Callpod Fueltank Duo Review

Running out of power on your PDA or other favorite electronic device can be a problem while traveling, especially if one of those devices contains critical information that you need to access. Since it's not always possible to find (and stay near) an outlet while traveling, portable power options can be quite useful.

Callpod's Fueltank Duo lets you simultaneously charge two small electronic devices without being tethered to an outlet. The Fueltank Duo has a rechargeable lithium ion battery and uses device-specific adapters, giving you the power to customize the Fueltank Duo to suit your devices.

There are plenty of different device adapters available, so you should be able to find adapters for your PDA as well as other favorite small electronics. Callpod offers adapters for iPods, cell phones, Bluetooth headsets, PDAs, digital cameras, navigation units, mp3 players, digital readers, and portable gaming systems.

Because the Fueltank Duo uses proprietary voltage regulator technology, you can be assured the correct amount of power is being used to recharge your devices. When charging a device, a blue LED indicator near the connector illuminates. When preparing for a trip, you can check the battery level of the Fueltank Duo itself to make sure it's fully charged by pressing the indicator button.

Callpod claims you can charge your devices multiple times without refueling the Fueltank Duo. Although experiences are sure to vary depending on the types of devices and batteries you are charging, I was able to charge my PDA, cell phone, and other devices multiple times between charging the Fueltank Duo.

Traveling with multiple chargers and tangled cords is never an enjoyable experience. I like that the Fueltank Duo helps me eliminate some of these unnecessary cords and travel a bit lighter. I also appreciate the fact that the Fueltank Duo is lightweight (it weighs less than 8 ounces). For convenience, the Fueltank Duo, its charger, and multiple adapters fit in the included case. This case isn't anything special to write home about—it's just a simple pouch—but it does the job and kept everything organized while I was traveling.

Although I'm not likely to give up dedicated wall chargers while I'm home, the Fueltank Duo provides a great option for keeping my devices powered up while traveling and helps to eliminate cables and chargers that would otherwise become a tangled mess in my bag.

At the time of this writing, the Fueltank Duo cost $69.95. It comes with the Fueltank Duo base unit, an AC/DC Wall Plug, Mini-USB adapter, carrying pouch, and a voucher for a free adapter through Callpod.com. Additional adapters are $9.95 each.