[Elecraft] K2 and internal battery

[Charles B. Wilber]

I have read what I could find on the Elecraft web site and in this group's
archives and am still confused about proper use and care of the K2's internal
battery. I know that some owners install a new jack on their K2s to bypass the
K2's built-in battery protection (a resistor and a diode?). However, I can't
imagine that Elecraft would design a radio or one of its accessories that
required modification in order to work properly.

I have two batteries for my K2 (both the Elecraft-supplied Power-Sonic models).
One was receoved from Elecraft less than a week ago. I have not been able to
charge either one to a voltage higher than 12.8 VDC yet. The original battery
eventually got to 12.8 volts. The new one stays at 12.7 volts even after the K2
has been charging for a couple days on my SEC-1223 power supply (rated for
13.8VDC @ 23 amps).

It seems that the battery must be charged at a voltage of 14.2 volts in order to
avoid lead sulfate deposits from accumulating on its plates. On the other hand,
I don't see any recommendations for chargers or power supplies that will provide
that voltage at the proper amperage without risk of overcharging the battery.
Also, I'd like to avoid buying a separate charger and power supply if possible.
My question is whether or not there is a charger or power supply available that
will power the K2 during home base use and also charge the battery properly when
it is not being used. I apologize for my ignorance of battery technology and I'd
appreciate any suggestions. Thanks!

73,
charlie
N1AOK