mPowerpad, world’s first all-in-one portable solar charger, shipping in January 2012

Nov. 1, 2011 - PRLog -- Singapore-based company Third Wave Power Pte Ltd announced its new offering, mPowerpad, the world’s first multi-function, portable solar device that can power up digital devices and is equipped with essential functions for users operating away from the power grid like AM/FM/SW radio, reading light, flashlight and ultrasonic insect repellent. mPowerpad launches this week at the Clean Energy Expo Asia 2011 in Singapore, 1-3 November (Booth F05, Suntec City).

Compact, rugged and lightweight, mPowerpad takes less than 6 hours to fully charge under direct sunlight. Through two USB ports, mPowerpad is capable of charging many types of devices and gadgets such as mobile phones, smartphones, tablets and cameras. With a 2500mAh battery capacity, it can fully charge up an iPhone – as quickly and efficiently as from an AC/DC outlet – while simultaneously providing reading light, radio and insect repellant for 4-5 hours.

Third Wave Power, which is backed by commercial incubator Small World Group and Singapore’s National Research Foundation, expects mPowerpad to begin shipping in early January next year, with a recommended retail price of US$80 per unit.

“mPowerpad is designed for people who often travel to remote places and need a serious solution to keep their gadgets and equipment up and running,” said VS Hariharan, Co-founder of Third Wave Power. “Other solar chargers in the market do not have more than one or two functions, or they lack durability and reliability. mPowerpad, however, delivers an affordable, sustainable boost to productivity, and benefits outdoor enthusiasts, professionals and households with no ready access to electricity.” Formerly from Hewlett-Packard Company, Hariharan has been involved in scaling many new and emerging businesses throughout his 20-year career, as well as building go-to-market engines for consumer and business products.

Unique gesture-based UI

mPowerpad features a unique gesture-based user interface that requires no button, knob or dial to operate the device. With no moving mechanical parts that could break down from manual wear and tear, and being water, dust- and drop-resistant, mPowerpad is built to withstand harsh weather and terrain conditions.

Said Lim Chuin Kiat, Co-founder of Third Wave Power, “mPowerpad has been designed for ultimate ease-of-use. With a built-in accelerometer, functions are activated by simple motions of tilting or turning the device. Anyone in the world – regardless of culture, literacy or education – will find mPowerpad extremely easy to use.”  Formerly from Hewlett-Packard Company, Chuin Kiat holds eight US patents for inventions relating to printers, scanners and battery power management. Like Hariharan, he has been involved in scaling many product businesses.

For more info and to get hands-on with mPowerpad, visit Third Wave Power at Clean Energy Expo Asia 2011, Suntec City Singapore, Booth F05, 1-3 November or visit www.thirdwavepower.com.

About Third Wave Power Pte Ltd
Third Wave Power aims to empower people around the world by improving lives and increasing productivity. Incorporated in 2011 and based in Singapore, the company develops affordable and innovative renewable power solutions that serve portable energy needs in both urban and rural areas. Third Wave Power products are designed based on customers’ needs and are made to perform and last in the environments they are used in. The company is backed by commercial incubator Small World Group and Singapore’s National Research Foundation. Third Wave Power was honored at the recent Techventure 2011 event, winning the “Most Eco-friendly Start-up” award. For more information, visit www.thirdwavepower.com.

VS Hariharan, Co-Founder
Hariharan brings more than 20 years’ experience from the information technology industry. In Hewlett-Packard Company and Wipro Infotech, he was in general management roles as well as senior positions in sales and marketing. Hari has extensive experience in product marketing as well as building go-to-market engines for consumer and business products. Throughout his career, he has also been involved in scaling many new and emerging businesses.

Lim Chuin Kiat, Co-Founder
With more than 20 years’ experience in the information technology industry, Chuin Kiat oversaw research & development department and was also in senior management roles in Hewlett-Packard Company, Dell and Venture Corporation. He holds eight US patents for inventions relating to printers, scanners and battery power management. Chuin Kiat has also been involved in scaling many product businesses.


About the Investors

Small World Group Incubator
Small World Group Incubator (SWGI) regularly provides seed funding, mentoring and help to start and grow small companies. SWGI operates under the National Research Foundation’s (NRF) Technology Incubation Scheme in Singapore. SWGI focuses on three areas of technology innovation – clean tech, optical systems and advanced materials. For more information, visit www.smallworldgroup.com

The National Research Foundation
The National Research Foundation seeks to strengthen Singapore’s R&D capabilities, encourage greater innovation and nurture the growth of technology-based enterprises in Singapore. This will help Singapore to remain competitive and create high value jobs and prosperity for Singaporeans. For more information, visit www.nrf.gov.sg/nrf.

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