Solar Powered Nuvi

Solar Power Works for nuvi 350.

I wanted to start a new thread on a successful alternative for powering the nuvi.

I purchased a powermonkey explorer (http://www.powermonkey-explorer.com/) for an alternate power source that has a 3"x8" (when open) solar panel. This solar panel will directly operate the nuvi 350 in direct sunlight at ~5V 200mA. At about 5 feet from a window it still works but when pointed away or moved further into a room the "continue on battery power" will pop up. (the battery operates in my nuvi at ~3.7V and -195mA)

I took this unit on a bike ride yesterday attached to the handle bars and it stayed powered until I rode into a parking garage, then asked for battery power.

The battery pack will also power it storing 2200mAh. The monkey will work with the supplied USB tip when used with the suction cup attachment so the cord sticks out the back. To operate it from the side you will need to get the XDA attachment (special order).

specs: http://e-pack.asia-xl.com/pm-explorer/pdf/VS_pmonkey-eXplore...

I plan to use this setup since I will be traveling through Europe and not always be around a charging source during the day. It was a little expensive at $120 but has a $30 rebate until 3/31/08. (I think it's worth it since it will also power my cell, ipod and camera).

I created some City Tours with pictures and text descriptions to share that can be found through this thread http://www.poi-factory.com/node/11721

Thanks for everyone's input in "extending battery life for nuvi" http://www.poi-factory.com/node/11120

Just think:
Sunlight 8am-6pm, battery backup 6pm-8am