[Elecraft] KX3 interal battery charger

[JP O'Connor]

Thanks for that explanation, Ed. I have limited experience with the lead
acid battery systems, so I wasn't sure.

On those rare occasions when you do use internal batteries, remember the
alkalines limit you to 3W maximum and even then will have limited life.
Based on your anticipated usage plan, that may be enough. Be sure to remove
them right after your trip since they often leak. The Energizer Ultimate
Lithium, though much more expensive, will allow a bit higher output if you
wish, and will last a lot longer. Again, the best choice depends upon the
individual need.

A few folks have talked about the possibility of replacing the AA cell
holders and rigging their own internal battery pack with a higher density
power source. Given the limited space, it will be interesting to see what
creative solutions are found to provide internal power... and if any
provision is or can be made to recharge the pack without opening the radio.
We shall see!

72/73 de JP WF4Z

On Thu, Jul 5, 2012 at 2:37 PM, Edward R. Cole <kl7uw at acsalaska.net> wrote:

> JP WF4Z wrote:
> =snip
> If I am understanding correctly, a PbAcid (e.g. SLA) equalize charge
> operation does not have access to each cell and instead is an operation
> that uses a carefully controlled "overcharge" function, within the safe
> "operating envelope" of the battery, to bring up the lagging cells without
> damaging the stronger cells.
>
> It sounds like equalize and balance are two different operations, intended
> for different cell chemistry and charging styles.
> =snip
>
> Yes, the PbAcid battery bank at my former employment used a PS that
> had both float and equalize voltage settings (which were set to the
> specific brand-model per their specs).  Equalize raised charge
> voltage about 0.35v from float and was applied across all batteries
> as a bank and not each individually.
>
> Purpose of "balance" and "equalize" seems the same though
> accomplished differently (make all cells equal in voltage).
>
> Equalize had both voltage setting and charge timer so it would resume
> float at conclusion.  These are not cheap units!  We had one for 12v
> and one for 48v (master battery system for our UPS units).
>
> I do not expect to run internal batteries in my KX3 (except on a rare
> flight somewhere).  Probably just use AA alkaline's.  But opening the
> KX3 to change batteries is a delicate operation due to the flex and
> power wires.  I might opt to make a small gel-cell package with a
> power connector, instead.
>
> PS:  I made a makeshift mounting bracket for my KX3 that attaches to
> the 4-40 tapped holes used for the paddles (which I did not
> purchase).  Simple flat aluminum plate that I bent up 15-degrees to
> view the display directly.  Plate screws into my wooden radio
> shelfs.  I cut a 13/16 inch hole in the plate to "port" the speaker.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45
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