A UK-based energy company has developed a portable fuel cell that can be used to power digital music players, mobile phones and other portable electronic devices.

Voller's ABC cell is a 100W portable fuel cell system packaged so that it is easy to carry and use anywhere, even underground.

It is available in two different AC voltages; either 110V or 230V and both variants have both a 12VDC output and a USB charging port, meaning that a number of devices such as Apple's iPod music player, can be easily plugged into it.

The unit, which is the size of a handbag, also has a frost sensor which enables the user to use it in below freezing conditions.

A serial port allows the system to be checked for statistics and fuel level reporting.

Developing low temperature fuel cells for portable devices has become a key market for the technology.

Earlier this year, Johnson Matthey Fuel Cells, signed an agreement with one of the world's leading fuel cell membrane developers for the development of portable fuel cells.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd