /><br />"Use with the Lil' Sync Retractable USB Sync-n-Charge cable to charge your unit using 4 AA batteries. One of the dangers in using 4 AA batteries with a 5V device is that different types of AA batteries give off different voltages. 4 Lithium AA batteries can give off almost 7 Volts which could damage some 5V systems. We've eliminated this danger by designing a Voltage Reduction Circuit (VRC) with a selectable switch. Select the type of battery your using and you're set. Once the Alk position no longer charges your unit, switch to the NiCd to drain the last usable portion of the batteries."<br /><br />Remember to use the coupon code THOUGHTS to save 10% off! [Affiliate]

[garrans]

I wonder why they didn't just use a Voltage Regulator chip rather than circuitry, this would have removed the need for a switch ?

Still looks like a good product.... but way long ago in the early history of PPCT there was a link to a site about building your own one of these.

[stevey500]

I bought one of these a few months ago on ebay, it looks exactly the same but without the sticker and the usp port. it had an original dc out cable for my e740

[Jon Westfall]

I've recently become a critic of voltage regulation chips. My old XDA charger is actually dis-charging my XDA II because the XDA II requires different voltage and the XDA Charger is limiting it. The "dumb" chargers I have (without chips) are charging the new PDA just fine - its the two "smart" chargers that have been giving me grief!

[LWesson]

I bought one of these a few months ago on ebay, it looks exactly the same but without the sticker and the usp port. it had an original dc out cable for my e740
yes, it is similar but in yours there is no protection against too high a voltage.

we opted for a simple circuit since it is easily implemented and can be bypassed, so you lose none of the batteries charging ability.

[GoldKey]

I've recently become a critic of voltage regulation chips. My old XDA charger is actually dis-charging my XDA II because the XDA II requires different voltage and the XDA Charger is limiting it. The "dumb" chargers I have (without chips) are charging the new PDA just fine - its the two "smart" chargers that have been giving me grief!

I have the same problem with one of the chargers I have. As soon as the batteries get below a certain level, the charger starts to discharge the PDA rather quickly.