[Elecraft] Re: KX1 xcvr batteries ???

[Wayne Burdick]

Dave-KK7SS wrote:

> "PowerEx Unveils Its Latest *2200mAh AA NiMH Batteries*!"
> 
> Might be of interest for the KX1 and similar gear
> I believe these are usually available from MAHA...

Hi Dave,

I think I've seen 2300 mAh, too, but I'm not sure where.

NiMH cells are great, especially from an environmental perspective, as they're
usable some 1000 times. 

Lately I've been using another type of cell: Energizer 1.5V AA lithiums (p/n
L91), available at high-end camping and camera stores (I'm not sure if Radio
Shack or other stores carry them yet). The higher voltage provides a bit more
power output than 1.25 V NiMH cells, and they have a rating of 2700 mAh so
they'll last longer. Like NiMH cells they have a flat discharge curve, holding
power output nearly constant for 90% or so of the charge. (Alkalines have a
sloping discharge that causes power output to gradually drop.) Lithium cells are
also very light--about half the weight of Alkalines. For details on these
batteries, see:

  http://data.energizer.com/batteryinfo/product_offerings/lithium/lithium.htm

The big disadvantage of the lithium cells is that they're about $2.50 each, and
not rechargeable. Still, this may be OK if your goal is to operate for 20-30
hours (an entire backpacking Field Day, for example) at the 1.5-watt level
without changing batteries.

73,
Wayne
N6KR