Selecting a suitable power bank for charging a Surface Pro 7
Selecting a suitable power bank for charging a Surface Pro 7
I often travel a lot and sometimes spend a day or two without access to power outlets, such as during trips to remote areas or camping. I'm searching for a power bank that can charge my MS SP7 when I'm not connected to an outlet. The power supply is rated at 65W, but I'm unsure how to calculate the required wattage. Should I simply use the 65W figure and multiply it by the number of charges I need, adjusting for any extra power needed?
I'm considering purchasing this product here: https://www.amazon.com/Halo-Portable-Lap...07FM85W13/ and expect it to provide at least one full charge. However, I want to make sure I'm on the right path when determining the appropriate wattage for charging the SP7. I understand that the USB-C port can offer a trickle charge but will take much longer than using a standard AC adapter.
Calculating battery power is actually quite intricate. It's not just about watts; it's about watt-hours as well. A bigger battery can deliver the same wattage for a longer duration. This adds another layer of difficulty since batteries are typically measured in amp hours, requiring conversion to watt-hours.
Essentially, you need to determine the battery's amp-hour capacity and its voltage. Then compare it with the specifications of a powerbank, checking both its amp-hour rating and voltage. Adjusting the voltage to match ensures compatibility. This process helps estimate how many times the powerbank can recharge your laptop.
I would look for a powerbank compatible with USB-C for fast charging your laptop. A dedicated USB-C to USB-C cable is usually necessary. Converting power to standard AC voltage and then back again would significantly reduce your battery's usable capacity.
Keep in mind there are restrictions on the size of battery banks you can carry on an airplane, typically capping at around 100 watt-hours.