May 7, 2007

One of the challenges most Windows Mobile device users face is that of battery life.  While it is true that battery life has dramatically improved over the past several years on Windows Mobile devices, it is clear that, when compared to feature phones or cellular phones, they still have a long way to go.  Today, most devices average around 6 hours of talk time with a standby time of a day.  This varies greatly by device and how the device is used.  As more-and-more users enable push technology on their devices, these times will shrink. 

Seeing this power challenge, especially to those who travel, PocketPCTechs has developed an extensive line of power accessories to keep you and your device going strong.  Most people know PocketPCTechs (http://www.pocketpctechs.com) for their outstanding memory upgrades as well as being the official support provider for i-mate devices here in North America.  In addition to these services, PocketPCTechs has an extensive line of accessories for a wide range of devices.  Recently, PocketPCTechs sent me their Lil' Sync Penguin charging device along with a Lil' Sync Pro cable to review.  Being one who travels almost weekly, I knew I would be able to run these accessories through a good test cycle and truly evaluate their usefulness.  Now, a few months later, the Lil' Sync's always are with me in my laptop bag!

The Lil' Sync Penguin is a multipurpose power adapter that can be connected to either an electrical outlet or to a cigarette-style 12v adapter in your car or on a plane.  The adapter gets its name from its penguin-like shape which PocketPCTechs has cleverly taken advantage of by labeling the outside of the adapter as if it is in a tuxedo (aka, a penguin suit).  As Catherine, my daughter and co-writer here at the site said upon seeing it, "Aw, how cute!"

Figure 1:  The Lil' Sync Penguin

Cuteness aside, the Lil' Sync Penguin works fantastically well.  The plugs for the electrical connection fold neatly into the back of the body of the adapter while the top is removed to exposes the 12v cigarette-style adapter.  On the front of the adapter is the USB port where you plug a USB cable to connect your device to the Lil' Sync Penguin.  In order for the Lil' Sync Penguin to charge your device you must use a USB synchronization cable that supports charging or your device must be able to be charged via USB.  You will need to verify with your device's manual to determine what your device supports.  For those who require a USB cable that supports charging, I will be covering the Lil' Sync Pro Cable later in this review.  Finally, just above the USB port is a green LED light.  This light is to let you know that the Lil' Sync is drawing power from it's electrical source, regardless if you are using the 12v adapter or A/C.  Remember that this light has nothing to do regarding your device's charging.  You will need to trust your device itself for that indicator light.

Figure 2:  The Hidden Away Electrical Plug

Figure 3:  USB Port and Power Light of The Lil' Sync Penguin

As I mentioned before, the Lil' Sync Penguin performs very well.  I have no problem using it in my car, on planes (thanks to most American Airlines aircraft having 12v power ports near most seats) and at home using the A/C plug.  The compact size is handy as well, especially when traveling.  Measuring in at only 4", it is compact enough to fit in any small pocket or case in your carrying bag or even in your pocket.  My only complaint about the Lil' Sync Penguin is the cap which covers the 12v cigarette-style connector.  I have a difficult time keeping it on the adapter when I have it in my carry bag and have all-but-abandoned it.  Understand that it does not impact the performance or use of the Lil' Sync Penguin as the cap is strictly a cosmetic piece.

Figure 4:  Lil' Sync Penguin & Lil' Sync Pro Cable in Action

For those who need a USB cable that will both synchronize and charge your Windows Mobile device, the Lil' Sync Pro Cable is an excellent choice.  The cable is rolled up around a round center with one end having a mini-USB connector and the other a standard USB connector.  To extend the cable simply pull on the adapters which will deploy the cable.  At full length, the cable is just shy of 3' in length, more than enough length for most users.  Keep in mind as well that the cable does not have to be fully extended.  As you pull the cable you will feel small clicks.  After each of these clicks, if you stop pulling, the cable will stop deploying.  Likewise, if you pull on it again, it will reverse the small clutch assembly in the center hub and allow the cable to retract.  Each of the clicks are spaced apart by about 1 foot in length.

Figure 5:  Lil' Sync Pro Cable

Figure 6:  Lil' Sync Pro Cable Deployed

To use the Lil' Sync Pro Cable, simply plug the USB connector into an available USB port on your PC - or the Lil' Sync Penguin reviewed above - while connecting your Windows Mobile device with the mini-USB plug.  Keep in mind that the USB port you plug into on your PC or laptop must be a powered USB port.  Once connected, you should see the charge light and indicator on your device showing that it is charging. 

Figure 7:  Lil' Sync Pro Cable In Action

Figure 8:  Charging Indicator on my O2 XDA Atom (Upper Right)

The Lil' Sync Pro Cable does not allow for rapid charging so the charging time will depend on your battery and device's design.  Below is a chart which indicates the charge times that I have experienced while using the Lil' Sync Pro Cable connected to various Windows Mobile devices and my Dell Latitude D610 laptop.  With each test, the battery in my Windows Mobile device was at "shutdown" state meaning the device would power itself off due to lack of battery power available.

As for overall performance, there is little to fault with the Lil' Sync Pro Cable.  The compact storage design, easy deployment and retraction and function are outstanding.  I have found this cable to be particularly handy in confined situations where you do not have the space for cables to be strewn everywhere.  In fact, as I write this review, I have the Lil' Sync connected to my laptop charging my O2 XDA Atom while on an American Airlines flight!

If you have additional charging needs beyond your Windows Mobile device's electrical adapter, the Lil' Sync Penguin and Lil' Sync Pro Cable could be good choices for you.  Their compact designs make them easy to carry and travel with while their performance are simply top-notch.

The Lil' Sync Penguin is available from the PocketPCTechs' website for $24.95 (US) while the Lil' Sync Pro Cable is $19.95 (US).  When you visit the PocketPCTechs website you will need to select your device manufacture and model to assure that you get the proper versions of these accessories for your device.  All purchases from PocketPCTechs are backed by a 30 day money back guarantee.

For more information on the full line of PocketPCTechs Lil' Sync accessories, visit http://www.pocketpctechs.com

Clinton Fitch, MVP-Mobile Devices
Clinton Fitch (Dot) Com!