The Pull Cord Generator (PCG) is a handheld human-powered generator that keeps portable electronic devices running anywhere--free and independent of traditional power sources.

To operate, one holds the PCG in the palm of one hand, pulls the chord with the other hand, and generates instant energy.

A minute of pulling generates energy equivalent to:

• 20 minutes of mobile phone talk time
• One hour of Ultrabright LED light
• Three hours iPod Shuffle play time
• 35 shots on a Nikon D70 SLR camera

www.potenco.com

It was created by Potenco by award-winning MIT and Stanford engineers to power lights, mobile phones, and portable electronics, in addition to water purification and emergency communication devices.

Performance Specs
Compact: 2.5 x 3.25 inches (cylindrical)
Lightweight: 14 ounces
Quiet: 59 dB at 1 foot, <50 dB at 5 feet
Efficient 20W peak average power
Rugged: Dust, drop, and water resistant
Load Adjustment: Smart adaptive loading adjusts to your fitness and energy level
Drive: Direct Drive, no gears (reduces complexity and risk of failure)
Ergonomic: Can be operated using a range of muscle groups
Other: Field-repairable, minimal internal parts

Potenco’s mission is to make clean power universally accessible and immediately useful. The first application of Potenco’s pull-cord generator (PCG) will power the $100 Laptop from One Laptop per Child (www.laptop.org).

Founded in 2006, Potenco is a spin out of Squid Labs and today is a privately-held company based in Alameda, California.