[Elecraft] KPA100 power source

[Steve Jackson]

I have had excellent luck, for a long time, running a
small switching supply across a gel-cell.  

An example of such a supply is the 13A unit advertised
by these folks:

http://stores.ebay.com/ALTech-Electronics

with whom I have no affiliation.

Perhaps I'm making this seem too easy, since I have a
large quantity of the gel-cell batteries needed for
the purpose! (domestic Elecrafters can get a pair for
$20 postpaid in the loawer 48)

Generally, I 'float' the two batteries in parallel. 
The supply can be adjusted to 13.9V as is desirable
for this application.  A bonus is the ability to run
at reduced output in the event of AC failure.

I put the whole michigas into a small
(hamfest-sourced) hardsided carry-case, with the power
input (a standard IEC connector) and output (fused
Anderson PowerPole) available on the side panel. 
Neat, and the weight is under 10 lbs for a portable
supply easily able to run a 100W class HF rig.

Cost:  about $50 --
~$25 for the supply, ~$20 for the batteries, ~$5 for
the case, fuse, and connectors.

Cheap is my favorite part!  ;-)

Steve KZ1X/4




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