We have apps for everything. The world of apps have changed the way that we do business. They certainly have become an integral part of 3D filmmaking. I have an app for talent releases, one to assist with choosing lenses. There is an app for doing my storyboards. Even one to calculate the proper settings for my 3D space.
To run all these marvelous apps we have our smart devices. The modern smart device has evolved from a simple phone to a hybrid portable indispensable computer.
What does every smart device have in common?
The need for power!
If my iPhone or iPad go down, it could result in serious delays for my production. These power ravenous devices don’t care about schedules or shoot times. The more we come to rely on them the more often we need to charge them. As a 3D documentary filmmaker I can tell you first hand finding a power outlet in the middle of the Gobi desert or in the mountains of Western Mongolia is not too easy.
That where ReVIVE Solar Restore XL comes in. This amazing device not only charges smart devices, it does it fast. Add on an emergency LED light and you have a utility that an indie filmmaker can’t do without. The next problem is what do you do after charging? How do you keep the flow of power going? These guys at ReVIVE Solar Restore XL covered that by adding a solar panel. One thing that you have plenty of besides sand in the Gobi Desert is the sun!
Unexpected delays in flights, this jewel will keep you communicating even when those free charging stands at the airport are full. And with the nice big windows you have plenty of sunlight for recharging.
The kit comes with a few extras that I found useful. A carabiner, for hooking on to your belt. Suction cups and a clip on mount that allows you to hang it on your car window to charge.
The only downside that I ran into in my extensive testing was that a few times I pulled out the device and found the button for the LED flashlight had been pushed and drained the charger totally. I would love to see some kind of cover over the button to prevent that from happening. Overall, I give the ReVIVE Solar Restore XL a score of 9 out of 10!
By: Al Caudullo
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Copyright ©2012 Al Caudullo All rights reserved. The content and photos within may not be distributed electronically or copied mechanically without specific written permission. The content within is based upon information provided to the editor, which is believed to be reliable. Data within is subject to change. Al Caudullo is not responsible for errors or omissions.