It never fails. You’re expecting an important phone call and your cell phone dies. With no electrical outlet in sight, what to do? Imagine using the power of the sun to power all your important electronic devices! USB solar chargers provide portable power for people on the go. Great for camping, hiking or road trips, these handy devices may also be a lifesaver in case of an emergency.

Gadget lovers are sure to appreciate the portability and convenience of USB solar chargers. The bulky and costly solar chargers are being replaced by smaller and more affordable models.

For those that are interested in solar chargers, I have compilied a list of seven different chargers for you to peruse through.

1. Sun Drive  -  Earlier this month, ZyRUS unveiled its new compact USB solar charger called the Sun Drive. The portable gadget is designed to work with mobile devices, MP3 players, digital cameras and other USB devices. One full charge provides up to 90 to 100 minutes of continuous talk time. Measuring approximately 2 ½ by 1 inches, two different versions will be offered. One version includes 4GB of internal memory and will retail for $31. The second, less expensive version does not include internal memory and is expected to retail for around $23.
    
2. KODAK Solar Charger KS100-C+2 - This new product from Eastman Kodak (NYSE:EK) will charge USB devices including iPods and iPhones. Two AA rechargeable batteries fit snugly inside the charger and a handsome solar panel is located on one side. The KS100 C+2 can be charged by plugging into a computer’s USB port, direct sunlight or other light source. KODAK’s Solar Charger will roll out in September and will retail under $40.
    
3. Solio Hybrid Chargers – Solio offers several different award-winning chargers in a variety of shapes, colors and price points. The chargers are not only weather-resistant and light-weight, but are attractive as well. Power your gadget by using the power of the sun or use the power from the “wall.” The products are made from recycled materials and are carbon neutral. Solio includes a high-capacity internal rechargable battery, various adapter tips and warranty. The Hybrids power iPods, cell phones, MP3 players, PDAs, GPS devices and digital cameras.
    
4. Kinesis K3 Portable Wind and Solar Charger – Using this handy 3-in-1 tribrid device, you can power your electronic gadgets via  the sun, wind or AC wall plug.   The unit collects and stores power in the internal rechargeable Lithium Ion battery. The K3 charges all sorts of gadgets including MP3 players, PDAs, portable gaming devices, GPS units, Bluetooth headsets, digital cameras and mobile devices. The device, which measures about 3 x 9 x 3 inches, can stand up, lay flat or hang up. The durable unit includes a LED level indicator button, AC adapter, USB cable, storage bag, tips and quick-start guide. A handy storage area is hidden inside the device for adapter tips. The unit is available in black or green, and retails for $100.
    
5. SolarMonkey Solar Charger – Power all your portable gadgets using this foldable device from PowerTraveller. The attractive SolarMonkey can be opened or closed.  Open up the device to reveal the two folding protective solar panels. Besides direct sunlight, the device also works with incandescent lighting.   Although the SolarMonkey does not store power, a SolarNut is also provided with the unit. The SolarNut is a small battery that stores power and can be used as a stand-alone charger. SolarMonkey includes a Velcro strap, travel pouch, storage case and tips.  The product retails for under $60. The company also offers a more expensive option, the SolarGorilla,that charges laptops and notebook computers.
    
6. Thanko – This USB Solar Charger, from Thanko, charges mobile phones and digital cameras. The charger has a solar panel on the backside of the device, includes a six-month warranty, and retails for around $20. In case of a cloudy day, just plug it into the USB port and you are good to go!
    
7. DIY Solar Charger – Learn how to make your own portable, flexible USB Solar Charger by recycling parts from solar outdoor lamps, wires, a USB connector and plastic baseball card sleeve.