[Elecraft] K2 Battery Shelf Life - Resolution

[Darrell Bellerive]

Thanks to all who replied to my message. You have been a big help.

The battery appears to be in good health. This comes as a welcome relief
after reading in the KBT2 manual that the battery had a shelf life of
only one year.

Following the directions on the datasheet from the battery manufacturer,
the battery was charged until the 29 ma current flow was achieved. This
occurred at 14.2 volts, a bit lower than spec. Floating the charge at
13.80 volts for 24 hours resulted in a battery that will maintain a full
charge of over 12.9 volts after 4 hours without charge current. At 24
hours after charging the voltage was still 12.84 volts.

Perhaps some of the capacity has been lost, but for my occasional
battery operation of the K2 it should be fine.

Thanks again for all the help.

Darrell Bellerive
VE7CLA
K2 #1973


On Fri, 2004-01-23 at 20:24, Darrell Bellerive wrote:
> I am finally getting around to finishing my K2. The battery has not been
> installed in the K2 and has been sitting in it's box for the last 32
> months. The voltage reads 11.42 volts with my cheap Radio Shack DMM.
> 
> The battery is one supplied by Elecraft and is a Power Sonic Model
> PS-1229 12 Volt 2.9 Amp. Hr. with a sticker on top that reads 06060 or
> 09090 depending on one's perspective.
> 
> I would like some advise on what to do with the battery. Has it reached
> the end of it's shelf life? Should it just be replaced? Should I try to
> charge it and if so, what is the best way to charge it?
> 
> I have a Diawa PS-300 30 amp 12 volt power supply with variable voltage
> control. It is adjustable from about 11 to 15 volts. Can this be used to
> try to charge the battery? If so what is the recommended voltage and
> procedure.
> 
> Darrell
> VE7CLA
> K2 #1973
>