Having lost power due to the storm for, thankfully, just 20 hours or so, I was wondering if there is a gadget to operate an iPad off of AA batteries, not a rechargeable battery pack supply, the reviews of several seeming wanting. And why not an AA powered netbook too. Disasters get one to thinking. Thanks to all.

Unlikely. The iPad only runs off its own battery, even when it's being charged. Best bet is a UPS.

I agree with the UPS idea....however, in ths day and age of mobile devices, I fear that most people have forgotten what they actually are. UPS = uninterruptable power supply. They are good for using as backup power for your computer, good in the event of power outage (so you won't lose data you were working on and you can save and power down gracefully) and also for poweline problems like surges, drops, sags, spikes, etc.

Another way of powering your iPad during a power failure, if you don't have a generator, is one of those rechargeable emergency power packs that supplies a 110 volt supply through integral plug sockets.

Originally Posted by AQ_OC

I agree with the UPS idea....however, in ths day and age of mobile devices, I fear that most people have forgotten what they actually are. UPS = uninterruptable power supply. They are good for using as backup power for your computer, good in the event of power outage (so you won't lose data you were working on and you can save and power down gracefully) and also for poweline problems like surges, drops, sags, spikes, etc.

Good point AQ. They actually supply clean electricity in areas where surges and brown outs can damage electronics so they are ideal to use even when the power is on. When the power goes out they continue to supply power, and when the UPS dies you still have a fully charged laptop/iPad.

I have an emergency jump starter for my truck. This is a rechargeable pack that will jump start your vehicle. Mine also has an air compressor, a USB port, and a standard car electrical outlet.

The USB port is underpowered for the iPad (but will charger the iPhone nicely).

However, I can plug in the iPad's car charging kit to the electrical outlet (once upon a time cigaret lighter socket) and it works nicely.

It's bulky, but does multiple duty in all kinds of emergencies.


I also have a UPS on my computer. If I decide to be smart I'll turn off the computer and just use the iPad for emergencies. Or better yet the iPhone, considering how very little power it takes.

Why not just the car adapter in the car?

Originally Posted by Jdhiker

Why not just the car adapter in the car?

You may not be in the car at the time.

Originally Posted by Jdhiker

Why not just the car adapter in the car?

Cars are notorious couch hogs, and don't even get me started on blankets.

But other than that, you should probably consider them in your emergency planing.

I have a 350 cca battery jump starter pack that I'm going to use for a backup power supply.