[Elecraft] KX1 on AAAs or Lithium Polymer?

[Nick]

I would be really interested in the 8 triple A's NiMH with a charge 
controller.
This with a an extra backpanel would make it easy to choose between time and 
power.

73
Nick
PAØNCV






> We've located a 4-AAA cell battery holder that would fit inside the KX1 
> (one at each end of the bottom cover, as with the present AA holders). 8 
> cells would provide 10 or 12 volts, giving you significantly more power 
> output than 6 of the same cells (as much as 4 watts). The tradeoff would 
> be in battery life. AAA-size NiMH, alkaline and lithium cells provide 
> around 1000 to 1250 mA-hours, or around half as much as similar 
> high-capacity AA cells.
>
> Another option would be to use a small lithium polymer battery. 11 volts 
> at up to 1450 mA-hours or so might be possible, although these batteries 
> are very expensive. AAAs might be preferable in a pinch because you can 
> buy them anywhere. In the field, you can borrow triple-As from flashlights 
> or other portable electronic devices. The difference in weight between 8 
> triple As and a LiPo battery is probably only couple of ounces, so weight 
> is not likely to be the primary criteria.
>
> You'd probably get five to eight hours of casual operation with NiMH, 
> LiPo, or lithium cells, which are preferable to alkalines because of their 
> flat discharge curve. Of course you could recharge NiMH or LiPo cells in 
> the field with a small solar panel. (Has anyone tried using 8 AAA cells 
> with the KX1?)
>
> We could (in theory) create a new bottom cover option for the KX1 that 
> would include two 4-cell AAA holders or a LiPo battery, plus a charge 
> controller that would run from the KX1's DC input jack. The battery 
> holders and charge controller components could be soldered to a thin PCB 
> module that runs the full length of the bottom cover. In the case of AAAs, 
> we'd include a switch to select rechargeable or non-rechargeable 
> batteries. You might be able to recharge while operating, although this 
> would have to be tested, since some charge controller generate significant 
> noise.
>
> Any input on such a product would be appreciated. If there were 
> significant interest, we'd try to have it ready early next year.
>
> 73,
> Wayne
> N6KR
>

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