Pocket juice, also known as a power bank, is a portable charger designed to recharge your devices when you’re on the go. With the right tips, pocket juice can be an incredibly useful gadget to keep your devices powered up at all times.
What is pocket juice?
Pocket juice, or portable chargers, are battery packs that can be charged up and then used to charge your other devices when you don’t have access to an electrical outlet. They come in all shapes and sizes with different charging capacities. Pocket juice typically contains one or more lithium-ion batteries along with the circuitry required for charging.
The main benefit of using a pocket juice is the ability to charge your devices even when a power outlet isn’t available. This makes them ideal for traveling, camping, or any situation where you’ll be away from electrical outlets for an extended period.
How does pocket juice work?
A pocket juice contains a lithium-ion battery that is charged through an AC adapter or USB cable connected to a power source like a laptop or wall adapter. Once fully charged, the battery stores power like a regular rechargeable battery.
To use a pocket juice, you simply connect it to your device’s charging port using a USB cable. The pocket juice will then transfer its stored power to your device, charging it up. Most pocket juice packs have an LED indicator that shows how much charge they have left.
When you aren’t using your pocket juice, make sure to recharge it fully so it’s ready for your next use. With proper care and recharging, a quality pocket juice can be reused hundreds of times.
Choosing the right pocket juice
With so many options on the market, it can be tough to decide which pocket juice is right for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider when shopping for a pocket juice:
- Capacity: This is measured in mAh (milliamp hours) and indicates how much charge the battery can hold. Higher capacity equals more charges for your devices. A 3000-5000 mAh capacity is good for 1-2 phone charges.
- Compatible devices: Make sure the output ports match the charging needs of your devices. Most pocket juice packs have a USB-A port for charging phones.
- Size and weight: In general, higher capacity means a larger and heavier unit. Consider your portable power needs vs desired pocketability.
- Extra features: Some pocket juice packs have built-in cables, LED flashlights, and other useful add-ons.
Charging up your pocket juice
Before its first use and after each subsequent discharge, you’ll need to recharge your pocket juice to full battery capacity. Here are some tips for charging pocket juice packs:
- Use the included cable and AC adapter. Avoid low amperage chargers.
- LED indicators will display charging status. Full charge may take 2-10 hours depending on capacity.
- Avoid overcharging once full. Most packs automatically stop charging when full.
- For maximum battery life, avoid completely draining the battery.
- Leaving a pocket juice dormant at full charge will slowly discharge the battery over time. Recharge every 1-2 months if unused.
Charging your devices
Charging your devices with a pocket juice pack is simple. Just follow these steps:
- Connect your device’s charging cable to the pocket juice.
- If the pocket juice has a power button, press it to begin charging.
- Charging status LEDs will indicate when charging has started.
- Once your device is fully charged, disconnect it from the pocket juice.
- Avoid leaving your device connected after it’s fully charged to conserve the pocket juice’s battery.
Most pocket juice batteries convert the 3.7V DC output internally to 5V DC for charging phones and tablets. Charging time will vary based on the amperage and capacity of the pack versus your device’s battery.
Pocket juice tips and maintenance
To keep your pocket juice performing at its best, follow these usage and maintenance guidelines:
- Avoid dropping or excessive impacts which can damage internal battery cells.
- Do not disassemble the pack or attempt repairs yourself.
- Use only the included charging cable and AC adapter.
- Don’t charge in extreme heat or cold environments.
- Avoid contact with liquids or excessive moisture.
- If storing long term, discharge to 40-50% charge and recharge every 2-3 months.
- With regular use, most packs will last 2-3 years before needing replacement.
Safety tips
While pocket juice packs are generally safe when used properly, be sure to follow these precautions:
- Use only manufacturer recommended power adapters for charging.
- Don’t attempt to open, puncture or damage the battery pack.
- Avoid charging unattended overnight.
- Don’t charge near flammable materials or on soft surfaces.
- Stop charging immediately if the pack overheats, leaks, expands or smells.
- Only use the pocket juice for its intended purpose of charging devices.
Be sure to carefully read allsafety instructions that come with your pocket juice. Stop using a pack if you notice any signs of damage or malfunction.
Other portable charging options
In addition to dedicated pocket juice packs, there are a few other portable power options to consider:
- Battery cases: Cases with built-in batteries that can charge your phone on the go.
- Solar chargers: Chargers that harness power from sunlight to charge devices.
- Car chargers: Chargers that plug into your vehicle’s 12V outlet to charge devices on the road.
- Portable solar panels: Foldable panels that charge a built-in battery pack from sunlight.
Each of these options has pros and cons to evaluate based on your specific charging needs. Pocket juice packs provide the most versatility for on-the-go charging.
Common questions
How many times can I recharge my pocket juice?
Most quality lithium-ion batteries in pocket juice packs can withstand 500-1000 full discharge/charge cycles before capacity begins diminishing. The total number depends on usage and care.
How do I know when it’s fully charged?
Charging indicator lights will typically display solid green when fully charged. Charging fully from empty takes 2-10 hours depending on capacity and adapter amperage.
What devices can I charge with pocket juice?
Nearly any device that charges via USB can be charged with a pocket juice pack. This includes smartphones, tablets, portable speakers, small cameras, Bluetooth headsets and more. Just use your device’s charging cable.
Is it OK to use while charging?
Yes, most devices can be safely used while charging from a pocket juice pack. However, this may increase the time required to fully recharge the device if it’s drawing power simultaneously.
Can I take it on an airplane?
Yes, pocket juice packs are allowed in carry-on luggage on most major airlines. Capacity is typically limited to 20,000-30,000 mAh. Be sure to check your airline’s regulations.
Conclusion
With the right pocket juice pack, you can stay powered up anywhere, anytime. Look for key features like sufficient capacity, compact design, and smart safety protections when shopping around. Follow the usage, charging, and maintenance tips provided here to get the most out of your pocket juice.