Growers, researchers and community members no longer have to leave their tech behind during field demonstrations or community outreach sessions. A new portable charging trailer, customized for the CAES Research division, can run presentations, access the internet, charge phones and other electronics, and even play Bluetooth radio. 

“Today’s agricultural world is digitally connected,” said Greg Goins, Ph.D., associate dean for research in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences. “The importance of connecting researchers to Cooperative Extension, students, and farmers cannot be overstated. This solar charging trailer allows us to work beyond the physical space at a pace consistent with the rest of everyday life – even when we’re in the field.” 

The trailer is equipped with two 55″ outdoor-rated screens, a 400-watt audio system, 10 USB ports and an HD media player for displaying both photo and video content. It can stream Bluetooth audio and can charge more than 60 cell phones simultaneously. The trailer is heated and cooled, and with 700 watts of solar power on the roof and 1260 amp-hour of battery storage, there is more than enough power to stream and charge all day

“This trailer is another example of our college’s participation in digital agriculture and artificial intelligence technologies on the farm,” Goins said. “In twenty-first century agriculture, we have charging capabilities for our cell phones and drones, and full video capability to offer presentations in the field.”

Users do not have to go inside the trailer to charge; they can use one of two external charging tables, each with its own solar panels to keep its USB and wireless pads, for charging cell phones power, charged.

“It’s the ultimate classroom, but it’s small enough that we can move it anywhere in Greensboro, or go down east, where there’s less broadband but more agriculture. It’s portable power on wheels. It’s a momentous day for North Carolina A&T.”