A system for a battery powerable portable computer with keyboard input that extends the battery charge lifetime during time periods when the computer is being operated in a battery powered mode comprising the combination of a battery providing power to the computer, a keyboard providing input to the computer through user keystrokes, apparatus operatively associated with each of a set of keys in the keyboard for converting the mechanical motion respectively applied to each of the set of keys during keystrokes to generate an electrical current, and an electrical connector for applying the electrical current to charge said battery. The apparatus for converting the mechanical motion to generate an electrical current should include at least one electrical generator.