HCL Infosystems has designed the prototype of an external gadget that can be charged through pedalling and connects to a personal computer to run it under the most difficult of power situations in the country.

The product is currently under testing at HCL's facility in Pondicherry.

"We have experimented with pedal power wherein a car battery can be attached to a special cycle, and people can bike away to charge the battery. This system, attached to a power management system called RP2, can help run a PC. It is still at an experimental stage. The prototype has been developed, but it will take a couple of months to be tested," HCL Infosystems' Chairman and CEO, Mr Ajai Chowdhry, said here.

While the concept is interesting, the success of the product hinges on crucial issues such as the time taken to charge the battery via pedalling, number of hours that PC can be used thereafter, and the price. An HCL spokesperson said that these details would emerge only after the testing phase was completed.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/07/29/stories/2005072902600100.htm

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