Samsung’s latest fuel cell prototype proves again that soldiers get the coolest toys
Back in 2006, a bright-eyed Samsung pledged a simple, methanol-powered dock that could power a laptop for a whole month, promised availability by the end of 2007, and then ran off to look for unicorns. Three years on an older, wiser Samsung is making some rather more modest statements about its latest generation of DMFC (Direct Methanol Fuel Cell), now set for release in 2010 — only for the military. But, trendy requisition officers will have their choice of three colors: black, gold, or black. This 3.5 kilogram device is said to provide 1,800 watt-hours without a recharge, enough to power all a soldier’s mil-spec gadgetry for three days. That’s a far cry from the 30 days promised a few years back, but far better than the 10 kilograms of batteries you’d need otherwise. Want to get your hands on one of these? Start by heading to your local recruiter’s office — and don’t mind the giant human microwave.
