MIDLAND 248XL CONTINUED

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In the end of September Midland informed us that their model CB radio Midland 248XL was discontinued, due to a shortage of components.
But now they have good news, the factory was able to locate the ‘hard-to-get’ components and can do one more production run. End of march 2016 this new production will be available again.

TRAVELLING MAKES YOU RICHER

Travelling for private or for business, it always costs you money. But if you look around on this planet , when on the road,  you will be at least one experience richer when you are back home again.

End of October Avera-Distributing participated in the A+A Show in Dusseldorf. This is a show about safety at work. Here we showed the new Gearkeeper line of Tool Tethering products.

plaatjeDuring A+A tradeshow a video crew came it to make a promo video

During the show we made a video about the new GearKeeper solutions for tool tethering. We hope to be able to show this video very soon.

SAFETY AT WORK
The A+A show is about safety at work. It was my first time to do this show and I was surprised by the large number of manufacturers of fall protection, flash lights, (safety)shoes, boots and an unbelievable number of producers of gloves.

TOP GLOVE
Our ‘neighbour’ across the aisle was the company Top Glove from Malaysia. They are the largest manufacturer of gloves and produce 44.000.000.000 pairs of gloves this year.

In their booth they had a plasma screen and all day long the promo video of the company was shown. The video ended with the corporate song.
During 4 days of A+A show I must have heard this song over 300 times.

In The Netherlands we are too much individuals to appreciate a corporate song. But maybe I am too much on the road to be still an original Dutch guy. I loved the song and the idea behind it.

Click HERE to see the youtube video of the corporate song.

CORPORATE VIDEO
For those who are interested in the complete corporate video of the Top Glove company, click HERE.

AVERA-DISTRIBUTING CORPORATE SONG
Travelling is enriching and inspiring, so I hope that very soon we will have an Avera-Distributing corporate song. If you are a composer or writer feel free to send your ideas for such a song.

Keep singing when you are ‘on the road again’.

MIDLAND H5: FIRST OF NEW GENERATION OF ACTION CAMERAS

Recently Midland introduced the first model of a new generation of action cameras. The new H5 looks more like a GoPro, the leader in the market of action cameras.

1Midland H5 Camera with yellow cover, also a black cover is included
in the standard packing.

After the multi-year experience in this sector with the XTC models designed with a longitudinal shape, Midland presents the brand new H line, characterized by a frontal form factor, that completes the range of action cameras and covers all possible uses, such as the requirements of sportsmen or enthusiast of outdoor activities.

H5 offers a lot for very little! Its small dimensions and its ease of use make H5 the perfect solution for your leisure time or a daily use.

Its form factor allows it to be easily worn for example on your chest.
Midland H5 guarantees high performances: Full HD 30fps with a sensor able to take top quality pictures up to 12MP; the built-in Wi-Fi allows to watch and share your photos and videos, thanks to the dedicated APP iSmart DV, compatible with iOS or Android.

2The integrated 1.5 inch LCD display allows to frame or watch your videos and photos without the need of a smartphone or tablet.

The H5 is fitted with many innovative functions: self-timer (you can select the time delay to shoot a photo), Time-lapse, photo burst (to take 3/5/10 photos per second), Motion detection (the camera automatically starts recording when a movement is detected).

Besides, H5 continuously records and when the card is full, it records over the oldest videos; it is also equipped with the Slow Motion mode to watch the videos in rallenty.

H5 is supplied in a full optional packaging including 20 accessories to combine and create the best mounting solution for your requirements.

3Midland H5 in submersible case

H5 is fitted with 140° wide angle and image stabilizer for excellent shoots, even for your extreme adventures!

4all items included in the packing

PACKING INCLUDES:
1 Pc of H5 Action Camera.
1 Pc of Interchangeable Front Cover (Yellow or Black).
1 Pc of Submersible Case up to 30m.
1 Pc of Handlebar Mount.
1 Pc of Helmet Mount.
1 Pc of Ventilated Helmet Bandages.
1 Set of Tethers.
1 Pc of USB Cable.
1 Pc of Lens Cloth.
1 Pc of Li-Ion 900mAh Battery.
Supports, Adaptors for different Fixing Systems.

AVAILABLE ACCESSORIES:

Many accessories from the XTC series can also be used for the new H5 camera. This a list of Midland accessories.
XTC Chest Mount = Chest Mount.
XT POD-MINI = Monopod Mount 18 cm.
XT POD-2S = Telescopic Multicam 2-Section Monopod 80 cm.
XT POD-3S = Telescopic Multicam 3-Section Monopod 112 cm.
XTC Mount = XTC Mount for Handlebars and Tubes.
XTC Cap Mount = Cap Mount.
XTC Mount = Universal Mount for Rifles.
XTC Tree Mount
XTC Bow Mount
C980.01 = XTC SUCTION CUP MOUNT – Suction Mount for Cars.
C1042 = RAM Roll Bar Mount.
C1041 = RAM Magnetic Mount.
C1052 = RAM Moto Quad Mount.
C1067 = Memory Card 8GB.
C1067.01 = Memory Card 16GB.
C1067.02 = Memory Card 32GB.

In the world of electronics it is not always the best product that wins a race. The Midland XTC series is great in performance and price. But the look was different from action camera market leader GoPro. I think that is why Midland is starting with this new look but still the better quality supplied.

The Midland H5 is available from stock at Avera-Distributing.

NEW MIDLAND BLUETOOTH WIRELESS ACCESSORIES FOR PORTABLE RADIO’S

Using a portable radio is ‘handy’. Using a portable radio with audio accessories like a speaker/mike, headset etc. is even more ‘handy’. Less ‘handy’ are the cables that you need to connect an audio accessory with the portable radio.

Wireless Bluetooth applications are very popular for cell phone use and on (motor)bikes or when skiing. Bluetooth for use in combination with portable radio’s like PMR446 is getting more popular now.

Midland recently introduced 6 new products in their WA (Wireless Accessories) range. Midland’s new “WA” range of Wireless Accessories can be used with any Midland wireless transceiver (fitted with a 2-pin socket). All devices come with a rechargeable lithium battery, with a USB cable for charging.

The WA range includes:

Bluetooth adapter; WA-DONGLE for 2-pin radio’s, including Kenwood. Plug the WA-Dongle into your transceiver and choose from various headsets of the WA range to suit your needs.

There are 2 types of dongles available, for radios with a:
• 2-Pin Audio accessory jack with ‘Standard’ wiring
• 2-Pin Audio accessory jack with ‘Kenwood’ wiring

Bluetooth headsets; WA21/WA31/WA29.
Each headset features a small PTT button. WA headsets can be used with all mobile phones with Bluetooth function.

Wireless PTT; WA-PTT
Combined with a WA-Dongle, it allows you to transmit hands free without having to use the PTT button on the headsets.

Link / Photo / Short Description of the available Wireless Accessories items:

CTE C1199 = WA-DONGLE

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WA-Dongle, Bluetooth Adapter suitable for Midland 2-Pin Transceivers.

CTE C1199.01 = WA-DONGLE-K

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WA-Dongle, Bluetooth Adapter suitable for Kenwood 2-Pin Transceivers.

CTE C1200 = WA-PTT

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BlueTooth, Wireless PTT suitable for WA-DONGLE.

CTE C1201 = WA21

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BlueTooth, Ear Hook Earphone, In-Line Clip Microphone, In-Line PTT (Suitable for WA-Dongle) and Control Box with Clip.

CTE C1202 = WA31
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BlueTooth, Pneumatic Earphone with Air Tube, In-Line Clip Microphone, In-Line PTT (Suitable for WA-Dongle) and Control Box with Clip.

CTE C1203 = WA29

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BlueTooth, Behind the Neck Earphone, Boom Microphone, Spiral Wire with In-Line PTT (suitable for WA-Dongle) and Control Box with Clip.

Schematic use of possibilities of new Midland WA-series:

7With this new Midland WA-series the use of BlueTooth audio accessories is possible for many types of portable radio’s.

All items are available from stock at Avera-Distributing,
Actual pricing on our website, check the links in this Blog.

TOOL TETHERS: GEAR KEEPER’S UNIQUE POLYURETHANE ELASTIC CORE OFFERS 250% STRETCH FOR STRESS-FREE SAFETY.

Untitled-1We like to share a BLOG from GearKeeper.

Ergonomically constructed personal tool tethers are the key to maximizing worker productivity, convenience, safety and compliance. For heavy tools up to 11,3 Kg (25 pounds), Gear Keeper’s ergonomic anchored tool tether series is unique because it has been designed with a low-force polyurethane elastic core that has a 1:3 stretch factor (i.e. 90 cm (3’) relaxed – 270 cm (9’) extended. As a result, the new Gear Keeper polyurethane elastic core tethers have the shortest retracted length combined with the longest extension length offering significantly more stretch and retraction than competitive bungee-type core tethers.

The ability of Gear Keeper’s polyurethane elastic to retract to one-third of its extended length is a compelling safety advantage. The reduced length helps to avoid entanglement issues when climbing or working in close quarters. Additionally, to protect against dangerous ‘drop shock’, the new Gear Keeper heavy-tool tethers are load tested with a built-in safety margin beyond the breaking point.

Both of Gear Keeper’s new TL1-4021 and the TL1-4025 anchored tethers, with their polyurethane elastic cores, employ a very low stretch force. This minimizes arm fatigue at full extension, while still providing the proper degree of comfortable recoil. Employees will find their work more convenient and will appreciate the significant reduction in arm-stress. The ultimate result will be higher employee compliance with your tethering program.

The model TL1-4021 (€ 46,99) specifications include 2,54 cm (1”) tether webbing and two stainless steel carabiners load rated above 500 kgs (1100 + lbs.) with gates that do not hang up from a side load. It has a retracted length of 104 cm (41”) and extended length of 300 cm (118”).

The model TL-4025 (€ 42,99) specifications also includes a 2,54 cm (1”) tether webbing but has one stainless steel carabiner and a fixed web tool attachment loop. It has a retracted length of 127 cm (50”) and and extended length of 300 cm (118”). Both models are of an adequate length to attach to buckets.

For more information about the new Gear Keeper Tethers — or any of the companyʼs other innovative tethering products, the full line of Gear Keeper’s tool and instrument tethers, lanyards and accessories call
Avera-Distributing The Netherlands +31 76 596 3820.
You may also visit www.gearkeeper.com or www.gearkeeper.eu

SMART PHONE/GPS HOLDERS FOR MOTORBIKES by MIDLAND

1Hard case mounted on handlebar of motor bike

Over a year ago Midland introduced 9 motorbike holders for smart phone or GPS. Now Midland added 2 more versions, one for iPhone-6 and one for iPhone-6Plus.

Read what Midland has to say about these items:

“Starting from today fixing your smartphone or your GPS on the handlebar of your ‘two wheels’ won’t be a problem anymore!

Midland introduces a new complete line of water resistant holders to protect your devices – your travelling companions! – from rain, mud and dust.

Either you have a GPS or a smartphone it doesn’t matter: Midland places at your disposal 11 different models!

All these models are supplied with a water resistant holder and two different fixing systems for tubular and non-tubular handlebars included in the packaging.

The only universal fixing systems on the market!

The holders are made of sturdy material and the wide display is touch screen, to allow the use of your devices during your ridings and in any weather condition!

Untitled-5handlebar mounting kit

Their installation on the handlebar is very simple thanks to the supplied adjustable bracket that can be rotated 360°, so that the screen is always at your visual angle”.

SPECIFICATIONS:
• Water Resistant Touchscreen Holder
• Adjustable, rotating up to 360 degrees
• For all kind of Handlebars, 2 different brackets
o One for tubular
o One for non-tubular handlebars
• Shock resistant
• Touch Screen
• Recharge while Using

On the Avera website you can find these 11 types of motorbike holders:

MK-GPS35 for GPS of 8,9 cm (3.5 inch)
MK-GPS43 for GPS of 10,9 cm (4.3 inch)
MK-GPS550 for GPS of 12,7 cm (5 inch) 
MK-GPS6 for GPS 15,2 cm (6 inch) 
MK-SMARTPHONE for universal applications 
MK-GALAXY NOTE 
MK-IPHONE4 
MK-IPHONE5 
MK-SMART HC 
MK-HC IPHONE6 
MK-HC IPHONE6PLUS 

For those riding any kind of (motor)bike these holders can be a valuable protection of their GPS or smartphone.

PALOMAR HIGH POWER REPLACEMENT FINAL AMPLIFIER

Under the name POWERBAND, the company PALOMAR in USA sells a line of
4 types of high power replacement final amplifier sections with high performance low pass filter for 10 meter amateur transceivers.

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After RFX75 and RFX150 they now introduce the RFX85 and RFX85HD.

RFX75

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RFX75 is an Amplifier, 75 – 100 Watt PEP Output Power, RF Final Output Stage and Low Pass Filter, Designed as a replacement and/or upgrade for most 10 meter amateur transceivers.

The RFX75 is a RF final output stage and low pass filter designed as a replacement and/or upgrade for most 10-meter amateur transceivers.
The RFX75 features the latest Power MOSFET technology and a built in S-meter detection circuit.
The output power of the RFX75 varies depending on the transceiver that it is installed on. Most installations will see 75 – 100 watts PEP output power.

THEORY OF OPERATION OF POWERBAND TYPES, DESCRIPTION OF RFX75:

a) The RFX75 replaces the transceiver’s final amplifier stage and low pass filter section.
The RFX75 is NOT a standalone amplifier. The RFX75 mounts to the back of most transceivers with little or no modification to the transceiver’s chassis.

b) Once installed, the transmitted RF signal from the output of the transceiver’s driver stage (or pre-driver stage) is sent to the RFX75 via the coaxial cable marked RF IN.

c) The driver signal is then amplified through the RFX75‘s ERF2030 (FET1) and then again through the ERF7530 (FET2).

d) The amplified signal from the ERF7530 passes through the RFX75’s efficient low pass filter.

e) A small portion of the signal is sampled through C19 and rectified through D3 and D4. This is sent to the S-meter detection circuit in the transceiver through the yellow wire.

f) The final RF output signal of the RFX75 is sent back to the radio through the RF OUT coaxial cable where it is connected with the transceiver’s antenna connector*.

g) The incoming receive signal is sampled from C14 and connected to the receive strip of the transceiver through the RFX75’s coaxial cable marked RX OUT.

* It is possible to attach the RF OUT coax directly to the antenna connector. However, it is recommended to attach it to the transceiver’s PCB because some transceivers come equipped with antenna warning systems, or other circuits, that are on ancillary boards between the recommended connection point and the antenna connector.

RFX150

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RFX85 and RFX85HD

There are now 2 RFX85 Choices: the Standard RFX85 and the New RFX85HD High Drive.

The RFX85 Circuit includes driver stage, final amplifer stage and low pass filter. The RFX85 is your choice for 10 meter radio repairs and upgrades that require replacing the radio’s driver and final amplification stages.

The RFX85HD circuit includes only the final amplifier stage and low pass filter which makes for a much quicker and easier installation.

The RFX85HD is your choice for 10 meter radio repairs and upgrades when all your replacing is the final transistor or no transistors.

Both RFX85 units feature the new fan-ready heatsink design and variable bias controls for better tuning on SSB radio installations.

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RFX85

RFX85 SPECIFICATIONS:
– Maximum Output: 100 Watts PEP.
– Drive Stage: ERF2030 MOSFET (x1).
– Final Stage: ERF7530 MOSFET (x1).
– Low Pass Filter: 3 Stage.
– Spurious Emission Suppression: 45 dB.
– Supply Voltage: 13.8 VDC.
– Power Consumption: 12 Amps Max.
– Dimensions: 5.1 x 8.3 x 4.2 cm (LxWxH).
– Weight: 235 gram.

5RFX85HD

RFX85HD SPECIFICATIONS:
– Maximum Input: 30 Watts PEP.
– Maximum Ouput: 100 Watts PEP.
– Final Stage: ERF7530 MOSFET (x1).
– Low Pass Filter: 3 Stage.
– Spurious Emission Suppression: 45 dB.
– Supply Voltage: 13.8 VDC.
– Power Consumption: 12 Amps Max.
– Dimensions: 5.1 x 8.3 x 4.2 cm (LxWxH).
– Weight: 235 gram.

It is necessarily to have good technical knowledge to install RFX types.
In USA these amplifiers are very popular and on the internet you can find many videos and reviews.
That might help to be prepared when installing the first RFX.

Here are some links, but many more can be found:

For many radios the installation instructions have been published on the following website:
www.cbtricks.com:80/miscellaneous/accessories/power_band/rfx_75/index.htm

LINK(S) TO VIDEO OF THIS PRODUCT:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=esDX2lVRTb0feature=related

All 4 models are available at Avera Distributing

NEW RT4 SERIES GEAR KEEPER® WITH CARABINER CLIP GIVES NEW ALTERNATIVE FOR TACTICAL AND MILITARY PERSONNEL

Custom Aluminum Carabiner Keeps Items On Your Person,
Secure and Accessible
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RT4 model with Carabiner Clip and Q/C-1 connection.

In an effort to offer the widest range of attachment options to fit the wide variety of tactical and military personnel needs, Hammerhead Industries introduces the new RT4 Series Gear Keeper featuring a Carabiner Clip, a general mounting system designed so you can grab your gear, use it, and know it will retract back into place until you need it next.
Perfect for tethering all types of necessary tactical gear from GPS handheld units to flashlights, the RT4 Series with Carabiner Clip comes in a variety of retraction force options and extension lengths for whatever gear you need to keep close and accessible on your next mission.

The new custom aluminum Carabiner is integrated into the mount and designed to have a short extension allowing you to keep your gear as close to your person as possible when stored. This helps to keep gear from clattering around, and maintaining a quiet presence, important when in the field. The lightweight aluminum is extremely strong and has a wide opening for easy attachment to a large D-ring or a belt loop.

Designed like other Gear Keeper products to be as durable as possible in some of the most severe environments, the RT4 Series’ retractable mount has a patented flushing system that clears sand and debris from the unit. It is also salt-water proof and features a patented Q/C Connector System, which provides for quick and easy connection/disconnection of gear.

The retractable line is constructed of high tensile Spectra/Nylon and coupled with stainless steel spring hardware all in a high-impact casing. All this makes for a device that boasts superior overall integrity and will be able to take knock after knock in the field.

Available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different size and weight gear.
The Model RT4-0040 has a retraction force of 85 gram (3 oz.) and extends to 91 cm (36 inch) ideal for lighter items. Model RT4-0061 has a retraction force of 170 gram (6 oz.) and also extends to 91 cm (36 inch) perfect for a small tactical light.
The RT4-0064 has retraction force of 255 gram (9 oz.) enough for a GPS unit and extends to 81 cm (32 inch).
Finally, the brand new RT4-0065 has a retraction force of 453 gram (16 oz.) and extends to 56 cm (22 inch) for even heavier items.

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RT4-4465 for the Fire Fighters market with larger Q/C-2 connection,
Retractie 453 gram.

In addition to the Carabiner attachment, RT4 Series Gear Keeper general mount is also available in other mounting options including a threaded stud mount, a Velcro strap mount, and a heavy duty snap clip.

The original Geer Keeper system was engineered specifically for SCUBA diving literally born out of a need to secure items in situations when hands are otherwise occupied. Gear Keeper systems are now available in more than 3,000 configuration options and used in applications from law enforcement, military and hiking to fishing, hunting and trucking.

For more information about the new RT4 Series Gear Keeper with Carabiner, or other Gear Keeper Products contact the European sales office at Avera-Distributing in The Netherlands.

VISITING KINDERDIJK – NOT ONLY DUTCH WINDMILLS

This week we paid a family visit to Kinderdijk. UNESCO gave this place a World Heritage status. There are 19 old typical Dutch windmills to see and visit.

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But stopping for a cup of coffee at the local restaurant Buena Vista gave us also a radio surprise. The owner of this restaurant showed a nice collection of antique broadcast receivers.

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In the restaurant a nice collection of broadcast radio receivers.

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Of course I also want to show some photos of this unique place with the typical Dutch Windmills that for many years made sure we had dry feet and were not flooded by the water.

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Kinderdijk windmills: unique & iconic water management
A significant part of Holland is situated up to approximately 7 meters below sea level. The Dutch don’t notice any of this though, because an incredibly innovative and intricate system keeps the ever-rising seawater from flooding the land. Even during spring tide, the Dutch are safely guarded from being washed away…

The most important aspect of UNESCO World Heritage Kinderdijk is undoubtedly the unique collection of 19 authentic windmills, which are considered a Dutch icon throughout the entire world. A wonderful and unforgettable day trip in the Netherlands for the entire family!

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For more information visit the Kinderdijk website at:
https://www.kinderdijk.com

NEW FROM PRESIDENT “MULTI PACK BOOSTERS”

MIDLAND ENERJUMP

In my blog from January 25-2015, I wrote about a new product from Midland, the ENERJUMP.

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Midland ENERJUMP

You can find detailed information about the ENERJUMP on our website.

Basicly the ENERJUMP is a kind of PowerBank. If you visit a trade show in USA or Far East you will notice that PowerBanks are hot business.

Everyone wants to make them and they all want to sell these.


PRESIDENT

We all know President from their famous line of CB products. Not often they step outside their core business. But now they do as they introduce three types of PowerBanks. These are not just a PowerBank, these are Portable Power and Roadside Assistance Kits.


MULTI-PACK BOOSTERS

There are 3 models available:

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• MPB6000

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• MPB8800

 

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• MPB12000

Basicly the three kits are identical. It is a PowerBank to jumpstart a car, it includes a flashlight and it allows you to charge electronic devices.

 

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Charging Electronic Devices and Flashlight

But the President Multi-Pack Booster also includes a compressor !

The difference in the 3 models is the capacity of the battery, which is the heart of each PowerBank.

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Jumpstart of a car with a President MPB12000

If used to jumpstart a car all three models will deliver a peak of maximum 400 Ampere! But the total capacity of the battery pack inside the Powerbank is different for these 3 models.
• MPB6000 has a capacity of 6000 mAh
• MPB8000 has a capacity of 8800 mAh
• MPB12000 has a capacity of 12000 mAh.


COMPRESSOR

 

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Compressor with meter

The compressor allows you to inflate the tires of your car, or the tubes of a bike, or an inflatable boat. If you need an item to fill it with air you can use the MPB to
inflate that product.


CARRY CASE

All three models are sold in a handy carry case. It will allow you to keep all items together in one tool box.


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MPB comes in a handy tool case


COMPLETE SET

President MULTI-PACK BOOSTERS come complete with the jumper cables to charge the car battery. But also an USB Charging Cable, 12VDC cable and 230VAC wall charger are included.

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All cables are included

Certainly during vacation time it is a safe feeling to know that you have a PowerBank in your car. Just in case your battery or phone/tablet is dead. Or if you want to assist someone who needs help.

I remember when my kids were small and each summer I had to inflate boats, tires, air-mattresses etc. I inflated so much I got dizzy now and then. If there ever come grandchildren I will have a Multi-Pack Booster quite close, I better use my breath for talking.

To all of my readers: I hope you will enjoy your vacation time and the summer!