Pull-cord generator

[ponyboy]

Potenco designs human-powered pull-cord generators (PCGs) that can generate energy when and where you need it, providing freedom and independence from traditional power sources.

http://www.potenco.com/products

[hemlock77]

Looks like a good way for my kid to build a little character.

[StressMan79]

That won't run anything. Get a HF solar setup. I bought mine for 180 bucks and it makes 45W, comes with a couple of 5W lights, a charge controller. etc. and you won't have to wear yourself out starting a mower that won't turn over (the pull cord)

[panderson03]

180 bucks for 40W seems like a very good deal; better than what we've found, and we've been looking for a while. can you share where you found it? thanks!

[jbeall]

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=90599

HF = Harbor Freight. Around here, I think it gets referred to by it's initials more frequently than it's full name, which caused me no end of grief until I figured that out :-)

[StressMan79]

that is the kit I got. It usually goes for ~250, is on sale for 200 fairly often, and I signed up for the mailing, so I got a coupon for one @ 180.

I wish I could have gotten more, but I am too cheap to spend the extra (20$). I will wait till the next sale. and sign my wife up for the mailings too, so we get two coupons!

For the record, $4/watt is a good price to shoot for. I was very happy that these came with easy to use charge controllers (although basically for only one battery/array--not for much power, only 45W) and some low power light bulbs. included.