Supercapacitors: the power source of the future
At SODAQ, our mission is to develop and produce devices that offer exceptional longevity. In our relentless pursuit of this goal, we have explored a groundbreaking solution: the implementation of supercapacitors in place of conventional batteries. Unlike batteries that inevitably deteriorate over time, supercapacitors exhibit remarkable resilience, experiencing minimal degradation. Remarkably, manufacturers assert that supercapacitors can undergo charging and discharging cycles up to an astounding 10,000 times, while batteries typically struggle to surpass a mere 500 to 600 cycles.
Moreover, although supercapacitors possess the same physical volume as batteries, they have a lower capacity (low energy density). However, this is precisely where SODAQ excels in leveraging our concept of “do more with less.” Combining this capability with the extraordinary endurance of supercapacitors, we firmly believe they are the unrivaled choice for envisioning a more sustainable future in the development of IoT devices.
The advantages of using supercapacitors
As previously mentioned, one of the most notable advantages of utilizing supercapacitors is their exceptional resistance to degradation over time, leading to an extended lifespan. Moreover, supercapacitors exhibit a broader temperature tolerance range when compared to batteries. Typically, batteries encounter difficulties such as faster degradation or a higher risk of damage when charging above 40 degrees Celsius and become less efficient in freezing temperatures. This sensitivity to temperature is especially evident in electric cars, which experience reduced performance during winter. In contrast, supercapacitors effortlessly handle charging and discharging processes even at extreme temperatures, ranging from as high as 60 degrees to as low as -20 degrees Celsius.
Another important feature of supercapacitors is their ability to handle peak currents, which are significantly higher than those of smaller batteries with a lower capacity. They can also be charged and discharged at a much faster rate. This high charging rate translates into a considerably reduced charging time. For instance, with the SODAQ Stealth, the charging time is only ten minutes, and once fully charged, it can last for up to six months. Just two years ago, this achievement was not feasible due to the high self-discharge rate of supercapacitors. However, with the advent of the new generation of hybrid supercapacitors it is now possible to create devices that can operate for six months without the need for recharging.
“The ultimate goal in developing World Friendly IoT devices is to make devices that keep working for many years. Batteries have always been the weakest link in this process. So, by replacing the batteries with supercaps we can finally make devices that last.”
It is true that supercapacitors are more expensive than batteries, and this cost factor is one of the reasons why their adoption rate is not as fast as desired. However, in our perspective, the decision to choose batteries should not be solely based on cost. Instead, we should prioritize safety and the environment as the driving force behind phasing out batteries altogether. At SODAQ, we are committed to aligning with this perspective and actively working towards this goal through the development of our devices.
SODAQ products with a supercapacitor
Initially, SODAQ’s TRACK Extreme incorporated both a battery and a supercapacitor, creating what we refer to as a hybrid power system. This design allowed our customers to enjoy the benefits of both worlds. For instance, the device could operate effectively in higher temperature ranges while still offering a high capacity. The inclusion of the supercapacitor became necessary as the battery alone proved insufficient for wide temperature variations. However, as our development progressed, we discovered that the battery was, in fact, unnecessary altogether.
In contrast, the SODAQ AIR, Locator One and the Inclinometer were the first products to solely rely on supercapacitors, and this configuration has proven highly successful. Particularly, the Locator One, for which we have produced substantial quantities, has yielded outstanding results. This achievement has instilled in us the confidence that supercapacitors truly represent the future of power sources.
Most recently, another remarkable SODAQ product incorporating a supercapacitor is the SODAQ Stealth, our rechargeable Smart Label. Thanks to this integration, these labels boast an impressive targeted lifespan of 10 years.
Conclusion
The future of supercapacitor usage remains uncertain, and only time will reveal its true potential. However, we firmly believe that our products make a meaningful contribution to this evolving landscape by helping to reduce pricing through bulk purchases. Our hope is that an increasing number of individuals and organizations will join us in making the same choice, embracing the advantages of supercapacitors for a more world-friendly IoT future.
If you would like to learn more about our devices or explore opportunities with supercapacitor-powered products, we invite you to contact us at sales@sodaq.com. Our team will be delighted to provide further information and assist you in any way possible. Together, we can drive positive change and pave the way for a greener and more efficient world.
