The great advantage of battery-based power packs lies in the fact that they require no mechanically moving parts to produce electricity (which is unlike a conventional power generator that needs an engine to produce electrical current). Hence, these “power packs” truly are silent power generators in every sense. Another upside is that they also do not produce emissions that may be harmful to the environment while they are running. These are perhaps two of the top reasons why many prefer these types over varieties that make use of internal combustion engines like the usual gas or diesel gensets.
Xantrex Xpower Powerpack 1500 (Model 802-1500)
These things are basically designed for portability as that is probably why portable power supplies were invented: to be lightweight and portable enough that you can take them anywhere you want. The Xantrex XPower 1500 inverter pack is such a device and weighs approximately 60 lbs. This isn’t exactly featherweight but it is comparable to most portable generators in the same power output category (the 1600 watt Honda generator EU2000i weighs 54 lbs. at full tank but costs approximately 200% more!)
This power pack is good enough to provide enough power to run crucial household appliances like refrigerators, communication devices (phones, two-way radios), satellite dishes and radios, lamps and other lighting implements. And being a mobile unit that comes with its own durable pull/push cart, you can take it with you around while working and provide power for your work tools which include small carpentry tools and, for office workers, computers, laptops and any other computing devices.
Note that this unit, being equipped with a power inverter, can power both AC and DC type appliances (comes with receptacles for both), tools and gadgets so you’re definitely well-covered in case of a power outage. Of course, this isn’t only for backup power duties as it also shines when used for fun. Stash it inside your car’s trunk and bring it with you to the picnic grounds and have some fun with it!
You can recharge the battery by plugging it to a household socket or a solar panel charging setup which you could buy or put together yourself. (See: Looking to Learn How to Make a Solar Panel?)
For more information about the Xantrex Xpower Inverter Powerpack 1500, along with more technical details and buyer reviews, please check out this page.