Ben Heck demonstrates hand-crank phone charger

While smartphones have grown incredibly powerful, we are still suffering from inadequate batteries. We can buy larger extended batteries or scatter chargers around town, but that's no way to live. Hacker Benjamin J. Heckendorn presents an interesting solution.

In the video below, Heckendorn (aka Ben Heck) demonstrates his hand-crank powered charger on his HTC EVO 4G. He stripped down the crank from a rechargeable flashlight, and then retooled it to send 5 volts of power through a mini-USB cable.

While the charger was built for Heckendorn's EVO 4G, the model could be used on most any smartphone. Not only will you be making a 'green' effort, but you might get a workout in the process. Use proper caution: if you don't know what you're doing, just use your wall charger.

Heckendorn is the author of Benheck.com, and is the creator of consumer accessories like the AudioFX 5+1 Headset, and the one-handed Access Controller for the PS2, XBOX 360, and PC.

source: benheckdotcom (YouTube) via GigaOM