> What I'd like to do is find a LiPo charger with 3.3 V DC output, a solar =
input, and
> as an option an external DC supply.  As I live in Oklahoma, I think the b=
iggest
> problems are keeping the LiPo in the proper temperature range, not a supp=
ly of
> sunlight.  However, I'd obviously like to keep things plunking along all =
night.
>=20
> My ideal system would include:
>=20
> (1)  3.3 VDC output.
> (2)  Solar input.
> (3)  DC input, say from a USB or wall-wart.
> (4)  A wide range of LiPo capacities.
> (5)  The ability to intelligently use (2, 3, 4) together such that it wil=
l take
> power from either (2) or (3), use the excess to charge (4), but will use
> combinations when (say) the sun is low but does provide SOME power, but n=
ot enough.
> That is, it will only augment solar with the LiPo when needed, otherwise =
it could
> run entirely off solar even if the LiPo is otherwise full.
> (6)  Some logic-level indication about the power source, or if the LiPo i=
s being
> drained, charged, or is "idle."
> (7)  A logic-level indication about the charge on the LiPo.
>=20
> I know, a long list of desires.
>=20
> Anyone know of such a beast, ideally one I can buy rather than build?
>  Exploding LiPo does not smell good in the back yard.

Check out the energy harvesting chips from Linear Technology. They have bee=
n doing some weird and wonderful things in this area. While looking at ener=
gy harvesting ideas, Microchip have some devices for this as well.


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