Neah Power Systems

Technology
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	Prototype

Prototype

Big Energy, Small Package

Neah Power Systems is developing a prototype to power a notebook computer. As described in the Power Gap section, this is expected to provide all-day computing for an ultra-light notebook PC, which typically requires about 120 Watt-hours (Whrs) of energy for 8 hours of operation. This fuel cell system is designed to be flexible and can be modified to fit into many different form-factor configurations. Below is an example of Neah Power’’s fuel cell prototype and its major components.

Easy-to-Use Continuous Power

Rather than plugging in and waiting for a recharge, Neah Power’’s fuel cell can be instantly “recharged” by simply replenishing the fuel cartridge. See below for an illustration of how this is expected to work:

Military Example

Neah Power’’s fuel cell systems have the potential to be small, lightweight, and durable, characteristics that are ideal for portable and remote military applications. The military uses large quantities of portable batteries today, mostly in the form of the BA-5590 model that powers communications gear and other portable applications. According to a recent Smith Barney research report, the U.S. Marines used approximately 3,000 batteries per day during the first two weeks of Operation Iraqi Freedom, implying a usage rate of over 4 million units per year for the military overall. In addition, the BA-5590 battery currently used by the military is heavy, weighing almost 2.5 lbs each. Fully developed, Neah Power’’s fuel cell technology potentially can decrease the weight soldiers have to carry related to portable power by up to 65 percent over a 72-hour mission, which can enhance fighting effectiveness.