 |
|
Methanol Power? - IBM and Sanyo Double-Team the DMFCSanyo Electric Co. Ltd. and IBM Japan unveiled a prototype micro direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) system, attempting to overcome the deficiencies of fuel cells by combining a DMFC with a lithium-ion battery. The experimental model holds 130 cc of pure methanol, which combined with the lithium-ion battery, cranks out up to 72 watts (16 V DC) for as many as eight hours.Fuel cells are typically heralded for their performance, but they tend to be missing storage capabilities. The IBM-Sony DMFC prototype represents an attempt to marry the performance of a fuel cell with the storage of a lithium-ion battery. The end result may not be just a replacement for today's battery packs. The manufacturers hope to make the notebook AC adapter a relic of the twentieth century by completely removing the need for laptop power cords. They estimate the launch date for this revolution to be 2007. In the meantime, they have some obstacles to overcome. Everyday use of direct methanol fuel cells is not yet practical because of international rules and regulations, such as those that limit the transport of methanol on airplanes. From a design standpoint, the prototype is relatively clunky as well. It's a 4.8 pound (2.2 kg) docking bay that measures nearly 1 foot long on either side and 2 inches high (270 mm x 282 mm x 16 to 54 mm). Sanyo intends to eventually recommend its DMFC as a standard power system for other laptop makers. IBM, and then the China-based Lenovo Group Ltd., plans to use the hybrid fuel cells in future ThinkPad notebooks. By Matthew Brodsky Wednesday, April 20, 2005 |
- Laptopical - Apple Laptops - Acer Laptops - Cheap Laptops - Dell Laptops - HP Compaq Laptops - Fujitsu Laptops - Laptop Reviews - IBM Laptops - Toshiba Laptops - Sony Vaio Laptops - About us - Site map |